Not a dumb question. I've had both. I never noticed much of a difference. The .22 pellets are hard to find sometimes.

I've also got a bow, and yes it would be better for game larger than raccoon size. No I don't hunt raccoon just using it for a size comparision <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />. You ever hunted with a bow? They are a lot harder to master than a pellet rifle. Get both if you have the funds.