I really like my .17 HMR and my .22 Mag..very rarely use a shotgun..

Since small game around here is rabbits, squirrel, woodchucks, crows & coon..the .22 LR is the obvious leader.
I wouldn't normally take the .22 LR out for fox or coyote..but would take one within range if I saw it.

One reason I like clip fed autos, I can carry 2-3 clips with Mini-Mags, Subs and Stingers or Velociters and
use as needed.