For me the short barrel wins hands down. My 17HMR has a 14ins barrel as does my .22LR they are much easier to use in a truck and handle better.Both are super accurate. I've been told that you loose a few feet per second but the stuff i've shot with my guns hasn't noticed a jot! Both calibres have more than enough power to do the job intended. You pays your money and takes your choice as they say.