Pup,
I bought my .223 for a knock around gun,I dearly love my 22-250 and it shoots flat and fast.I don' t reload and it was killing me to pay 15.00 dollars a box to shoot with.So I found an inexspensive .223 (Rossi single shot,24 in.bull barreled) that came with a scope for 180 bucks.I put a bi-pod on it and it will shoot 1/2 groups @ 100yds and I can buy re-man ammo for $8.00 for 50 and shoot coyotes and gophers and not break my wallet.
If calling coy-dogs you can usaly get them with in 200 yds or closer.But it is up to you it' s your money and your fun,so have a blast and pick the one you wan' t.BBJ