Best Calibers for Hunting Badgers: A Comprehensive Comparison
From .22 LR to .243 Win, discover the best calibers for taking on these feisty burrowers.
Choosing the right caliber for hunting badgers can be a real head-scratcher. These tough little critters are known for their resilience and burrowing habits, making shot placement and caliber selection critical. Whether you’re targeting badgers for pest control or fur harvesting, selecting the appropriate caliber can make or break your hunt.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | .22 LR | .22 Magnum | .223 Rem | .243 Win | .17 HMR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effective Range The maximum range at which the caliber is effective for hunting badgers. |
50 yards | 125 yards | 300 yards | 400 yards | 150 yards |
| Recoil The amount of felt recoil when firing the caliber. |
Minimal | Low | Moderate | Moderate | Minimal |
| Ammo Cost The average cost of ammunition per round. |
$0.10 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $1.00 | $0.30 |
| Stopping Power The ability of the caliber to humanely dispatch a badger. |
Low | Moderate | High | Very High | Moderate |
| Noise Level The loudness of the shot, which may affect nearby wildlife or neighbors. |
Quiet | Moderate | Loud | Very Loud | Moderate |
.22 LR
.22 LR is a classic rimfire cartridge known for its affordability and versatility. It’s often used for small game hunting and pest control, making it a popular choice for badgers at close range.
Pros
- Affordable ammo
- Minimal recoil
- Quiet shot
Cons
- Limited stopping power
- Short effective range
- Not ideal for larger badgers
Interesting Fact: The .22 LR has been around since 1887 and remains one of the most widely used calibers in the world.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need a budget-friendly option for close-range pest control.
.22 Magnum
.22 Magnum offers more power and range than the .22 LR, making it a step up for small game hunting. It’s a great choice for badgers when you need a bit more punch without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Better range and power than .22 LR
- Low recoil
- Affordable ammo
Cons
- Still limited stopping power for larger badgers
- Moderate noise level
Interesting Fact: Despite its name, the .22 Magnum isn’t interchangeable with .22 LR—it requires a different chamber.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a versatile rimfire option with more range and power than .22 LR.
.223 Rem
.223 Rem is a high-velocity centerfire cartridge popular for varmint hunting. Its flat trajectory and stopping power make it ideal for badgers at longer ranges.
Pros
- Excellent stopping power
- Flat trajectory
- Effective at longer ranges
Cons
- Louder report
- Moderate recoil
- More expensive ammo
Interesting Fact: The .223 Rem is the civilian version of the 5.56 NATO round used by military forces worldwide.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need a reliable caliber for badgers at medium to long ranges.
.243 Win
.243 Win is a versatile hunting caliber that bridges the gap between small and medium game. With its high velocity and energy, it’s overkill for badgers but ensures a clean, humane kill.
Pros
- Exceptional stopping power
- Long effective range
- Versatile for other game
Cons
- Expensive ammo
- Louder report
- Overkill for badgers
Interesting Fact: The .243 Win is often recommended as a beginner’s deer hunting caliber due to its manageable recoil.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a caliber that can handle badgers and larger game species.
.17 HMR
.17 HMR is a lightweight, high-speed rimfire cartridge known for its precision. It’s perfect for badgers at moderate ranges, offering a flat trajectory and minimal recoil.
Pros
- Flat trajectory
- Minimal recoil
- Moderate range
Cons
- Limited stopping power for larger badgers
- More expensive than .22 LR
Interesting Fact: The .17 HMR was developed in 2002, making it one of the newer calibers on the market.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need a precise, low-recoil option for badgers at moderate ranges.
Conclusion
Choosing the right caliber for hunting badgers depends on your priorities: budget, range, stopping power, and versatility. From the affordable .22 LR to the powerful .243 Win, each caliber has its strengths and weaknesses. Consider your hunting environment and goals to make the best choice.