TB,
The 17HMR is certanly not my first choice for predators but within 60 yards and with properly placed shots it will kill very effictively, however I do agree with the guys that for around the same money you can pick up a more forgiving caliber and extend your effective range considerably.
I would also like to interject the fact that I killed 22 coyotes, 19 fox and 12 badger this last season with the 17HMR, however I did have to track one coyote and had to dig 2 badger out of holes as a result of trying to stretch out the range of this caliber.
My advice: Savage varmint models, Remington 700 serise or for a lot less denero NEF and I would stick with the .22 cal stuff. With time you will evolve to what you realy want to shoot.
If you want fur friendly : .17 Remington,19 Calhoon, Tact20 are all good choices but are concidered wildcat calibers.
I like the Tact20, Blaine Eddy likes the 17 remington. Both are top shelf.
sly
I wish I could write as well as I talk
<FONT COLOR="#800080" SIZE="1">[ 07-20-2003 19:15: Message edited by: Slydog ]</font>