Author Topic: WHAT SCOPE FOR COYOTES? (Read 991 times)

catblaster.375 · « **on:** August 09, 2004, 08:47:48 PM »

I have just moved to the coyote capitol of Oregon a few months ago and need to get outfitted for yotes. I would like to try a CZ rifle(probably a 550 Varmint Kevlar in .308win) cus I love my 452. I thought .308 so I could also use it on long range pronghorn and mulies. Now for a scope- I realy don't like those big variable AO scopes and much prefer a compact fixed variable. I really don't want to spend more than $150 and found a Simmons 6x for $80 that I realy like. Is this enough or do I need somethin bigger? I seem to be a better shot with my scopes on the lower power anyway I get realy wiggly when at the higher settings. The shots would probably be out to 200 yards. I know you all think I will be overgunned but I am not doin it for the pelts and would realy like to blow some huge anchoring holes through em. I would start to purchase somewhere in the future(a few months) since I just bought a 629 .44(and love it!!!) but want to have somethin to look forward to. Thanks guys I would realy apricaite your opinions.

Jerry Lester · « **Reply #1 on:** August 09, 2004, 09:47:16 PM »

Go with the 6X scope. I use 6X's on all my calling rifles. My favorite scope is a Leupold M-8 6x42. It's mounted on my 223, and I can bust groundhogs out to 300 yards with it regularly. That's more than plenty enough for called in predators.

If you're wanting a very good quality, but reasonably priced fixed 6X scope, the Weaver K-6 is very hard to beat for the price. I think I gave around $150 for mine shipped.

I have it mounted on a standard Ruger 77-Hornet, and it makes a dandy calling rifle, or just a good walking varminter.

6X is a good compromise between too much power, and not enough.

7magWoodsman · « **Reply #2 on:** August 10, 2004, 03:26:26 AM »

I DO NOT condone killing an animal for the sake of killing, even in a predator control situation it is REALLY easy to find someone to take the carcases of yotes for their pelts (at least around here). just my .02 :money: and I mean no disrespect.

To answer your question..."my opinion" of a perfect coyote scope would be a 2x-7x or 3x-9x. But, since you have limited yourself within 200yards and running shots are frequent on yotes and also considering your price range I highly recommend a Weaver K4 (4x38mm) the K6 will work but those 30 yard running shots "can" mess you up....You can get a Weaver (Classic) V9 3-9x 38mm for $155 from www.theopticzone.com and I would not hesitate buying,using, and enjoying this scope for ANY hunting situation.

catblaster.375 · « **Reply #3 on:** August 10, 2004, 08:05:11 AM »

Thanks guys. I would love to get the Leopold M-8 6xMac4 if I could afford it. I just dont see spendin 3/4 of what I spend on the gun on the scope. The Simmons 44mag 4-12x44 non-AO looks like a neat scope and has a realy awsome recticle. It is kinda on the high end of what I would like to spend though. I'll also look into that Weaver.
I am sorry if i have affended anyone with my "unethical hunting practices". I belive the trappers are the only people around here that skin em(the just plink em in the head with a .22HP) as there are so many and get to be real livestock killers. Infact most of the ones that get shot are by the ranchers just walkin out in there field and shootin em- no caller or nothin. Nothin goes to waste either, every time I shoot a jack its gone the next day. They must be ravenous and I know they can be cannibalistic. But all this said you got me thinkin and I am certainly gonna look into that. But that is another investement to get started and you gotta have some furbearer's licence dont ya? Also the Idea of skinnin a dog dont apeal to me. But again sorry if I affended you. Thankyou

Wlscott · « **Reply #4 on:** August 10, 2004, 10:46:36 AM »

I have a Weaver K6 that spent three years sitting on top of my elk rifle (Winchester Md 70 in 300WSM). It now sits on my 45-70. In the situations that you mention, a fixed 6X will serve you perfectly.

That being said.....

I like a larger variable scope on my coyote rigs. My idea of a perfect coyote scope is a 4-16, with a fairly large objective. Where I hunt, you have an chance a close in coyotes, but more likely they will hang up at longer ranges, and you AINT going to get closer :?

I use a Springfield Armory 4-16X56 on my main coyote rifle. I set it on 4X and leave it unless I have one hang up waaaaay out there. Then I can dial it in.

No matter what you go with, use it a lot, and get good with it.

Good luck.

223Shooter · « **Reply #5 on:** August 11, 2004, 04:38:40 PM »

I have a Bushnell 3-9x40 on my .223 NEF Handi. Considering the areas that I hunt (coyotes) here in Wisconsin, this scope is perfect for my needs. I rarely use it above 4-5 power. If I need more scope...I have it.

cooper · « **Reply #6 on:** August 12, 2004, 08:46:09 AM »

catblaster, I agree with those who like scopes in the 4x range for calling coyotes.

I have a 4-12 Leupold on my 22/250, and I leave it at 4x when calling coyotes. You never know when you will get one of those shots where the coyote sneaks in and then just pops up right in front of you and takes off running! You need a low power scope in those situations.

If I have time, sometimes I crank the scope up for a long shot, but it's not really necessary. Coyotes are fairly big targets. You will have more trouble with a high power scope on close shots, than you will with a low power scope on long shots.

MF · « **Reply #7 on:** August 12, 2004, 02:01:07 PM »

I'm with Wlscott and Cooper on this. I've got a Weaver 3.5-10 GS scope on my Encore .243. I put the power down on 3.5 while calling but can dial it up if they hang up way out there. Mike

varmit_master · « **Reply #8 on:** August 13, 2004, 01:26:10 AM »

Hi i am using the Nikon 4.5x14x40mm on my 22 250 and my 300 wby and i am getting another for my other rifle VM