I think the 22 Mag is a better hog caliber, too. But Hogs are usually take at close range in thick cover. I am pretty sure the 17 HMR with a well placed shot and the right bullet (not the V-Max) would kill a hog, but my hog gun is a 44 Magnum Winchester 94. I didn't buy the .17 for anything big. If I ever get another 22 magnum, it will be a Henry lever action. I have two friends who have CZ "mini-mausers" in 7.62 x 39. Great little carbines for deer hunting in the woods.