Everything has it give and take. Low to moderate powered springers shoot quite a bit flatter in .177 than .22 versions in same and make range estimation less of a issue. But .22 do kill more better.
Magnum springers are heavier, harder to cock, and have more recoil but do throw .22 pellets at very pleasing speeds.
I've had quite few springers and their use revolves around hunting.
I have a Marksman Model 72 .20 that would be the last to go. It is a re-badged R9 and about as good a blend of power,weight, ease of cocking, and flat shooting that I have experienced in a springer.
The suggestion of a R9 was a good one. I'd recommend considering the .20 caliber as a good compromise between the speed/flat shooting of the 177 and more whack of the .22 when compared in the same power plants.
.
