Should I use a lighter bullet for faster follow-up shots?

Bullet Weight Considerations

When hunting coyotes with a 223 Remington, bullet weight plays a crucial role in effective follow-up shots. A lighter bullet, typically weighing between 50-60 grains, can indeed provide faster follow-up shots due to reduced recoil and faster muzzle exit velocities. However, this comes at the cost of reduced kinetic energy, which can affect the bullet’s penetration and expansion.

Kinetic Energy and Expansion

A 50-grain bullet fired from a 223 Remington rifle will typically achieve a muzzle velocity of around 3,200 feet per second (fps). At this velocity, the bullet’s kinetic energy is approximately 1,000 foot-pounds (ft-lbs). In contrast, a 75-grain bullet fired at a lower velocity of around 2,800 fps will have a kinetic energy of approximately 1,300 ft-lbs. This increased kinetic energy can result in deeper penetration and more effective expansion, especially in larger coyotes.

Practical Applications

In a real-world hunting scenario, the choice of bullet weight depends on the hunter’s skill level, the environment, and the specific coyote being hunted. If the goal is to make quick follow-up shots on smaller coyotes in dense cover, a lighter bullet may be beneficial. However, if the goal is to ensure deep penetration and effective expansion, a heavier bullet is generally recommended. Hunters should carefully consider their needs and the characteristics of their firearm and ammunition before making a decision.