I still think the .22 mag. is the gun your looking for. In comparison to the centerfires in it's category, it is very economical to shoot and is very accurate as well. No, it will never be a .223 or the like, but it is still well suited as a short to mid range predator/varmint rifle that will get the job done efficiently. Bullet placement is key and should be no matter the caliber used or game chased, and I assure you, if hit in the right places it will $**!can the largest coyote on the continent out to 100 yards!! As a kid, I watched in amazement as the .22 long rifle killed our 300 and 400 pound butchering hogs instantly with a well placed shot to the brain. The .22 mag. has as much energy at 100 yards as the .22 long rifle at the muzzle with the right bullet selection.
So yes, there are better choices, but the .22 mag. will get the job done.