.17 hmr
#2
RE: .17 hmr
There are a lot of manufacturers out there, and a lot of opinions. I own a Ruger .17 HMR in target grey. I put a 4x12x40 Leupold on it, and preforms very well. Depending on the maker and what scope you want to fork out, it can cost you between $500-900 for great preformers. I have even seen customized target/varminting guns up to $1400, which is a little steep for me. Ruger, Savage, Sako, Remington, etc etc are some great rigs to think about, and all have somewhat different styles, comforts, colors, and weights.. I would try to actually handle the guns first if you can, and depending on usage, that can determine heavy barrel from a light. Length of barrel, weight of rifle without scope, and maneuverability. I shoot ground squirrels everydays, and have used the .17 hmr to take out badgers, gophers, and even a couple of coyotes( under 120 yards with head shots). I haven't had a problem with the Ruger at all, in terms of performance, maintenance, and accuracy. Shop around, and choose what is comfortable to you.
#4
RE: .17 hmr
I agree with Browning, the heavy barrel Marlin bolt action is a great gun for the price.
I'm just curious, have you had trouble knocking down coons with stuff smaller than a .17. We always used a regular .22, often with shorts.
I'm just curious, have you had trouble knocking down coons with stuff smaller than a .17. We always used a regular .22, often with shorts.
#5
RE: .17 hmr
i have shot both the savage and the remington. the remington is a semi, so you might not be able to hunt with it in your state. the savage is sweet too. its my roommates but i have put more rounds through it then he did. I killed about 6-7 groundhogs and a pheasant with it. shots ranged from 10 feet to 212 yards with most being around 50-60. this gun is a laser with a large bipod and a bushnell 6-24x scope. the whole outfit cost about 400 bucks and is worth every penny. The remington is just as sweet. I have only hunted with it once and killed a crow at over 100 yards while leaning against a tree. i think you will be happy with any .17 and i can't wait to get my own!
#9
Join Date: Sep 2004
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Posts: 1,345
RE: .17 hmr
Do you hunt with dogs? If so, may I ask why you want to move up from the .22lr? I'm not hate'n on the 17 it'll certainly do the job and do it well. But the 22 is dirt cheap to shoot and is all I ever needed for even the biggest sows. (We had dogs though, so all we "needed" to do was knock'em out and enjoy the show)