Desert Coyote

[bullfrog]

I spent most of the morning driving to try to get to some premium coyote calling country. I had time for 6 stands, and the third one was the only productive one. I was hoping to see a couple more dogs, but I'll take the one. He didn't come in until I had been calling for 20-25 minutes. He must have come a long way, because once I saw him he was very committed. I passed up a shot at about 250, and was able to stop him at about 140 yards. The 40 grain vmax blew a big whole out the other side. To bad, because this was one of the prettiest song dogs I've ever shot. He had really long fur. I need to start reloading so I can try some fur friendlier bullets like the bergers.

[Melvin Eades]

Congratulations on the coyote and thanks for the pictures. I like pictures.

[walleyeman]

That is one nice coyote. Do you experience pass throughs with the Vmax quite often? (Looks like shot placement wasn't that bad, right behind the front leg.)

[bullfrog]

walleyeman: Shot placement was typical as he was broadside so the entry was similar placement to the exit that you can see. I've shot 6 coyotes with the vmax, and all but 1 have had large exits. One was definately my fault as I shot it in the neck (It was either that or the head). However, the others I've been a little dissapointed on. Even when hitting the shoulder blade, they pass all the way through. I still haven't had one that has not exited.
Oh well, at least they died.

[Rick in Oregon]

bullfrog: Congrats on another nice dog. I can see that handloading is in your future for sure! Warning: Once you get started, it's addictive!

[tmfisher57]

Another fine Oregon dog. Good job Rick, great pics. As usual you have delivered us another great story.

[Ryan S Albright]

Good job! Don't be afraid to try the 32gr Vmax's I've had pretty good luck with them. They seem to work well on neck shots! Right now I am shooting them at about 3800 fps. I know you can't get the factory loads at that speed. If you want to get started reloading try the Lee hand press for $20 bucks It works great and you can reload in the kitchen. You can always add more equipment later. But if you are on a tight budget Lee will get you going. I also use the RCBS Partner press and really like it over my heavy press. $54 dollars you can't beat it.