As a seasoned hunter and outdoor writer with over a decade of experience, I’ve spent countless hours pursuing coyotes across the American West. One question I consistently get asked is, “What’s the best varmint caliber for coyote hunting?” It’s a deceptively complex question. There isn’t a single “best” – the ideal choice depends heavily on your hunting style, terrain, typical shot distances, and personal preferences. This guide will walk you through the most effective options, helping you determine the best coyote gun for your needs. We’ll cover everything from the popular .17 HMR to the longer-range capabilities of the .224 Valkyrie and beyond, and even touch on shotgun options.
Before diving into specific calibers, let’s establish some key considerations. Coyotes are intelligent, adaptable predators. They’re often wary, and shots can be fleeting. Effective coyote hunting requires a combination of skill, strategy, and the right equipment. A crucial factor is range. Are you primarily hunting in open fields with shots under 200 yards, or are you working in vast landscapes where 300-500 yard shots are possible? Another consideration is pelt quality. A clean, well-placed shot is essential for maximizing pelt value. Finally, ethical hunting demands a caliber capable of a quick, humane kill. The Leave No Trace principles should always be followed.
Let's explore the most popular and effective calibers, starting with the smaller options and moving towards the larger ones. I’ll also include my thoughts based on personal experience and observations.
The .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) is a long-time favorite for varmint hunting, and for good reason. It’s flat-shooting, accurate, and relatively inexpensive. Many hunters successfully use the 17 HMR for coyotes, especially at closer ranges (under 150 yards). However, its lightweight bullet can struggle with penetration on larger coyotes or at longer distances. The best 17 hmr ammo for coyotes is typically a 17 grain V-Max or similar expanding bullet. While coyote hunting with 17 hmr is viable, it requires precise shot placement. Will a .22 kill a coyote? While a .22LR can technically kill a coyote, it's generally considered underpowered and unethical for consistent, humane harvests.
The .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) and .22 Magnum (.22 Mag) are both affordable and readily available. However, their limited range and energy make them less ideal for coyote hunting. Can a .22 kill a coyote? Yes, but it requires a perfect shot to the vitals and is not recommended for consistent results. The .22 Mag offers a slight improvement in range and energy over the .22 LR, but still falls short of the more dedicated varmint calibers. 22 for coyote hunting is best reserved for very close-range situations or for training.
The .223 Remington (and its military counterpart, 5.56 NATO) is arguably the most popular ar coyote gun caliber. It’s versatile, accurate, and offers a good balance of range, velocity, and energy. The best 223 coyote round is often a 55-62 grain bullet, such as a Hornady V-Max or Nosler Partition. The best .223 rifle for coyote hunting is often an AR-15 platform due to its modularity and customization options. The 223 coyote gun is a common choice for hunters who want a semi-automatic platform. The .223 is effective out to 300 yards with proper shot placement. The National Park Service provides regulations regarding hunting within National Parks, which may restrict caliber choices.
The .243 Winchester offers more downrange energy and flatter trajectories than the .223. It’s a great choice for hunters who regularly take shots at 300-400 yards. The 243 - 58 gr vmax for coyotes is a popular and effective load. It provides excellent expansion and energy transfer. It’s a reliable and accurate caliber, making it a solid all-around choice.
The .224 Valkyrie is a relatively new cartridge designed specifically for long-range shooting. It offers significantly flatter trajectories and better wind resistance than the .223, making it ideal for shots out to 500 yards or beyond. It’s becoming increasingly popular as an ar coyote gun due to its performance. While ammunition can be more expensive and less readily available than .223, its performance justifies the cost for dedicated long-range coyote hunters. This is a strong contender for the best 500 yard coyote caliber.
The .204 Ruger is known for its incredibly flat trajectory and high velocity. It’s a superb varmint cartridge, but its relatively light bullet can suffer from wind drift at longer ranges. It’s a good option for open country hunting where shots are typically under 300 yards.
The 6mm Creedmoor is gaining popularity for its exceptional accuracy and long-range capabilities. It offers excellent ballistic performance and is a versatile cartridge suitable for both coyote and deer hunting. It’s a more expensive option than some of the other calibers, but its performance is undeniable.
The .30-06 Springfield is a powerful cartridge traditionally used for big game hunting. While it’s certainly capable of killing a coyote, it’s often considered overkill. The excessive power can result in significant pelt damage. However, if you already own a .30-06 and are comfortable with it, it can be used effectively, especially at longer ranges. The 30 06 for coyote is a viable option, but not the most efficient.
While rifles are the most common choice, shotguns can also be effective for coyote hunting, especially at closer ranges. Federal coyote shotgun shells loaded with #4 buckshot or heavier are a good choice. 00 buck for coyotes is also effective, but patterns can open up at longer distances. Shotguns are particularly useful in situations where quick follow-up shots are needed.
Beyond the rifle and ammunition, several accessories can significantly improve your success rate. A quality optic is crucial for accurate shooting at longer ranges. A best varmint light or best predator hunting light is essential for night hunting. I recommend a high-lumen LED light with adjustable brightness and color filters. A bipod or shooting rest can improve stability and accuracy. And don’t forget a good rangefinder to accurately determine distances.
Ultimately, the best caliber gun for coyote hunting is the one you shoot most accurately and confidently. Consider your hunting style, terrain, and typical shot distances. If you’re primarily hunting in open fields at close range, the .17 HMR or .223 might be sufficient. If you’re hunting in vast landscapes with longer shots, the .224 Valkyrie or 6mm Creedmoor are excellent choices. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different calibers and ammunition to find what works best for you. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and ethical hunting practices. The USDA Forest Service provides information on hunting regulations within National Forests.
And remember, 120 coyotes down is a testament to consistent practice, ethical hunting, and choosing the right tool for the job!