The 222 will shoot circles around a 17 HMR.. I had a 17, sold it. I still have my triple duece..
Personally I do not see the 223 being cheaper to shoot than a 222. They both shoot the same caliber bullets, use the same primer and the 222 uses less powder. Brass is only a few bucks more than 223. Or you can run 223 brass through a 222 die and trim it..