Applying For Fac , But What's Best For Different Quarry

[David.evans 5,323]

What do you lads use for rabbits out to 120 yards (17 hmr may be )

Foxes out to about the same range

I'm asking because I don't want to apply for the wrong rifle and look daft, really I'm looking for advice from shooters that have got this experance , and can pass on there knowledge

Many thanks

Dave

[ianm 2,594]

For rabbits and fox to 120yds and beyond i would consider both the hornets .17 and .22.

[andyf 144]

First time FAC, best to go for a .22 Rimfire & a 17hmr both with moderators.

It's not just what is 'suitable' or 'best' it'll be what 'they' will let you have as well on a first time application, and the above should be easy.

Personally I don't rate the 17 but it's probably best to get one and find out / decide for yourself, the two rifles will get you going

with fac experience, and you can shoot all vermin successfully. Foxes are borderline, but up close perfectly ok.

Centrefires can be got further down the road.

[celticrusader 78]

I take rabbits at 160yrds easy with the hmr and a semi auto 22 lr for closer range(5-100 yrds) for more rapid follow up work on rabbits,rats,squirrels etc etc.

Don't see the point in having a bolt action in two as the difference would be minimal.

[David.evans 5,323]

Any advice on the type of ammunition, it's all helping a lot ! -grains ect

Would 500 rounds be exsesive, to hold at an one time

Dave

[celticrusader 78]

I have 500 and no it would be fine, 17grain is fine and you wouldn't really need any other grain size tbh.

Brand wise...they are all good and only ever being slightly better than thers so get a box of a few and have a go but apart from that I've found that they're not as finicky as .22lr ammo.

[David.evans 5,323]

Celticrusader

Your a gent thanks mate

Dave

[David.evans 5,323]

Andyf

Many thanks for yor advice , 22 rimmie and a 17 hmr , with mods it is then , fingers crossed

Atb dave

[SportingShooter 0]

David,

 

I agree with the above that a rimfire would suit your needs and the HMR would be ideal for 120 yards rabbits,

 

However, if you need a centrefire because you intend shooting Foxes on a regular rather than opportunist basis then apply for one,

 

Members and shooters will say that "you won't get a centrefire on first grant". It's nonsense. If you need it, apply for it, it costs you absolutely nothing more to put it down on the form. For 120 yard Foxes, then for me, ideally it would be a .22 Hornet or if you're potentially going to be shooting further a .223.

 

SS

[doie1 22]

i was granted a cf on my first application, in fairness i did have the condition of a mentor with it so i just went with the hmr, and later discoverd the mentor thing is poppy cock. so as SS said if you need a CF then go for it.

[charlie caller 3,654]

Dont bother with the .17hmr, get a .22 hornet mate, foxes out to 200 yards, brilliant little round and much less affected by wind than the .17

[celticrusader 78]

True my friend but then he has also mentioned rabbits and the hmr is better on the rabbits... unless every shot is a headshot.

[charlie caller 3,654]

Yep still sack the hmr off and get a .22 lr, use the hornet for long range bunnies.

[David.evans 5,323]

Now I'm getting confused , I hope I haven't poked open a wasps nest

But this advice is invaluable to me , many thanks again to all who have helped

Dave

I really don't want to push the boat out with the fac officer ,,keep it simple and apply for my needs as you said sporting hunter , if you don't ask you don't get !

[Deker 3,453]

David,

 

I agree with the above that a rimfire would suit your needs and the HMR would be ideal for 120 yards rabbits,

 

However, if you need a centrefire because you intend shooting Foxes on a regular rather than opportunist basis then apply for one,

 

Members and shooters will say that "you won't get a centrefire on first grant". It's nonsense. If you need it, apply for it, it costs you absolutely nothing more to put it down on the form. For 120 yard Foxes, then for me, ideally it would be a .22 Hornet or if you're potentially going to be shooting further a .223.

 

SS

:yes: