I picked up a model 16 in 204 Ruger back in July because a store out here had it on clearance for $400. I just wanted the action, but I thought I'd try out the 204 just for fun. We really don't have a whole lot going as far as varmint hunting here in Western Washington, but I thought that the caliber would be fun for a walk-about rifle. For when those "targets of opportunity" pop up. While we don't p-dogs, or ground hogs around here, we do have plenty of possum and porcupine if you know were to look. Since these guys don't present much of a challenge with a rifle, I usually only shoot them with a handgun, and save the rifle for coyotes or maybe a bobcat.

I went out today to do one last scouting trip before deer season opens next weekend. I took a break to double check the sights on my 22 pistol when this guy crawled out of the brush pile I was using as a backstop. He was not ammused. Since I've already taken 5 porcupines with the Ruger Mk III, I thought that this would be the perfect chance to try out the 204.

[img width=600 height=450]http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t260/collegekidandy/100_0346.jpg[/img]

[img width=600 height=450]http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t260/collegekidandy/100_0347.jpg[/img]

I have never seen anything so funny in my life! ;D There was a cloud of quills and fur. The quills were stuck into the trees and sprayed 15 yards behind the little critter. The down side to the whole thing is that now I couldn't really do anything with what was left of him. I normally take them home and eat them. That's only if I make a head shot though. I'm not taking any chances with eating a quill. So this guy got left behind for the coyotes.