3 x 12 sounds like what you are looking for in a scope. Don' t need more that that on a .223.
3 is good for those close in shots on coyotes.

Dead on at 25 yards will be 2 1/2 or 3" high at 100 yards. Should put you back on zero at 250 or 275 yards.

Best sight in for .223 IMO is 1" high at 100 yards. Then learn your hold overs at 200+. Most shots will be inside 200 at small targets. Too much sight over will cause lots of misses at short ranges.