I'm starting to consider this with even the .22 mag. The added velocity will have an impact on how much meat is left. How much of an impact, I'm not sure.

What leads me toward the mag is it's use in deterring coyotes or larger mammals. For a while, this will be my only rifle and I'd like it to be as versatile as possible...without going overboard.

Thanks for the input so far. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

(I hate to re-use a reply, but this comment was also brought up in my thread on Rat Chat and I'm anxious to continue discussion on this point) <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />