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View Full Version : Max range on 223 for coyote?


Critch
10-22-2008, 01:19 AM
The farthest shot I have ever made with a 223 on a coyote is a little over 100 yards. What is, in ya'lls opinions is the longest shot possible for say a 50-55 grainer for a humane kill?

I've shot the 223 out to about 300 yards, but punching paper and gongs is not the same.

bigbrother
10-23-2008, 02:23 PM
Dependant upon which 50-55g bullet you're using. I don't know that I'd use a vmax at all but wouldn't be afraid to use the old reliable Hornady spire point at 400. Remember, coyotes aren't that big, they're not heavy skinned either. Accuracy and being able to put the bullet in the vitals is the key. A 50 grain bullet through the ribs at 400 yds will kill just like one at 100. The result might not be as dramatic but you probably won't have as big of a hole to sew shut either.(if you're trying to sell the hides)

petey
10-23-2008, 07:59 PM
I know I've successfully missed them on a dead run straight away at 500yards with my .223! ;)

Catfish
10-23-2008, 08:18 PM
I have sucessfully missed coyotes at 600 yrds with my .223.! First lair don`t stand a chance. :D
Coyotes are tough. I put a double lung shot on 1 that left a 3 1/2 in. hole on the back side and it still ran 150 yrds. You can kill them as far as you can place the bullet in the vitals, but be prepared to track them if you want the hide.

petey
10-24-2008, 08:33 AM
They aren't too tough when shot in the head! He he, Sorry for the graphic nature, but here's one BB shot in the head at 300 with a 25-06. Believe it or not it was stitched up pretty good by that taxidermist.

Mil Dot
10-24-2008, 08:53 AM
I've seen 'em dropped over 500 with a 223 two different times by a couple of my hunting buddies. At that range hide damage is definately minimal. I believe both were using 55grn bullets.

Rocky Raab
10-30-2008, 07:20 PM
The simplest answer is: the .223 will kill a coyote as far as you can hit one. Hitting is the limitation, not the cartridge.