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For that amount of rabbits, anything larger than a 22lr is going to be expensive to shoot. I don't find 17hmr that expensive, $0.50 per shot, I couldn't reload 223 for that cheap, and it takes up...

There's no reason to think 223 is too big for small pests. Too get out too those ranges your going to be pushing the limits of a 22-250, and into 243 territory. Both which are bigger than 223. 22-250...

What is your definition of long range would be my first question?
If it was up too 150m with the odd 200m shot then I'd say 17hmr. No messing around reloading, and they really aren't that...