17 WSM might be worth tryin if you want the most powerful commonly available rimfire.
I got a Marlin 783 22 mag with a little 1-4x20 on it for fast action and short range thump. Wouldn't mind a lever, pump or auto in 22 mag though.
I'm sure the 17HMR trumps it for small critters at extended range, and is probably a bit quieter to shoot.
But I made my choice and lucked into a bunch of 22 mag ammo on sale.
17 HMR ammo seems to always be available though, even when the 22LR and 22mag was in short supply. So that might be something to consider.
