.17 hmr for squirrels??

[doepee]

Been asking about scopes for a 10/22 but I do have a marlin .17 hmr that is scoped for varmints... the least fps I can get for the .17 is around 2300 fps ..My question is would this be a good squirrel gun or does everyone think it has to much power??

[redarrow]

Aim for the head and you will be fine.

[bird]

Aim for the head and you will be fine.

x2.... unless you don't plan on eating them!

[doepee]

I have a box of fmj cci's for small game they are the ones rated at 2300 fps which would still demolish a squirrels head    At the moment it is sighted in with hornady v-max varmint rated at 2550 fps.. I think that might be a little much

[hookedspur]

They are a fine squirrel gun I use one for still hunting and a 17 mk2 when I use a dog .

[mcgruff1533]

Aim for the head and you will be fine.

I do the same with my .22 Magnum using Hornady 30 gr V-max bullets.      Headshots only, and no damage to useable meat.

[870BkWht]

I shot one 2 falls ago with a Hornady V-Max and I was shooting off hand and shot the squirrel about midways in the body.  I still managed to get the front and back legs, but the middle of the body was GONE !!

[catdaddy]

17 or a 22 mag is way over kill for squirrels.  Stick with a 22 long rifle

[Stoner]

Only take head shots as mentioned above. I use to use a Rem. 5mm rimfire for squirrels and it would take the head clean off and never damaged the meat. It will make you a better shot and better hunter.

[pcgobbler]

17 or a 22 mag is way over kill for squirrels.  Stick with a 22 long rifle

x2,  I usually aim for the middle of the body, as my eyes arent very good, and my 22LR is not scoped.

[drenalinld]

The brain is the best part of those tree rats! It is overkill, but if you like it, smoke em.

[lightsoutcalls]

My buddy shoots a .17 for squirrels with good success.  As has been mentioned, head shots only if you want to eat them.  He had equally good results on a 120+ pound hog with his .17.  He drilled that hog behind the ear from about 40 yards... drop and flop.