How to choose the right ammunition for coyote hunting?

Choosing the Right Caliber

When it comes to coyote hunting, a flat-shooting varmint cartridge is ideal. For rifles with shorter barrels (less than 20 inches), a .223 Remington or 5.56x45mm is often a good choice. These cartridges typically produce velocities over 2,500 feet per second (fps) with a flat trajectory, making them suitable for hunting coyotes at medium to long ranges. For rifles with longer barrels (20-24 inches), consider the .22-250 Remington or .243 Winchester, which can produce velocities over 3,500 fps and offer even flatter trajectories.

Bullet Selection

The right bullet weight and type can significantly impact your coyote hunting success. A 55- to 60-grain bullet is often a good choice for .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm cartridges, while a 70- to 90-grain bullet is better suited for .22-250 Remington and .243 Winchester cartridges. Look for bullets with a high ballistic coefficient (BC) and a jacket that resists expansion, as these will tend to penetrate deeper and provide a cleaner kill. Consider bullets with a polymer or copper-alloy jacket for improved expansion and weight retention.

Velocity and Expansion

When selecting ammunition for coyote hunting, consider the velocity and expansion characteristics of the cartridge. A velocity of at least 2,500 fps is necessary for effective coyote hunting, as this allows the bullet to reach the target quickly and penetrate deep. Look for cartridges with expansion ratios of at least 1.5:1, as these will tend to expand more fully and provide a cleaner kill. Avoid cartridges with low expansion ratios, as these may not provide enough penetration and may lead to a longer recovery time for the coyote.