Glamdring,
Let us know what type of terrian you're hunting. I heard some time ago that smaller bullets (.17 to 22) are affected by thermal levels when shooting long distances where there might be dips or gullies when shooting long distances. I use a 12 gauge 1187 with 000 buck out to 50 yards and a 22-250 out to about 300 yards here in the midwest. Got to be careful not to shoot the coyote dogs. (Walker hounds)