CZ .204 or .22 Hornet?

[Star1pup]

I've been posting on different sites about a .204 for groundhogs, coyotes & fox and a lot of replies have recommended a .22 Hornet.  I hunt Ohio so shots will almost always be less than 150 yards, but might try 200 on a rare occasion.  I eat the groundhogs and will sell the fox & coyote fur so don't want to blow up the meat or fur.

I have a friend with a CZ in 30-06 and that baby is a great rifle.  I also have looked at Savage.  I'd like to keep the price no more than $700 is possible.  Any advice?

[woodchukhntr]

I think that the .22 Hornet will work well, the .204 will be too destructive.  The .223 with solid point bullets would work well and give you the option of longer shots too.

I believe that the CZ 527 Varmint is available in all 3 calibers and is a great rifle.  I have the 527 carbine in 7.62x39, and love it.

There are plenty of choices within your price range, and with the shooting range limitations that you are talking about, you don't have to go with a really heavy barreled rifle.  The Savage Model 40 is a good place to start

I have a T/C Contender Carbine in .22 Hornet that is my "walking" varmint rifle.  It is very light, easy to carry and very accurate.  I have shot chucks up to 175 yards with a previous .22 Hornet, and look forward to doing the same with this one this year.  An advantage is that it accepts other barrels, so you can "stock up" with various calibers depending on need.   I have a .22 LR barrel.  New barrels are available in .204, and although not listed in the list that I saw, .22 Hornet barrels should be available.  Check Ed's TC's www.edstc.com

[coopershooter]

I have a contender carbine in .22 k-hornet and it works great out to 200 yards or so, this is my walking varmint gun too! I also have a cz 527 kevlar varmint in .204 ruger. It's heavier, more accurate and more power. I also hunt ground hog's in ohio. If that was a big part of the cartridge pick, I'd go with the .204 ruger but i don't know how fur friendly it is. That's why I have both.
 Bob.

[dalv]

Star1,
FWIW - in my local gunshop this morning picking up reloading components.  Checking out the rack for new inventory..... there is a 204CZ American "free floated" barrel it says on the ticket with awesome wood!  I already have the Varmit with OK wood - but it is a shooter (like all of 'em)

I've been thinking of a hornet - don't have one of them and I love the CZ's.  So what's down the line a couple guns... a hornet American with equally fantastic wood !!!  Oh man, I'm trying to save for my first AR - pre Bama/Hillary.

Only problem (besides lack of $$$$$$) is the prices for the CZ's have jumped, probably due to the drop in the dollar overseas.  My shop is local small owned by good people so their prices are usually pretty good.  $569 for each!  No can do, even though I will regret it later as the nice wood seems to be getting harder to find.

So, to answer your original question - go for both  .  I would start with the Hornet and grab a 204 when you can - fantastic accurate and flat shooter. Enjoy

[kevthebassman]

You're on the right track, for sure.  I love my CZ.  I have one in .17 Remington, but for what you want to do the Hornet is a good choice.  I sure wish I had one.

[Star1pup]

I didn't realize how many different GBO forums I've posted on for different aspects of my buying a rifle.   Anyhow, a CZ American  in .22 Hornet is now in my gun safe.  As soon as this Ohio weather moderates a bit, I'll head for the range and let you guys know how it shoots.  It sure feels nice when I throw it to my shoulder.