Coyote hunting presents unique challenges, demanding ammunition that delivers reliable stopping power and accuracy at varying ranges. Choosing the right 5.56 ammo can significantly impact your success. This guide dives deep into the best 5.56 options for taking down coyotes effectively and ethically.
Understanding Coyote Hunting Ballistics
Before delving into specific ammunition choices, it's crucial to understand the ballistic characteristics that make certain 5.56 rounds superior for coyote hunting. Key factors include:
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Bullet Weight: Heavier bullets (e.g., 62-77 grain) generally offer better penetration and retained energy at longer ranges, crucial for ethical shots on coyotes that might be at the edge of your effective range. Lighter bullets (e.g., 55 grain) are better for shorter ranges and can be more effective for quick, clean kills at closer distances.
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Bullet Construction: The bullet's construction significantly impacts its performance. Consider these options:
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Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): FMJ rounds are affordable and reliable, but their relatively low expansion can result in less humane kills if not placed precisely. They are often chosen for their penetration capabilities, especially when longer shots are anticipated.
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Soft Point (SP): Designed for controlled expansion, soft point bullets offer a balance of penetration and expansion, generally leading to more humane kills. They are a popular choice for coyote hunting.
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Hollow Point (HP): Hollow point bullets are known for their rapid expansion, creating significant wounding capability at closer ranges. However, excessive expansion can sometimes reduce penetration, potentially leading to pass-through shots without a clean kill.
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Controlled-Expansion Rounds: These rounds are specifically engineered for reliable expansion at various ranges, offering a predictable and humane outcome. They typically represent a premium price point.
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Velocity: Higher velocity rounds generally offer flatter trajectories, leading to better accuracy at longer ranges. However, excessive velocity can sometimes lead to over-penetration, especially with lighter bullets.
Top 5.56 Ammo Choices for Coyote Hunting
Considering the above factors, here are some top 5.56 ammo options that consistently deliver excellent performance in coyote hunting:
1. Hornady 75gr BTHP Match: This round offers exceptional accuracy and a controlled expansion profile, making it ideal for longer-range shots. The heavier bullet ensures sufficient penetration, even on larger coyotes or those at greater distances.
2. Federal Premium 62gr Nosler Partition: The Nosler Partition bullet is renowned for its reliability and consistent performance. Its construction ensures reliable expansion while maintaining sufficient penetration for clean kills.
3. Barnes VOR-TX 55gr: This is a premium choice known for its impressive expansion and high-energy transfer. While designed for controlled expansion, this lighter bullet is suited for closer encounters, with high potential for causing serious damage.
4. Winchester 64gr Power-Point: The Power-Point bullet is designed for controlled expansion and good penetration. It represents a balance between performance and price.
5. Remington 62gr Core-Lokt: A reliable and consistently performing option. The Core-Lokt bullet is a good balance between performance, expansion, and penetration, often offering a cost-effective choice.
Choosing the Right Ammo for Your Specific Needs
The "best" 5.56 ammo for coyote hunting depends significantly on your hunting style and typical engagement distances. Consider the following:
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Hunting Location and Terrain: Open fields generally allow for longer shots, favoring heavier, more accurate ammunition. Wooded areas may require a more controlled expansion profile to prevent over-penetration.
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Shot Distance: Longer shots demand heavier, more stable bullets with flatter trajectories. Shorter shots benefit from lighter bullets that create sufficient damage without over-penetration.
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Your Rifle and Optics: The accuracy and consistency of your rifle and optic will also influence your ammo choice. Choose ammo that performs well within your rifle's capabilities.
Disclaimer: Always prioritize safe and ethical hunting practices. Ensure you are aware of your surroundings and are capable of making precise shots before engaging any target. Consult relevant hunting regulations and safety guidelines in your area. This information is for guidance only; personal experience and testing are crucial for determining the best ammunition for your specific needs and hunting conditions.
