As a seasoned hunter and outdoor writer with over a decade of experience, I’m frequently asked about the best caliber for bobcat and coyote hunting. It’s a question with a surprisingly complex answer, as the “best” really depends on your specific hunting situation, ethical considerations, and desired outcome – whether that’s fur harvest, meat utilization, or simply responsible predator control. We’ll dive deep into options ranging from the classic .22LR to more powerful cartridges like the 5.56, and everything in between, including considerations for shot placement and fur quality. Understanding the nuances of each caliber is crucial for a successful and humane hunt. We'll also address questions like will a 22lr kill a coyote and explore options for maximizing your success.
Understanding the Challenges of Predator Hunting
Hunting coyotes and bobcats presents unique challenges. They are intelligent, wary animals with keen senses. They often inhabit varied terrain, from open fields to dense woodlands. Furthermore, ethical hunting demands a quick, clean kill. This means choosing a caliber with sufficient energy and accuracy to reliably reach vital organs. Shot placement is paramount, especially with smaller calibers. Before we get into specific calibers, let’s consider the factors that influence your choice:
- Range: How far are you typically shooting?
- Terrain: Open country favors longer-range calibers, while thick brush demands maneuverability and shorter-range effectiveness.
- Fur Value: If you’re hunting for fur, minimizing hide damage is critical.
- Legal Restrictions: Always check your state’s hunting regulations regarding permissible calibers and firearms. (National Park Service Hunting Regulations)
- Personal Proficiency: The most powerful caliber is useless if you can’t shoot it accurately.
Small Caliber Options: .22LR, .17 HMR, .22 Magnum
These calibers are popular choices for varmint hunting, and can be effective on coyotes and bobcats, especially with careful shot placement. However, they require a higher degree of skill and understanding of their limitations.
.22LR for Fox Hunting and Coyote Control
The .22LR is a classic for a reason – it’s affordable, readily available, and has minimal recoil. While can a 22lr kill a coyote? Yes, it can, but it’s not ideal for consistent, ethical harvests. It’s best suited for close-range shots (under 100 yards) at stationary or slow-moving targets. Head or spine shots are crucial. For bobcats, it's more appropriate for dispatching an animal already trapped or injured. For fox hunting, the .22LR is a very effective choice. REI’s Expert Advice details the nuances of rimfire ammunition, which is important for maximizing .22LR performance.
.17 HMR vs. 204 Ruger: A Step Up in Performance
The .17 HMR offers significantly more velocity and energy than the .22LR, extending its effective range to around 150-200 yards. It’s a good option for coyotes, but still requires precise shot placement. The 204 Ruger is even more powerful, but less common and generally overkill for coyotes unless you're consistently shooting at longer ranges. The .17 Hornet is another contender, offering a flatter trajectory than the .17 HMR, but with slightly less energy.
.22 Magnum: Bridging the Gap
The .22 Magnum (.22 WMR) provides a noticeable increase in power over the .22LR, making it a more viable option for coyotes at moderate ranges (up to 150 yards). Will a 22 mag kill a coyote? More reliably than a .22LR, but still requires accurate shooting. It’s also a decent choice for bobcats, especially if you’re comfortable with the slightly increased recoil.
Mid-Range Calibers: .17 Hornet, .22 Hornet, 350 Legend
These calibers offer a good balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil, making them versatile choices for predator hunting.
.22 Hornet for Coyotes: A Classic Choice
The .22 Hornet is a flat-shooting cartridge with good energy for its size. It’s effective on coyotes out to 200 yards, and can also be used on bobcats. It’s known for its accuracy and relatively low recoil. However, ammunition can be more expensive and harder to find than .22LR or .17 HMR.
350 Legend for Coyotes: Modern Power
The 350 Legend is a relatively new cartridge designed for straight-walled rifles, making it legal in many states where traditional rifle cartridges are prohibited. It delivers significant energy and is very effective on coyotes out to 200 yards. It’s also a good choice for deer hunting, making it a versatile option.
Larger Calibers: 9mm, 5.56, and Beyond
These calibers offer the most power and are generally considered the most effective for coyote and bobcat hunting, especially at longer ranges. However, they can also cause more hide damage if not used carefully.
Will a 9mm Kill a Coyote? Effective, But Consider Hide Damage
Yes, a 9mm can certainly kill a coyote, and is often used for predator control. However, 9mm ammunition often features expanding bullets designed for self-defense, which can cause significant hide damage if you’re hunting for fur. Full metal jacket (FMJ) ammunition is a better choice for fur harvesting, but may have less stopping power.
5.56 for Coyote: Powerful and Versatile
The 5.56 NATO (.223 Remington) is a popular choice for coyote hunting, offering excellent accuracy and a flat trajectory. It’s effective out to 300 yards or more. Like the 9mm, bullet selection is crucial. FMJ ammunition is preferred for fur, while soft-point bullets offer better stopping power for control purposes.
Shot Placement: The Key to Ethical Harvest
Regardless of the caliber you choose, proper bobcat shot placement is absolutely critical. For both coyotes and bobcats, the vital zone is located in the chest cavity, behind the shoulder. A well-placed shot will hit the heart and lungs, resulting in a quick, humane kill. Head and spine shots are also effective, but require a very steady hand and precise aim. Leave No Trace principles emphasize responsible hunting practices, including ensuring a quick and ethical kill.
Where to Shoot a Bobcat for Taxidermy
If you plan to have a bobcat mounted, avoid shooting through the shoulders or head. A clean shot through the body, slightly behind the rib cage, will preserve the hide and skull for taxidermy. Consult with your taxidermist for specific recommendations.
Fur Harvesting Considerations: The Perfect Cougar Pelt
If you’re hunting for fur, minimizing hide damage is paramount. Avoid using expanding bullets, and aim for a clean shot that doesn’t puncture the hide. Proper skinning and fleshing are also essential for producing a high-quality pelt. Barnes Hide and Fur offers valuable resources on fur handling and grading.
Best Coyote Caliber for Fur: A Summary
For maximizing fur value, I recommend the .22 Hornet or .17 Hornet with FMJ ammunition, used with precise shot placement. The 350 Legend with FMJ is also a good option, offering more power at moderate ranges. Avoid expanding bullets whenever possible.
Ammunition Choices: Best 22 LR Ammo for Coyotes
For .22LR, stick with high-velocity FMJ ammunition for the best penetration and accuracy. Avoid hollow-point bullets, as they are more likely to cause hide damage. Experiment with different brands to find what shoots best in your rifle.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best caliber for bobcat and coyote hunting is a personal decision. Consider your hunting style, the terrain you’ll be hunting in, and your ethical obligations. Practice regularly with your chosen firearm, and always prioritize safe and responsible hunting practices. Remember, a well-placed shot with a smaller caliber is far more ethical than a poorly placed shot with a larger one.
Disclaimer: Hunting regulations vary by state and are subject to change. Always consult your state’s wildlife agency for the most up-to-date information.