Help deciding on new bolt action (17hmr or 22lr)?

Since you already have a .22LR I would recommend a second rimfire in either .22Mag or .17HMR.

Deciding on those two becomes the hard part. You mentioned the possibilty of shooting gophers in the future which the 17HMR is perfect for. Wind does effect the little .17 bullet a bit more than the .22; but if its windy, who enjoys shooting in a gale anyways (unless you are in a scheduled competition). Besides, when it gets really windy, the gophers stay below ground a lot, they are smarter than we give credit.

The 17HMR will require a good cleaning regiment to remain accurate (unlike the .22LR which is pretty tolerant) I cant say about the .22Mag as I do not own one.....yet.

As for the heavy barrel question, if you plan to shoot it offhand the sporter barrel is better but if mostly from a bipod or bags then more mass is more better. Not necessarily make the gun more accurate but can help the shooter be more stable.
 
surfclod said:
As for the heavy barrel question, if you plan to shoot it offhand the sporter barrel is better but if mostly from a bipod or bags then more mass is more better. Not necessarily make the gun more accurate but can help the shooter be more stable.
Click to expand...

^ well said.
 
Sako quad is a very light rifle that your wife will love. Nice and light if it needs to be carried on a hunt. Interchangeable barrels if you want to change calibres. Should be able to find a used quad in synthetic for about 800. Used barrel will run about 250. They are a little pricey, but worth it. I just picked up a used quad at a dealer for 1350 tax in. It came with a case, burris quad scope, and 4 interchangeable barrels. (22lr, 22wmg, 17hmr, and 17mach2)

My 12 year old shoots a 17hmr bv17ss heavy barrel at a hundred yards and takes the eyes out of zombies. This rifle is quite a bit heavier. But really, most rim fire rifles aren't too heavy.

Good luck and happy rifle hunting.

GF
 
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