I'm just getting started in coyote hunting and was wondering what gun I should use I have a .204 will that work or should I get

[Cornbuck]

I'm just getting started in coyote hunting and was wondering what gun I should use I have a .204 will that work or should I get something bigger? Any other tips or advice would be appreciated.

[DSMbirddog]

A 204 will work but you are going to be very picky with your shots. I would say head shots only. I use mouth calls and have reasonable success. I have also road hunted them on cold days glassing sunny hill sides.

[Remington Metric]

I wholeheartedly agree with birddog. The .204 will work on coyotes as long as you do your part and know the limits of your own effective range and take clean killing shots; preferably head shots. Depending on how involved you want to get into coyote hunting I would advise considering a 6mm Remington as a big brother to your .204. It’s got fantastic down range energy, nearly zero recoil, it’s a great caliber for game up to and including deer and the ammunition is still affordable. I’ve been using my 6mm Remington for nearly 10 years as my primary coyote rifle and I have never had a coyote move after they were hit; you can watch them drop in the scope. If you’re still deciding on whether you want to go all in on coyote hunting use your .204 with caution and enjoy the hunt!

[DSMbirddog]

The 6mm Rem would be a great choice. Another suggestion is considering what you might already have. I have shot them with my 30-06 and my 264 Win Mag. No issues with range or effectiveness.

[Smitty18]

I would personally recommend a gun like a .222, .223, or 22-250 up to whatever you use for deer hunting