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For the last two years in a row I think I've killed more groundhogs with a .17HMR than all of my centerfires put together. Most of this is short range - between 35 and 125 yards and strictly nuisance control work. There is no shortage of groundhogs where I live. I've shot them out of small trees, in flower gardens, fence rows, around barn foundations, and of course in hayfields. I've found the .17HMR to be perfect for this kind of work. They drop on the spot and I rarely get a bullet exit with the Federal ammo I've been using. This pic is of one that I killed early in the season.
Same 'hog viewed from the side with the headline; Hummer Hazardous to Health.
I save the centerfires for longer ranges in hayfields farther away from people. I'm using mostly a semi-custom 17MachIV these days.
One of the things I like best about the .17's is being able to see the bullet impact through the scope. Makes for a good show and provides self-spotting capability.

Same 'hog viewed from the side with the headline; Hummer Hazardous to Health.

I save the centerfires for longer ranges in hayfields farther away from people. I'm using mostly a semi-custom 17MachIV these days.

One of the things I like best about the .17's is being able to see the bullet impact through the scope. Makes for a good show and provides self-spotting capability.