Quote:
Originally Posted by speedracing944
Yes I own a 12 gauge, 20 gauge and a .22. The 12 and 20 gauge I have just used for shooting clay pigeons, the .22 I have used for plinking little 13 lined ground squirrels from 25- 50 yards. I am by no means an expert.
I was thinking with the right round, high velocity hollow point, I could rip a pretty good size hole with a .22.
The 12 gauge I would fear would loose effectiveness much quicker and would only provide a warning to the fox.
I agree a 223 would be a good choice as it is one of the better varmint rounds out there.
How about a AR15 with 223 and scope? I might have justification to buy one now 
Or a nice single shot 50 caliber 
Speedy |
You are right about the 12 gauge. Lots of guys use them on pests like this, but you have to be quite close. Maybe 20 to 30 yards, using a heavy "turkey" load with #2's or BB's and a full choke. The .22 would work at up to twice that range, but that's about it. That's really the crux of the problem - the limited range of either.
The .223 is a big step up, in more ways than one. It's extended range will allow you to kill a fox (or coyote, bobcat, raccoon, or whatever else shows up) pretty much as far away as you can see one. That extended range also means more attention to backstop, direction you are shooting, and that kind of safety concern. They are a lot louder as well. All in all, though, it's a great choice for anyone living in a rural area like you are, especially if you are keeping chickens and such. You'll have more visitors than just that fox...