The Best Calibers for Hunting Beaver: A Comprehensive Comparison
Choosing the right caliber for hunting beaver made simple.
When it comes to hunting beaver, choosing the right caliber can feel like solving a riddle wrapped in a mystery. You need something precise enough to hit a small target, yet powerful enough to ensure a clean harvest. With so many options available, how do you pick the right one? Fear not, fellow outdoorsman, because we’re breaking down the pros and cons of five popular calibers to help you make the best choice for your next beaver hunt.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | .22 LR | .17 HMR | .22 Magnum | .223 Rem | .204 Ruger |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effective Range The maximum distance at which the caliber performs reliably for small game like beaver. |
50 yards | 150 yards | 125 yards | 300 yards | 400 yards |
| Power The caliber’s ability to deliver sufficient energy for a clean harvest. |
Low | Moderate | Moderate | High | High |
| Precision How accurate the caliber is for small targets like beaver. |
Good | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Noise Level How loud the caliber is when fired, which can affect stealth. |
Low | Moderate | Moderate | High | High |
| Cost of Ammo The average cost per round of ammunition. |
$0.10 | $0.25 | $0.20 | $0.50 | $0.60 |
.22 LR
.22 LR is a classic rimfire cartridge that has been a favorite for small game hunting for over a century. Known for its affordability and low recoil, it’s a great choice for beginner hunters or those looking for a quiet option.
Pros
- Affordable ammo
- Low recoil
- Quiet
Cons
- Limited range
- Low stopping power
Interesting Fact: The .22 LR is so quiet that it’s often used for backyard pest control—just don’t tell your neighbors.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting beaver at close range and want a budget-friendly option.
.17 HMR
.17 HMR is a high-velocity rimfire cartridge designed for precision shooting. It’s excellent for small game hunting and offers a flatter trajectory than .22 LR, making it ideal for longer shots.
Pros
- High precision
- Flat trajectory
- Moderate range
Cons
- More expensive ammo
- Louder than .22 LR
Interesting Fact: The .17 HMR is so fast it’s been jokingly called the ‘laser beam’ of rimfire cartridges.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need pinpoint accuracy for beaver hunting at medium distances.
.22 Magnum
.22 Magnum, also known as .22 WMR, is a more powerful version of the .22 LR. It offers greater range and stopping power, making it a versatile choice for small game hunting.
Pros
- Increased power
- Good range
- Versatile
Cons
- More expensive than .22 LR
- Moderate noise level
Interesting Fact: Despite its power, the .22 Magnum still maintains relatively low recoil, making it a favorite among varmint hunters.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a balance of power and affordability for beaver hunting.
.223 Rem
.223 Rem is a centerfire cartridge that’s widely used for hunting and target shooting. It offers excellent precision and stopping power, making it suitable for small to medium game species.
Pros
- High stopping power
- Excellent precision
- Versatile
Cons
- Louder than rimfire calibers
- More expensive ammo
Interesting Fact: The .223 Rem is so popular that it’s often the go-to caliber for AR-15 rifles.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting beaver at longer ranges and need reliable stopping power.
.204 Ruger
.204 Ruger is a high-velocity centerfire cartridge designed for precision shooting. It’s known for its flat trajectory and minimal recoil, making it an excellent choice for small game hunting at extended ranges.
Pros
- Flat trajectory
- Minimal recoil
- Excellent range
Cons
- Expensive ammo
- Louder than rimfire calibers
Interesting Fact: The .204 Ruger is so fast it can hit targets before they realize they’re in danger—talk about stealth!
Consider this Caliber If…
You need top-notch accuracy and range for beaver hunting.
Conclusion
Choosing the right caliber for hunting beaver depends on your priorities—whether it’s range, precision, affordability, or stealth. From the affordable .22 LR to the high-velocity .204 Ruger, each caliber offers unique advantages. Consider your hunting style and budget to make the best choice for your next outing.