i like the 17hmr. its fast and as you said flat shooting. it is devistating on small game like gophers and crows. it will take yotes with a proper placed shot and with in a respectiable distance.100 yards or less. niether caliber is suited for hunting yotes but both will get the job done. if you check out www.rimfirecentral.com there are lots of topics on this compairison.