I would much rather have something bigger than the .17 if I was to use it primarily for coyotes. However, a couple of positive points for the .17:

If you're hunting in a heavily populated area,taking short shots with the .17 might be less of a problem than firing a 220 Swift at 400 yards

There is also the issue of minimal damage to the hide by the .17.

Of course, both of these issues are contingent on you being able to call the coyotesto under 150 yards.