Way back in the 1970's I looked hard at the 17's and was pretty disappointed even though they are fast ballistic coefficient is poor . Recently I saw a accidental shooting with one and (.17 HMR) and in that case was surprised by the lack of damage to a mans arm and my opinion is still .22 caliber and up for anything bigger then rodents .
Then again unlike some I consider the .223/5.56 to light for deer .