wihunter1388

Ok i am looking for mainly a coyote rifle but could use for deer too. I was looking for a .223 or .22-250 becausea .243 is a little bit big for a coyote especially if you hit a bone. But its funny that a .22-250 shell is larger than the .223 but its just a little bit smaller than the .243. I am going more towards the .22-250 but i would like some advice. And also i am looking for a bolt action rifle under 500 perferably with a removable clip, if you know of a model like that any info is appreciated

biscuit jake

I would go with the 22 250 if you want to shoot a small, light pill blazingly fast. The 223 will be quieter, I would say good to 300 depending on wind, and depending on your barrel twist, might handle heavier bullets. That means alot to some. I have had both and am down to a 223 for a 22 centerfire. Personally, I don't use them on anything over 100 pounds; check the laws in your state. Savages seem popular for the money.

James B

The 22-250 has a big edge when the range gets past 300 yards. If your shots won't exceed 300 yards then the low cost and cheaper ammo gives a big edge to the 223. Case and barrel life is much better with the 223. If you get a 22-250, look into having it reamed to 22-250 AI. Much better case life and velocities nearing the 220 Swift with better barrel life.

Retaks

I feel that both of the choices are small for deer sized game. But if i had to choose one it would be the 22-250 because it is a little larger. I would just wait and save to get 2 rifles. It is just too risky to take deer with either of those calibers. I know it is possible and has been done but i feel they are too small. I think a .243 should be the smalles caliber to use on deer.

Hairtrigger

You may want to consider a 257Roberts or 25-06 if you will also be shooting deer

James B

I didn't notice the part about deer. Go with the 25-06. You could shoot solids for fur bearers.

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I'd take the 223 over the 22-250, since I'll not be shooting over 300 yds, and the Savage 223 has a 1-9" twist which stabilizes my favorite deer bullet quiet well. The speer 70 gr simi spitzer is an awsome bullet for deer if you are careful with shot placement. I'll also agree with the rest on here that something a little heavier would be a better choice. The 243 Win can do double duty and is somewhat better for deer size game, with great accuracy and mild recoil.

North Texan

Unless you handload, there really aren't a lot of options for factory loaded cartridges that are suitable for deer. You'd be better off with a .243, or even better, a .25-06.

My .223 handloads shoot 55 gr. Sierra Gamekings. I have been really impressed with their performance on hogs. Haven't shot any deer with it, but if they kill hogs, I can't imagine them not killing deer.

Also, not all states allow .22 centerfires for deer. Check your local laws to make sure this is even an option.