.17hmr, or 22mag for coyotes under 100 yds. ?

[dbozz]

Would like some opinions on this. Most shots limited in range due to thick brush. Use 12 GA. out to about 40 yes., but want something for the longer opportunities.

[stormin1563]

I would definately go with something bigger. But if that's what you have now and don't wanna buy another rifle it's not impossible. But I would absolutely not make anything but a headshot! I'd go with the 22 mag over the 17 thats just me... No doubt a 22 mag will put down a yote at 100 yards if shot in the head. I'd just be iffy bout a body shot. Hard to say if it would do much damage, they're tougher than nails!

[Sheridan]

"Most shots limited in range due to thick brush. Use 12 GA."

Continue to use your 12 gauge.


"....want something for the longer opportunities."

.204, .22-250, .223, .243


+1

"...they're tougher than nails!

[Nomercy448]

Personally, the .17HMR and .22WMR are "moderate range" rifles for coyotes, not "longer opportunity" rifles.

Like Sheridan said, that 12ga will suit you fine for these dense brush shots.

If you want longer shots, step up to a centerfire 22cal, like a .204 Ruger, .223rem, .22-250, etc etc etc.

I have taken a lot of coyotes and bobcats over the years with a .17HMR and a .22WMR, but I only use them because I own them. I wouldn't necessarily recommend you go out and spend hard earned money on one as your dedicated coyote rifle.

If all you can afford is a rimfire rifle, that's a different story. In my experience, both kill coyotes dead at 100yrds, and neither has necessarily a huge advantage over the other. The .17HMR is flatter shooting, so some people think that makes it more accurate. Personally, I don't really see any practical difference for 100yrd coyote hunting.

Ultimately, if you're going to spend $400-500 to buy a rifle to extend your coyote hunts from 40yrds to 100yrds (buying a rimfire mag rifle), why not just spend $500-700 and extend your hunts to 600yrds (buying a centerfire 22cal)? The impact of your investment will be MUCH greater if you step up to a centerfire 22cal, or even a 6mm or quarter bore (.243win, .25-06, .257Roberts, 6mm PPC, etc).

My recommendation would be to get a .223 or .22-250 in a Savage bolt action, drop on a 3-9x50 or 4-16x50mm scope, and knock yourself out.

[huntingkidPA]

something a bit bigger i would suggest. since your going to buy a .22 mag or .17 which will run you up to $500 max, you might as well get a .223, 22-250, or a 243. marlin just came out with a bolt action varmint rifle in that price range and i'm sure savage also have some options. but if your shots are rarely over 40 yds i wouldn't really waste the money, save the money and wait till you need something. but everyone needs more guns

[HogFL]

Savage just came out with a bolt action 5.45x39 rifle. The ammo is cheap. If it has to be HP, cut the tips off. They're hollow under the jacket. Hornady also makes an excellent v-max load.

[SecondChance]

You can pick up an H&R varmint in 223 or other various varmint calibers really cheap and are VERY accurate. I bought my dad one in 243 and it drives nails!!!!! Topped off with a 4x12 scope and your good to go with in 400yds. You could go with a 223 and still be good out to the same distance and ammo slightly cheaper.

[redgreen]

22 magnum will flatten a coyote

[Sheridan]

You can kill'em with a good slingshot, if you hit'em just right !


You know what I mean ???


Use enough gun !!!

[GTOHunter]

My Predator Calling Partner is using a Savage Bolt-Action in the .22 Magnum,it has the Accu-trigger also.He hasn't had the opportunity to shot a Coyote with it yet but its just a matter of time since we've been going out calling for the past few weeks with the new Rifle he has...I'm sticking with my CZ-USA .204 Rifle....I've taken down 5 Coyotes so far...all have dropped in the spot they were shot at....1 spun in a circle and dropped since I hit it too far back....but She didn't run off either!