Is .223 the Best Choice for Coyote Hunting?

Hunting with Firearms
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When it comes to coyote hunting, the caliber you choose can make a significant difference in your success. Many hunters find themselves debating whether .223 is the right round for the job. Here’s a deeper look at using .223 for coyote hunting, along with some insights and experiences from fellow hunters.

Why Choose .223 for Coyote Hunting?

The .223 Remington is a popular choice among varmint hunters for several reasons:

  • Low Recoil: The .223 offers manageable recoil, making follow-up shots easier, especially in situations where quick shots might be necessary.
  • Flat Trajectory: The .223 delivers a flat trajectory, allowing for better accuracy over longer distances, which is often critical in open landscapes.
  • Variety of Loads: There’s a wide range of bullet weights and types available, which can cater to specific hunting conditions and personal preferences.

Bullet Types and Loads

Choosing the right bullet type for coyote hunting is essential. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Soft Points: These are great for expansion and hitting coyotes effectively without too much over-penetration.
  • Hollow Points: Ideal for a devastating impact at varmint distances, ensuring a quick and humane kill.
  • Ballistic Tip: These are specifically designed for explosive expansion on thin-skinned animals like coyotes.

Recommended Loads:

  • 55gr V-Max: A popular choice for its explosive nature upon impact.
  • 60gr Nosler Partition: Offers great accuracy and terminal performance.
  • 75gr BTHP: Good for longer range shots, but keep in mind your twist rate to stabilize it properly.

Comparing with Other Calibers

While .223 is widely recommended, how does it stack up against other popular choices like .243 and .22-250?

  • .243 Winchester: Offers more power and longer range but comes with slightly more recoil. This can be advantageous when hunting larger animals alongside coyotes.
  • .22-250 Remington: Known for its high velocity and flat trajectory, it packs a punch but may be a bit overkill for coyotes. It can also lead to more fur damage than .223.

Personal Experiences

Fellow hunters have shared their results with .223 ammunition:

  • Hunter A: “I’ve taken multiple coyotes at 200 yards with my .223, and the results were impressive. I prefer the 55gr V-Max for that extra pop!”
  • Hunter B: “I’ve tried both .22-250 and .223, but I always return to .223 for its versatility and ease of use, especially on long trips.”

Conclusion

Ultimately, .223 proves to be an effective and popular choice for coyote hunting due to its performance, availability, and manageable recoil. However, it’s essential to consider your hunting environment and what you’re most comfortable with. Whether you stick with .223 or explore other options, the key is to practice, stay informed, and make the most out of your hunting experiences. What has been your experience with .223 for coyote hunting? Let’s hear your thoughts and any tips you may have!

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The .223 is a popular choice for coyote hunting due to its versatility. You have options like soft point, hollow point, and frangible bullets. Each type affects the impact on the coyote differently.

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I’ve had great success with the soft point bullets. They provide excellent expansion and are effective in bringing down coyotes quickly.

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It’s interesting how bullet weight can impact performance. Generally, lighter bullets (like 55 grains) can achieve higher velocities, while heavier ones (like 69 grains) offer better stability in flight. What’s everyone’s go-to weight?

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I prefer 62-grain bullets. They seem to make a nice balance between speed and stopping power on coyotes.

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I’ve used both 55 and 75 grain bullets, and I think it largely depends on the terrain. In open areas, the lighter ones perform well, but in more rugged settings, the heavier options hold together better.

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That’s a good point! Terrain can definitely affect bullet choice. Plus, environmental factors like wind can significantly impact trajectory. What do you all do to account for that?

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I like to check the wind direction before hunting. It helps me choose the right load and angle for my shots. Practice with different bullets has helped too.

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For those who’ve used frangible bullets, do you find them effective? I’ve read mixed reviews about their stopping power for larger animals like coyotes.

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I think they’re great for close-range shots, but I wouldn’t trust them for longer ranges. They disintegrate too quickly against tough targets.

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I usually lean towards hollow points. They expand nicely upon impact, which often drops the coyote quickly. Has anyone tried them with different weights?

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I’ve shot 55 grain hollow points and they worked well. The expansion was impressive, and I never had a follow-up shot needed.

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I’m curious, does anyone think there are advantages to using premium ammunition for coyote hunting? The cost is often higher but I’ve heard they can be more reliable.

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I’ve used premium .223 loads, and I feel the consistency is worth the money. Better performance in my experience.

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In the end, everyone has their preferences, but I believe experimenting with different types can help you find what works best for your hunting style. What has your experience been?

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Absolutely! Hunting is personal, and each hunter tailors their setup. Just make sure to have fun out there!

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In my experience, the .223 is an excellent choice for coyote hunting due to its low recoil and flat trajectory. When positioning, try to find a vantage point overlooking a field. This way, you can spot coyotes before they spot you.

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Absolutely agree! I like to use calls to draw them in. The distress call method has worked wonders for me. It really gets their attention!

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Using a .223 for coyote hunting also makes tracking easier. Look for tracks in dusty areas or slight depressions where they might bed down during the day. Always remain quiet and observant.

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You raise a good point about tracking! It’s crucial to identify their habits in your area. Does anyone else have a preferred calling technique?

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