[HockaLouis]

Originally Posted by Gonzilla

What range are you going to be shooting ? If 150 yds & under, the 22 Mag is cheaper with less noise so you can continue to shoot.

The undisputed King of Varmiters is the 22-250 which will really extend your reach. But there is nothing wrong w 223 as long as you get a 1:7 twist to stabilize the heavier 77 gr & up.

Mea Culpa, 1:7 is assuming you want the maximize range of 223 or are into long range shooting. On FTF it is best to never "assume" anything. Savage offers a tgt model w this twist. Most varmit rds for 223 are 55 gr or less and 1:12 Twist is optimum. There are compromises in the 1:8 or 1:9 range.

The round rarely mentioned is the .243 and it can double as a Deer rifle.

+1 .22 Mag is "the 125 yard gun."

[jpattersonnh]

.223, unless you are in a rimfire only area. In those areas the .22WMR and .17HMR both have there places. I use a .308HB for a varmint gun at times. 120gr handloads shoot well. For a .223, I really like the CZ527. It has a 1:9 twist heavy 24" barrel. Plenty for up to 65gr that I've shot, rated for 75gr. It is so accurate it is kinda boring. It has a CIP chamber, so Nato 5.56 is no issue. If you want to make a statement, it does it flawlessly.

[sctimber97]

Groundhogs, coyotes, muskrats, and other varmint that need to parish. They could be at ranges of 10yds up to 300yds. So I think I am going to go with the savage 25 lightweight varminter in .223. I use my .22lr for the 50yds and under. I might get it at Cabelas tomorrow depending on price. THANKS!!

[Dillinger]

Originally Posted by sctimber97

Groundhogs, coyotes, muskrats, and other varmint that need to parish. They could be at ranges of 10yds up to 300yds. So I think I am going to go with the savage 25 lightweight varminter in .223. I use my .22lr for the 50yds and under. I might get it at Cabelas tomorrow depending on price. THANKS!!

I think with your criteria here your plans are in order with what the collective would recommend to you here. The .223/5.56 is a fine round for close, short and mid ranges, so you will have no problem with an ethical kill, which is very important to the membership here.

Good luck and please report back with your review.

JD