Best Calibers for Coyote and Predator Hunting: .223 Rem, .22-250 Rem, .243 Win, .204 Ruger, .17 HMR
Choosing the perfect caliber to outsmart wily coyotes and elusive predators.
Every predator hunter has faced the same dilemma: What caliber is best for taking down coyotes and other predators efficiently, without overkill or underperformance? With so many options available, it can feel like you’re chasing your tail. Fear not, because we’ve broken down the top calibers for predator hunting to help you make an informed decision.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | .223 Rem | .22-250 Rem | .243 Win | .204 Ruger | .17 HMR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effective Range The maximum range at which the caliber maintains accuracy and stopping power. |
500 yards | 600 yards | 700 yards | 400 yards | 200 yards |
| Recoil The amount of kick felt when firing the caliber. |
Low | Moderate | Moderate | Very Low | Minimal |
| Bullet Velocity The speed of the bullet as it leaves the barrel. |
3,200 fps | 4,000 fps | 3,100 fps | 4,200 fps | 2,550 fps |
| Ammo Availability How easy it is to find ammunition for the caliber. |
Widely Available | Available | Widely Available | Available | Available |
| Ideal Game Size The size of game the caliber is best suited for. |
Small to Medium | Small to Medium | Medium | Small | Small |
.223 Rem
.223 Rem is a versatile and affordable caliber that has earned its place as a favorite among predator hunters. Originally developed for military use, it offers excellent accuracy and manageable recoil, making it ideal for coyotes and other small predators.
Pros
- Affordable ammo
- Low recoil
- Widely available
- Effective at medium ranges
Cons
- Not ideal for larger predators
- Wind drift can affect accuracy at longer ranges
Interesting Fact: The .223 Rem is so popular that you can find ammo for it in nearly every sporting goods store across the country.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a reliable, budget-friendly option for medium-range predator hunting.
.22-250 Rem
.22-250 Rem is a high-velocity caliber that excels at long-range accuracy. Known for its flat trajectory and impressive stopping power, it’s a favorite among hunters targeting coyotes and foxes.
Pros
- Exceptional long-range accuracy
- Flat trajectory
- High bullet velocity
Cons
- Moderate recoil
- Ammo can be pricier than .223 Rem
Interesting Fact: The .22-250 Rem can reach speeds of up to 4,000 fps, making it one of the fastest calibers for predator hunting.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need a caliber for long-range shots on open terrain.
.243 Win
.243 Win is a versatile caliber that bridges the gap between predator hunting and larger game. With its higher stopping power, it’s a great choice for hunters who might encounter larger predators or need a dual-purpose rifle.
Pros
- Versatile for predators and larger game
- Excellent accuracy
- Widely available ammo
Cons
- Moderate recoil
- Overkill for smaller predators
Interesting Fact: The .243 Win is often used for deer hunting, making it a great choice for hunters who want one rifle for multiple species.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a caliber that can handle coyotes and larger predators like wolves or bobcats.
.204 Ruger
.204 Ruger is a relatively new caliber that has quickly gained popularity for its blistering speed and low recoil. It’s perfect for small predators like coyotes and foxes, especially in open terrain.
Pros
- Extremely fast bullet velocity
- Minimal recoil
- Flat trajectory
Cons
- Less effective on larger predators
- Ammo availability can vary
Interesting Fact: The .204 Ruger is one of the fastest commercially available calibers, with velocities exceeding 4,200 fps.
Consider this Caliber If…
You prioritize speed and accuracy for small predators.
.17 HMR
.17 HMR is a rimfire caliber designed for small game and predators. While it lacks the stopping power of larger calibers, its minimal recoil and pinpoint accuracy make it a favorite for close-range hunting.
Pros
- Minimal recoil
- Affordable ammo
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Limited effective range
- Not suitable for larger predators
Interesting Fact: The .17 HMR is so quiet that it’s often used for backyard pest control (where legal).
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting small predators at close range and want a lightweight option.
Conclusion
Choosing the right caliber for coyote and predator hunting depends on your specific needs, whether it’s range, recoil, or versatility. From the affordable .223 Rem to the lightning-fast .204 Ruger, each caliber brings unique advantages to the hunt. Explore your options and gear up for success.