I found the chief advantage to the .17HMR is that farmers that allow only rimfires on squirrels don't mind the .17HMR and it has the best range capability of all the current rimfires. You can also shoot with out hearing protection.

Where center fires are allowed, the .204 Ruger is my current favorite, shown here in a custom M700 with Lilja stainless barrel.

Flippy: I have been double busy myself as of late.
I am actually out on the "left coast" doing body guard work.
Our crew is guarding an executive for a publicly held company. This guy makes $18,000.00 PER DAY!
And thats not counting his travel account, expense account, protection, stock options, perks - nothing but his CASH salary!
Jees!
I just need a couple of days worth of his pay and I would BUY YOU a 17 HMR!
I will get back to you ASAP on more reasons for a 17 HMR!
I am happy to see you have an open mind!
Long live the 17 HMR!
Hold into the wind
VarmintGuy