rifle for predators

[noxbigbuck2008]

Is a .22 long rifle a good gun for coyotes other predators???

[Buckwheat]

noxbigbuck2008
I am new here on this board but have a little experience shooting predators and the 22 long rifles. It is not the gun you should use. It will probably kill them, but most of the time they will run off and die slowly. Try and stick to a center fire rifle if you can. A lot of hunter’s use 204, 17 rem, 22 hornets, 223, 22.250 as examples to give you an idea of what size a lot of hunters prefer. You can even go bigger for coyotes if you would like.

Ernie

[noxbigbuck2008]

Thanks for the info! Just bought a really nice one for squirrels and just wondered what other uses that it might have. I have heard of some shooting beavers with them, but I would be hesitant to shoot it on the water for obvious reasons.

[Yotey]

If you are looking to save the pelts start with a .243 and move down from there. The .243 may even be a little big if you are looking to save pelts but you can get some good predator loads for the .243. The best round will probably be the .223, .22-250. I personally use a .204 now. A well placed .22 will do it but it would not be a good round to consistantly kill coyotes.
David

[tyson129]

If you are looking to save the pelts start with a .243 and move down from there. The .243 may even be a little big if you are looking to save pelts but you can get some good predator loads for the .243. The best round will probably be the .223, .22-250. I personally use a .204 now. A well placed .22 will do it but it would not be a good round to consistantly kill coyotes.
David

I agree with the smaller cartridges for doing the least amount of damage to the pelts, I personally use my .257 Roberts. Great gun + Great caliber IMO.