Choosing the Best Caliber for Hunting Weasels: A Comprehensive Comparison
From .22 LR to .204 Ruger, find the perfect caliber for your next weasel hunt.
When it comes to hunting weasels, choosing the right caliber can feel like picking the perfect tool from a Swiss Army knife. Do you go small and quiet, or fast and precise? With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Fear not, because we’re breaking down the pros and cons of the most popular calibers for hunting these elusive critters.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | .22 LR | .17 HMR | .22 WMR | .223 Rem | .204 Ruger |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effective Range The maximum range at which the caliber maintains accuracy and lethality for small game like weasels. |
50 yards | 150 yards | 125 yards | 300 yards | 400 yards |
| Muzzle Velocity The speed of the bullet as it exits the barrel, measured in feet per second (fps). |
1,200 fps | 2,550 fps | 2,000 fps | 3,200 fps | 4,200 fps |
| Noise Level How loud the caliber is, which can impact stealth and hunting in populated areas. |
Low | Moderate | Moderate | High | High |
| Ammo Cost The average cost of ammunition per round. |
$0.10 | $0.25 | $0.20 | $0.50 | $0.75 |
| Recoil The amount of kickback experienced when firing. |
Minimal | Minimal | Minimal | Moderate | Moderate |
.22 LR
The .22 LR is a classic small-game caliber known for its affordability and low noise. It’s perfect for close-range hunting and has been a favorite among hunters for decades.
Pros
- Affordable ammo
- Low noise
- Minimal recoil
- Widely available
Cons
- Limited range
- Less effective at longer distances
Interesting Fact: The .22 LR is so quiet that it’s often used for backyard pest control.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting weasels at close range and want a budget-friendly option.
.17 HMR
The .17 HMR offers higher velocity and better accuracy than the .22 LR, making it ideal for medium-range shots. It’s a great choice for hunters who need precision.
Pros
- High velocity
- Flat trajectory
- Great for medium-range shots
Cons
- More expensive ammo
- Slightly louder than .22 LR
Interesting Fact: The .17 HMR was developed in 2002, making it one of the newer calibers on this list.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a balance of range and accuracy without breaking the bank.
.22 WMR
The .22 WMR is a step up from the .22 LR, offering more power and range. It’s a versatile option for hunters who want a bit more punch.
Pros
- Increased power
- Better range than .22 LR
- Affordable
Cons
- Louder than .22 LR
- Not as flat-shooting as .17 HMR
Interesting Fact: The .22 WMR is also known as the .22 Magnum, but don’t let the name fool you—it’s still a rimfire cartridge.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need a versatile caliber that can handle small game at medium ranges.
.223 Rem
The .223 Rem is a high-powered option that’s overkill for weasels but offers unmatched range and precision. It’s great for hunters who also target larger varmints.
Pros
- Excellent range
- High accuracy
- Versatile for larger varmints
Cons
- Expensive ammo
- High noise
- Overpowered for weasels
Interesting Fact: The .223 Rem is the civilian version of the 5.56 NATO, a popular military cartridge.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a multi-purpose caliber for small and medium-sized game.
.204 Ruger
The .204 Ruger is a speed demon, offering incredible velocity and flat trajectories. It’s perfect for long-range shots on small game.
Pros
- Blazing fast velocity
- Flat trajectory
- Ideal for long-range shots
Cons
- Expensive ammo
- High noise
- Overkill for close-range weasels
Interesting Fact: The .204 Ruger is one of the fastest commercially available cartridges, with speeds exceeding 4,000 fps.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting weasels in open terrain and need long-range precision.
Conclusion
Choosing the right caliber for hunting weasels depends on your specific needs, whether it’s affordability, range, or precision. From the budget-friendly .22 LR to the high-speed .204 Ruger, each caliber brings unique advantages to the table. Consider your hunting style and terrain to make the best choice.