Best Factory Load Options For Coyote Hunting In The Winter Months?

Choosing the Right Cartridge

When selecting a factory load for coyote hunting, consider the cartridge’s ballistic performance, recoil, and cost. For example, the .223 Remington is a popular choice due to its flat trajectory and manageable recoil, but it requires careful bullet placement to ensure a quick kill. In contrast, the .308 Winchester offers a larger diameter bullet, providing more kinetic energy and a more forgiving shot placement. When choosing a load, prioritize a heavy bullet (85-95 grains) and a high velocity (around 3,000 ft/s) to ensure a reliable and humane harvest.

Load Options for Popular Cartridges

For coyote hunters, the following factory loads are highly effective:

• .223 Remington: Federal Premium 69-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip (3,120 ft/s), Remington 69-grain Accutip (3,090 ft/s)
• .243 Winchester: Winchester Supreme 90-grain Ballistic Silvertip (3,140 ft/s), Hornady 95-grain ELD-X (3,130 ft/s)
• .308 Winchester: Federal Premium 178-grain Gold Medal (2,750 ft/s), Remington 180-grain Core-Lokt (2,740 ft/s)
• .30-06 Springfield: Winchester Supreme 180-grain Ballistic Silvertip (2,900 ft/s), Hornady 190-grain ELD-X (2,930 ft/s)

Range and Terrain Considerations

When hunting coyotes in winter, consider the range and terrain to select the most effective load. For close to moderate ranges (less than 200 yards), a lighter bullet can be effective, but for longer shots (200-300 yards), a heavier bullet is recommended. Additionally, consider the vegetation and terrain when choosing a load; for example, a smaller bullet may be more effective in dense brush, while a larger bullet may be better suited for open terrain.