I'm looking into coyote hunting and I see a lot of people use shotguns for when they come in too close for a rifle shot. What kind of load is most effective: birdshot or slugs? And what Guage?

[charlie elk]

I've used OO Buck. Talking about close. Last week this coyote came after our husky in our "yard". While it was moving on my wife and her husky my .44 mag put an end to that. It happened to be gun closest to me. So consider a handgun for close up work. If you want the hide then something a little lighter might be better.

[4everAutumn]

I'd say 12 gauge T, F, or the smaller buckshot.

[rjthehunter]

#4 buck works best in my opinion!

[jhjimbo]

I went to a FoxPro seminar and they played a video where they were using 000 buck shot. Close range and very fast action.

[huntfishtrap]

#4 buckshot is a good choice in 12 gauge. With the right choke, it should drop any coyote in its tracks out to 45 yards.

[DSMbirddog]

I have used shot loads for coyotes various times. I prefer lead shot no smaller than #2. The smaller buckshot would also work. You do want good pellet counts that I don't believe 00 buck would provide.

[FlyBum101]

I'm looking into coyote hunting and I see a lot of people use shotguns for when they come in too close for a rifle shot. What kind of load is most effective: birdshot or slugs? And what Guage?