For coyote hunting, the bolt-action rifle is a highly popular and effective choice, favored by many hunters due to its accuracy and reliability. However, various other firearms, including AR-style rifles and shotguns, are also commonly used, each offering distinct advantages depending on the hunting scenario.
Popular Firearms for Coyote Hunting
Choosing the right firearm for coyote hunting often depends on factors such as hunting distance, terrain, and personal preference. Below are the most commonly utilized types of guns:
Bolt-Action Rifles
Bolt-action rifles are often considered the first and most popular choice for coyote hunting. They are renowned for their exceptional accuracy, which is crucial for making precise, ethical shots at longer ranges. This makes them a great selection for most coyote hunters, especially in open country where long shots are common.
AR-Style Rifles
Modern sporting rifles, often referred to as AR-style rifles, have gained significant popularity among coyote hunters. Their semi-automatic action allows for rapid follow-up shots, which can be advantageous when multiple coyotes appear or if a quick second shot is needed. They are also highly customizable, allowing hunters to tailor the rifle with various optics and accessories.
Shotguns
Shotguns are an excellent option for coyote hunting in dense cover, such as woods or brushy areas, or when calling coyotes in close. Loaded with the right ammunition (e.g., buckshot or predator-specific loads), a shotgun can be devastating at close range, offering wide patterns that increase the chance of a hit on a fast-moving target.
Important Caliber Considerations
The effectiveness of a rifle for coyote hunting is also heavily dependent on the chosen caliber. Ideal calibers provide a flat trajectory, sufficient energy for a humane kill, and minimal pelt damage for those interested in fur harvesting.
Here are some of the most popular and effective calibers for coyotes:
- .223 Remington / 5.56 NATO: Widely popular due to its versatility, availability, and low recoil. It's effective for coyotes at typical hunting ranges.
- .22-250 Remington: A high-velocity round known for its extremely flat trajectory, making it excellent for longer shots and open terrain.
- .204 Ruger: Another high-velocity option that offers a very flat trajectory and minimal recoil, often used for its precision.
- Other options: Calibers like the .243 Winchester, .17 Hornet, and .17 HMR are also used, offering various performance characteristics suitable for different hunting situations.
Choosing the Right Gun
The "best" gun for coyotes ultimately depends on your specific hunting style and local conditions. Consider the following:
| Firearm Type | Key Advantage | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Bolt-Action Rifle | Exceptional accuracy, reliability | Long-range shots, open terrain |
| AR-Style Rifle | Rapid follow-up shots, customizable | Multiple coyotes, varied terrain |
| Shotgun | Devastating at close range, quick swings | Dense cover, brushy areas, calling in close |
Understanding the characteristics of each firearm type and matching them to your hunting environment will lead to the most successful and ethical hunts. For more general information about firearms, you can refer to resources on rifles.
