Quick Answer
Coyote hunting with a .308 offers a balance of power and accuracy, making it suitable for medium-range shots, while its larger size and heavier bullets can be an overkill for closer shots. The .308 also tends to have a higher recoil compared to smaller cartridges. Overall, it's a versatile choice for coyote hunting.
Advantages
The .308 is a flat-shooting cartridge, which makes it well-suited for medium-range hunting, such as 200-400 yards. At these distances, the .308’s 150-180 grain bullets can penetrate deeply and deliver a fatal wound. Additionally, the .308 is widely available and supported by a large selection of rifles and optics, making it easy to find suitable gear.
Drawbacks
One significant drawback of using a .308 for coyote hunting is its recoil, which can be uncomfortable for smaller-framed shooters. This can be mitigated by choosing a rifle with a good recoil pad or using a muzzle brake. Another consideration is the potential overkill when shooting coyotes at closer ranges, such as 50-100 yards. In these situations, the larger bullets and higher kinetic energy of the .308 can result in excessive damage and potentially render the coyote unharvestable.
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