Quote:
Originally Posted by DannyB1954
22 mag and 17HMR are not exactly inexpensive ammo. Almost the cost of center fire. The performance over good lr ammo isn't that great. I would go 223. or 9mm carbine.
|
17HMR and 22mag ammo isn't remotely close to center fire ammo price and they both at least double the energy and more like triple or quadruple the range of a 22lr.
In most cases, 223 ammo is at least close to double the cost of HMR ammo. $12-$14/50 versus minimum of roughly $20-22/50.
The "next step" above 22lr depends on how big of a step you want to take. The HMR quadruples the ranges, adds minimal noise and essentially no recoil. Stepping up to center fire of just about any variety gives you at least 10x or more the range and can add anywhere from very little to extreme recoil.
As much as I personally have zero interest in .223, it is incredibly popular, low recoil, available everywhere, low priced to premium ammo and almost endless firearms options from single shot break open to semi-auto (full auto if you've got $$$$ and time). If cost of shooting while maintaining options for real precision and long range is a priority, .223Rem is the answer, particularly when you're talking about a beginner.