Anybody else have this experience with the 17 HM2?

[Mickey Rat]

My son had the same experiance with the 17 M2. Head shot with minimal damage.

I think that rang is the factor. I bet your shot was a close one, right? Less than 35 yards?

Your problem is that you are using a 7MM Mag @ 75 yards. Not good with deer, not good with squirrel.

My first squirrel with my 17 HMR was @ about 50 yards, a body shot and it was a mess. Made me decide to retire the 17 HMR from quirrel hunting in favor of the 22 short.

Just too much power and not enough target IMHO.

Use the 17 as a long range sniper. Mine does 3/8" @ 100 yds.