Hi guys, new here!
I'm new to predator hunting, although I have killed a few coyotes with everything from 30-06, .223, .45acp, 12 guage, and the last one I got was with a .410 slug. You guys are the experts, though, so i respect your opinions.
I once shot a bullfrog across a pond (35yds?) 13 times with a .22lr before I killed it. Four broken legs, one eye, holes through both ears, holes through the throat....the durn thing was still wiggling when I dispatched it. I'd shoot it and it would hit the water, only to somehow crawl(or attempt to crawl) out of the water, then I'd shoot em again....(sigh). It was disheartening to say the least to see the creature struggling to live.
I was taught from a young age about the responsibilities we, as hunters have to secure a clean kill. Those of us who have had to track a wounded animal know the feeling of dread that comes with such a chore, and the relief that comes in recovering and dispatching said creation of God's.
The problems with the "rimfire vs centerfire for coyote" debate is the same as the ".223 for deer" debate, in that you're looking at the upper limit for the capabilities of each round. Experience is on both sides of the debate as there have been untold numbers of coyotes killed with a rimfire, but on the flipside there have been untold numbers lost.
As stated before, I have killed coyotes with what I had available at the time. Like bowhunting, you have to know your limits, and make conscientious decisions to limit crippled, wounded animals. Often the decision is personal, so I take no side in the debate. If I think I can drop a yote @ 50yds with the .17HMR in my hands at the time, I MAY take the shot. Then again, if it doesn't feel right, I may take the pass. I know the rifles capable, the rest is on me.
All that being said, I have often advocated the use of a shotgun for humane pest control, as it is a lot easier for me personally, to get off a needed second or even third shot if necessary, on a spinning, jumping, wounded target.
So does anybody have any shotgun horror stories to tell? Anybody out there ever hit a coyote at the proper range, with the proper load, in the proper place, only to have him get away?
While these discussions are often heated, it allows those who can think, the opportunity to learn.
Good day gentlemen.