RE: .17 cal. for coyote?
That's very sound advice. I have hunted coyotes in NY, and the hides are thick. I also shoot a Hummer and would not be confident in it past 100 yards on a coyote. Definately sticking to head shots when you can.
It all depends on your distance, how well you know where your rifle is hitting, and your ability to put a bullet where you intend it to strike. Practice with your rifle and always know where it's hitting at various distances.