Buckshot For Coyotes?

[TNred]

Just bought a new Mossberg shotgun for thick-cover coyote hunting.  I need some suggestions for buckshot loads to try.  My shots will range from 10 to 50 yards.

I'm only interested in 3-inch shells (or 2.75-inch).  No roman candles for me.  

I hear #4 buck is good.  What brands do you guys use, and how do they perform for you?

Is there a 2.75-inch load that would suit my needs, or is 3-inch the ticket?

I know I need to try several different loads to see which works best in my gun.  I'm just trying to get a starting point.

Thanks for your help.

[Lawdog]

Go to Federal at http://www.federalcartridge.com/default.asp?menu=1&s1=1 and click on Shotshell.  Specify that you want loads for a Shotgun, 12 ga. and Medium Game.  Even so I would limit my shots to 35 - 40 yards.  Lawdog
 

[zapper223]

I use a kicks turkey choke and remington express high velocity 3" # 4 buckshot in my 870 express magnum. I bought these shells at sportsmans guide for $3.00 or so for 5 . this was the best price I could find they are buffered and pattern great in my gun. As far as range no one can tell you . You'll need to pattern your own gun. I have taken coyotes out to about 55 yards which is my max .  Try several different loads to see which patterns best in your gun then do a search and you may find them cheaper as I did. #4 is the best size shot I've found for coyotes , bobcats . You still get a good size pattern with minimal pelt damage as long as you don't shoot them when there in your lap, let them get out at least 20yds. or more with a xtra full choke if you care about hides.
                          Good - Luck,
                                   zapper  :-D

[Swift One]

Remington 3" #4 buckshot and the included turkey choke is what I use out of my 835 Mossberg.  haven't taken a Yote with it yet, but I smoked a Coon's a$$ at 40yds with it.

[Catfish]

No. 4 bucks would be my choice for a shotgun. With factory ammo you get 27 pellets in a 2 3/4 in. shell and 41 in a 3 in. I used to load alot of them for fox years ago and the Layman manual has a load for 34 pellets in a 2 3/4 in. case that killed alot of fox for us. I would stick with the 3 in. shells for coyote though.

[New Hampshire]

Agreed with catfish.  Federal makes a nice 3" mag with 41 pellets of #4.  Smack some 'yotes dead!
Brian M.