What would you guys say is better for just for shooting pests nothing serious, Bolt or Auto loading?
I was looking at a ruger 10 22 but i dont know if I might want a a bolt action, what would you guys get ifyou were on a bit of a budget (about $300)

Cant go wrong with a 10/22. I know that if i would have been using my bolt action i wouldnt have had enough time for a follow up shot to drop that fox, and even with groundhogs. I love the chance to make a quick followup shot!

Generally speaking I don't like Autos but that's just mypreference. However, the 10-22 is a very well made gun and will do just fine for what you're looking for. I don't own one but have shot many of them. Jamming seems to be their biggest problem.

IF IT WAS ME, I would go w/a Marlin 981T. It'll only cost you about $150 at walmart (if your local walmart sells them) and that leaves you $150 for a nice scope, rings and a whole lot of shells to shoot up.

http://www.marlinfirearms.com/Firearms/BoltAction22/981T.aspx

I've used both a Ruger 10/22 and a Marlin semi-auto for the last 20 odd years. But, the next .22 that i buy will be a good bolt action. They jam much less often even when using cheap rounds and they make one more inclined to make the first shot count. But, if you are pretty conscientious about cleaning your rifle after every use and using good quality ammo, the 10/22 will serve you well.

I was also looking at a one of the savage Mark II's, how do those compare to a Ruger 10/22?

price will be abit steep but also consider a marlin 39A lever action. They can be had for $300-450 usually new or like new and you will have a new family heirloom(sp?) that will last for generations.

Here's a second vote for the Marlin 39A I have two, one is about 30 years old (my dad's) and mine which is about 10 years old (39AS Gold) and both of them will shoot anything you shove down the tube with incredible accuracy. I didn't mention it before because its a little higher priced than what I think you're looking for and you were trying to decide between a bolt and an auto. But since it was brought up, it has my vote!

Yeah the marlin 39A looks like a nice gun but it's out of my price range, but Im not sure weather to get a semi or bolt, a bolt 17 hmr is also an option, you guys think they would beany betterfor gophers?

I think the 17 hmr is a little more accurate than a .22 in most cases. But you are looking for a little more in cost of ammo. If you're just gonna be plinkin' around and shooting chipmunks and such I'd just buy the .22. If you were going to get more serious into shooting gophers and such then go ahead and get the 17 hmr. (my preference is in abolt of either)

Just my 2cents.

im going with the ruger 10/22. thats what i shot untill i got my .17