Best Calibers for Taking Out Foxes, Bobcats, and Other Small Predators

If you’re dealing with foxes, bobcats, or similar critters sneaking around your property, the right caliber matters. You want something accurate, fast, and effective without tearing up the hide if you’re planning to keep it.

Whether you’re protecting livestock or hunting for pelts, here are the calibers that get the job done right.

.22-250 Remington

The .22-250 is one of the flattest shooting small-caliber rounds out there. It’s fast, accurate, and ideal for long shots on small predators like foxes and bobcats. The minimal recoil also helps with follow-up shots if needed.

It’s especially handy in open country where you need reach. The downside is it can do some damage to hides, depending on bullet type, but with the right load, it’s a solid pick for predator control.

.223 Remington / 5.56 NATO

You can’t talk predator calibers without mentioning the .223. It’s versatile, widely available, and works well from AR platforms or bolt-action rifles. It’s more than enough for foxes, coyotes, and bobcats with proper shot placement.

It doesn’t hit as hard as the .22-250, but it’s great for tighter areas where shots are under 200 yards. Plus, with a wide range of bullet choices, you can tailor it to your setup and your goals—whether you’re keeping hides or just keeping critters away.

.17 HMR

If you’re shooting under 150 yards and want to minimize pelt damage, the .17 HMR is hard to beat. It’s a rimfire round, but it’s got enough speed and punch to take down foxes and similar-sized predators cleanly.

It’s also super flat shooting and surprisingly accurate. Just keep in mind that wind can throw it off more than heavier rounds, and it’s not the best choice for anything larger than a bobcat. But for the right situation, it’s a surgical option.

.204 Ruger

The .204 Ruger doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves. It’s fast—real fast—and it shoots flat like a laser. That makes it excellent for varmints and small predators that won’t sit still for long.

It’s got less recoil than a .223 but hits harder than a .17. You’ll want to be picky with bullet selection if you’re saving pelts, but it’s a solid balance of speed, power, and accuracy. Perfect for open-field setups and long shots.

.22 Magnum (WMR)

The .22 WMR bridges the gap between the .22 LR and centerfire options. It’s quiet, low-recoil, and plenty effective inside 100 yards. For close-range predator control around the homestead, it’s a reliable workhorse.

It won’t tear up your pelts, and ammo’s still pretty affordable. It’s not meant for long shots or windy days, but for quick work in tight quarters, a .22 mag does what you need it to.

.17 Hornet

If you like the accuracy of the .17 HMR but want more reach and knockdown power, the .17 Hornet is worth a look. It’s a small-caliber centerfire that packs a punch without much recoil.

It’s great for foxes and bobcats, especially if you’re trying to keep the pelt intact. Flat trajectory, mild report, and better resistance to wind than rimfire rounds make it a good middle-ground option for serious predator hunters.

.222 Remington

Old-school but still effective, the .222 Remington has earned its reputation for precision. It’s been mostly overshadowed by the .223 these days, but if you’ve got one sitting in the safe, it’ll do the job just fine.

It’s got similar ballistics to the .223 with a little less bark. That makes it a great option for calm, accurate shooting on small predators. Ammo can be harder to find, but it’s a tack-driver in the right rifle.

.22 Long Rifle (LR)

The classic .22 LR isn’t ideal for every predator situation, but it has its place. For close-range dispatching or tight shots on a trapline, it’s effective with good aim.

It’s not your go-to for long shots or bigger animals, but it’s quiet, cheap, and works when used right. Use hollow points for more knockdown power, and keep your shots close and clean.

6mm ARC

The 6mm ARC is newer on the scene but has been getting attention for its performance in the predator and varmint world. It hits harder than the .223 without jumping into full-on deer rifle territory.

It gives you better long-range energy and stays flat out past 300 yards. It’s more than you need for a fox, but if you’re hunting multiple species or dealing with tougher shots, it’s worth considering.

.243 Winchester

The .243 isn’t a “small” caliber in the traditional sense, but it works great for bobcats and foxes—especially when you’re also hunting coyotes or deer. It’s flat shooting, accurate, and widely available.

You’ll want to choose your bullets carefully if you’re keeping hides, but for knockdown power and flexibility, it’s hard to argue with a well-placed .243. It’s a do-it-all round that can cover more than just predator duty.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.