I have been using a Ruger 77/17 since 2004. Where I use it I’m required to use Non-Tox (the 15.5 gr) exclusively. Fox hunting and whistle pigs is where this rifle shines. It’s taken skunks, raccoons, woodchucks, 13ers, and coyotes. Of all the fox taken over the years I have never had one run off. The same can not be said for coyotes! This past winter I had 4 DRT’s and 4 run off’s. Placement is soooo critical. I had a 165yd shot that dropped right in the tracks, and last week I had an 85yd shot that ran back to the den with a light blood trail.
If I go out exclusively for coyote I will take my .243, but when managing small critters, I love the flexibility if the 17 HMR.
