Been using various 17 rem rifles since the 1990's.
Bullet choice is critical. The 20 grain v max is on the light side for foxes, other than daft cubs. I like the 25 grain Berger bullets. I prefer N140 to the other powders I have tried. Don't listen to the American opinions that only Rem 7 1/2 primers will do. The Federal 205M is a better option, giving better accuracy in the 8 or so 17 rem chambered rifles I've owned/used.
The 25 grain Hornady HP is too tough now, but the old stock of these is a fine bullet.
The lack of recoil is a pleasure. You will see maybe 8 out of 10 bullets impact, even with a light sporter weight rifle.
Wind drift and excessive fouling of a good barrel are a problem only in the minds of Internet educated fools who have never shot one.