Coyote Hunting Ammo Guide

A hunter's choice in caliber often comes down to a balance of velocity and versatility. The .22-250 Remington has long been a popular choice, known for its high velocity and flat trajectory ideal for long-range shots in open terrain. Other top contenders include the .243 Winchester, which is powerful enough for both coyotes and smaller big-game like deer, and the widely available .223 Remington. The .223 Remington is frequently used due to the popularity of AR-style rifles and the affordability of its ammunition. While it may not have the long-range energy of a .22-250, high-quality loads like Hornady's 53-grain V-Max Superformance are effective out to around 300 yards with precise shot placement. For hunters prioritizing pelt preservation, bullet construction is as critical as caliber. Varmint-specific bullets, such as the Hornady V-MAX, Nosler Varmageddon, and Winchester Varmint X, are designed with thin copper jackets and polymer tips. This design causes the bullet to fragment rapidly upon impact, expending all its energy within the animal. The goal is to prevent a large exit wound, which can damage the hide and reduce its value. However, these lightweight, high-velocity bullets have trade-offs. They are more susceptible to wind drift, which can affect accuracy at extended ranges. If a varmint bullet strikes heavy bone, it can result in insufficient penetration, a phenomenon known as "bullet splash." For shorter-range encounters, typically under 150 yards, some hunters opt for rimfire cartridges like the .17 HMR. This caliber offers minimal recoil and is known for causing very little pelt damage, making it a specialized tool for certain conditions. Newer cartridges like the 22 Creedmoor are also gaining popularity, especially among tournament hunters. The 22 Creedmoor is capable of pushing heavier, high-ballistic-coefficient bullets at extreme velocities, offering excellent performance against wind drift compared to older .22 caliber centerfire cartridges.