Best Hunting Calibers for Coyotes: Comparing .223 Rem, .22-250 Rem, .243 Win, .204 Ruger, and 6.5 Creedmoor
Find the perfect caliber to outsmart the wily coyote.
Choosing the right caliber for hunting coyotes can feel like picking the perfect lure for fishing—there are so many options, and each one claims to be the best. Coyotes are fast, elusive, and often hunted at long ranges, so selecting the right caliber is critical for ethical and effective hunting. In this article, we’ll break down five popular calibers for coyote hunting and help you decide which one fits your needs.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | .223 Rem | .22-250 Rem | .243 Win | .204 Ruger | 6.5 Creedmoor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Muzzle Velocity Speed of the bullet leaving the barrel, critical for long-range accuracy. |
3,200 fps | 4,000 fps | 3,000 fps | 4,200 fps | 2,700 fps |
| Effective Range The distance at which the caliber remains accurate and lethal. |
500 yards | 600 yards | 800 yards | 400 yards | 1,000 yards |
| Recoil The amount of kick felt when firing, important for follow-up shots. |
Low | Low | Moderate | Very Low | Moderate |
| Ammo Cost Average cost per round, affecting affordability for frequent practice. |
$0.50 | $1.00 | $1.50 | $0.75 | $2.00 |
| Ideal Hunting Scenario Best use case for the caliber in coyote hunting. |
Close to medium-range hunts | Long-range precision shots | Versatile for mixed game | Ultra-lightweight setups | Extreme long-range hunts |
.223 Rem
.223 Rem is one of the most popular calibers for coyote hunting due to its affordability, low recoil, and availability. Originally developed for military use, it has become a favorite among hunters for small to medium game. Its flat trajectory makes it effective at medium ranges, and the wide variety of ammo options ensures you’ll find something that suits your needs.
Pros
- Affordable ammo
- Low recoil
- Widely available
Cons
- Limited long-range performance
- Less knockdown power
Interesting Fact: The .223 Rem is the civilian version of the military’s 5.56 NATO round, but they’re not always interchangeable—check your rifle’s chambering!
Consider this Caliber If…
You want an affordable and reliable option for medium-range coyote hunts.
.22-250 Rem
.22-250 Rem is a speed demon among hunting calibers, boasting blistering muzzle velocities that make it ideal for long-range shots on coyotes. Developed in the 1930s as a wildcat cartridge, it has since gained popularity for its flat trajectory and precision. While ammo costs are higher, its performance at extended ranges makes it worth the investment.
Pros
- Exceptional long-range accuracy
- Flat trajectory
- High muzzle velocity
Cons
- Expensive ammo
- Barrel wear from high velocities
Interesting Fact: The .22-250 Rem can push bullets faster than 4,000 fps, making it one of the fastest commercially available calibers.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need pinpoint accuracy for long-range coyote hunting.
.243 Win
.243 Win is a versatile caliber that bridges the gap between small and medium game hunting. Introduced in 1955, it’s known for its balance of speed, power, and manageable recoil. While it’s slightly heavier than other coyote calibers, its knockdown power makes it a great choice for hunters who might encounter larger predators or mixed game.
Pros
- Versatile for mixed game
- Good knockdown power
- Long effective range
Cons
- Moderate recoil
- Higher ammo cost
Interesting Fact: The .243 Win is often used for deer hunting, making it a dual-purpose caliber for hunters targeting coyotes and larger game.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a caliber that can handle coyotes and larger game like deer.
.204 Ruger
.204 Ruger is a lightweight, high-velocity caliber perfect for hunters who prioritize minimal recoil and flat trajectories. Introduced in 2004, it quickly gained a reputation for its speed and accuracy. While it’s not ideal for larger game, it excels at taking down coyotes with surgical precision.
Pros
- Ultra-low recoil
- High muzzle velocity
- Flat trajectory
Cons
- Limited versatility
- Less knockdown power
Interesting Fact: The .204 Ruger is one of the few calibers designed specifically for varmint hunting, making it a specialist’s choice.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a lightweight, precision-focused caliber for coyotes.
6.5 Creedmoor
6.5 Creedmoor is the darling of long-range shooters, and it’s no surprise that it’s a solid choice for coyote hunting at extreme distances. Developed in 2007, it offers excellent ballistic performance and manageable recoil for its size. While it’s overkill for close-range shots, it shines when precision and range are key.
Pros
- Exceptional long-range performance
- High ballistic coefficient
- Versatile for larger game
Cons
- Expensive ammo
- Overkill for close-range hunts
Interesting Fact: The 6.5 Creedmoor was originally designed for competitive shooting but quickly became a favorite among hunters.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need a caliber for extreme long-range coyote hunting or mixed game.
Conclusion
Choosing the right caliber for coyote hunting depends on your hunting style, range, and budget. Whether you prefer the affordability of .223 Rem, the speed of .22-250 Rem, the versatility of .243 Win, the precision of .204 Ruger, or the long-range power of 6.5 Creedmoor, there’s a perfect caliber for every hunter. Explore your options and gear up for your next hunt.