Best Hunting Calibers for Thermal Hunting: Hogs, Coyotes, and Predators at Night
Compare the top calibers for nighttime hunting and make the perfect choice for your next thermal hunt.
Choosing the right caliber for thermal hunting can feel like trying to pick the best tool in a pitch-black toolbox. Whether you’re targeting hogs tearing up your fields, coyotes harassing your livestock, or other nocturnal predators, the right caliber can make or break your hunt. With thermal optics in play, you need a round that balances accuracy, stopping power, and versatility. Let’s break down five popular calibers and help you find the perfect match for your nighttime adventures.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | .223 Rem | .308 Win | 6.5 Creedmoor | .243 Win | .300 Blackout |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effective Range The maximum range where the caliber maintains accuracy and stopping power. |
300 yards | 800 yards | 1,000 yards | 500 yards | 200 yards |
| Recoil The amount of kick felt when firing the caliber. |
Low | High | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| Noise Level How loud the caliber is when fired, which can affect stealth during nighttime hunts. |
Moderate | Loud | Loud | Moderate | Quiet (with suppressor) |
| Ammo Availability How easy it is to find ammunition for the caliber. |
Widely Available | Widely Available | Moderately Available | Widely Available | Moderately Available |
| Best Use Case The type of game and hunting scenarios the caliber excels in. |
Coyotes, small predators | Hogs, large predators | Long-range predators | Medium-range hogs and predators | Close-range hogs, suppressed hunts |
.223 Rem
The .223 Rem is a lightweight, low-recoil caliber that shines in varmint and predator hunting. Originally designed for military use, it has become a favorite among hunters for its affordability and versatility. Its flat trajectory and manageable recoil make it ideal for coyotes and other small predators.
Pros
- Low recoil
- Affordable ammo
- Great for small predators
Cons
- Limited stopping power for larger game
- Shorter effective range
Interesting Fact: The .223 Rem is so popular that you can probably find ammo for it in your neighbor’s glove box.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting coyotes or smaller predators and want a lightweight, accurate round.
.308 Win
The .308 Win is a powerhouse caliber known for its versatility and stopping power. It’s a go-to choice for hog hunters who need to drop large game with authority. With a long effective range and wide ammo availability, it’s a reliable option for nighttime thermal hunts.
Pros
- Excellent stopping power
- Long effective range
- Widely available
Cons
- High recoil
- Loud report
Interesting Fact: The .308 Win is so effective, it’s been used by military snipers for decades.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re targeting large hogs or predators and need reliable stopping power.
6.5 Creedmoor
The 6.5 Creedmoor is a precision shooter’s dream, offering exceptional accuracy at long ranges. It’s a favorite among hunters who need to reach out and touch predators at extended distances. While it’s not as widely available as some other calibers, its ballistic performance is hard to beat.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy
- Flat trajectory
- Great for long-range hunting
Cons
- Moderate recoil
- Ammo can be harder to find
Interesting Fact: The 6.5 Creedmoor is so accurate, it’s been accused of making mediocre shooters look good.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting predators at long range and value precision over all else.
.243 Win
The .243 Win is a versatile, medium-recoil caliber that’s great for medium-sized game and predators. It offers a balance of power and accuracy, making it a solid choice for hogs and coyotes alike. Its flat trajectory and manageable recoil make it a favorite for hunters of all skill levels.
Pros
- Flat trajectory
- Moderate recoil
- Good for medium-sized game
Cons
- Not ideal for very large game
- Limited range compared to larger calibers
Interesting Fact: The .243 Win is often called the ‘starter caliber’ for new hunters, but it’s far from basic.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re looking for an all-around caliber for hogs and predators at medium range.
.300 Blackout
The .300 Blackout is a specialized caliber designed for suppressed shooting and close-range effectiveness. It’s perfect for hog hunters who want to stay stealthy during nighttime hunts. While it lacks the range of other calibers, its subsonic capabilities make it a unique tool in the thermal hunter’s arsenal.
Pros
- Quiet with a suppressor
- Great for close-range hunting
- Effective stopping power
Cons
- Limited range
- Ammo can be pricey
Interesting Fact: The .300 Blackout was originally designed for special forces, so you know it’s got some tactical flair.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting hogs at close range and value stealth and suppression.
Conclusion
Choosing the right caliber for thermal hunting depends on your target species, hunting range, and personal preferences. From the lightweight .223 Rem to the powerhouse .308 Win and the stealthy .300 Blackout, each caliber offers unique advantages. Evaluate your needs and gear up for your next nighttime adventure.