What to Keep Loaded When You Hear Coyotes at Night

Coyotes aren’t always just passing through. If you’ve got livestock, pets, or even small children around, hearing that yip-yip-howling outside the window can put you on edge. Most of the time, they’ll keep their distance—but if they don’t, you want to be ready. Here are 10 guns that make sense to have loaded and close by when those nighttime howls start getting a little too close for comfort.

Mossberg 500 12-Gauge

This is a no-nonsense pump shotgun that’s been around the block. Load it with buckshot and you’ve got a solid solution for anything sniffing around too close. The action is smooth, and it’s dead simple to operate even if you’re half-asleep.

The spread from a 12-gauge gives you some forgiveness in the dark. If you’re stepping out to check what’s going on, this one gives you some peace of mind. It’s reliable, tough, and always gets the job done.

Ruger American Ranch Rifle in .223

If you’re in an area where you’ve got some space to work with, this bolt-action .223 is a great option. Light recoil, flat shooting, and enough punch to stop a coyote at 100 yards or more without tearing up the countryside.

It’s compact and easy to handle, even in tight spots like your porch or barn. Keep a mag loaded with soft points and you’re good to go. It’s quiet, accurate, and doesn’t draw too much attention.

Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22

If you’re just trying to scare off coyotes rather than shoot them, a .22 can do the trick. The M&P 15-22 is a semi-auto that handles just like a full AR-15, but it fires affordable .22 LR ammo. Easy to use, low recoil, and not too loud.

Throw on a flashlight and keep it by the door. It’s great for younger or less experienced shooters in the house who still need something they can handle safely and confidently.

Remington 870 Express

Another pump-action workhorse. The 870 has been a go-to for years because it just works. Load it with No. 4 buckshot or even slugs if needed. It’s got stopping power for just about anything that doesn’t belong in your yard.

The controls are simple, and the reliability is hard to beat. When something’s moving in the shadows and you need a quick response, the 870 won’t let you down.

Glock 19

It’s compact enough to carry on you, but still packs a punch with 15+1 rounds of 9mm. If you’re heading outside to check things out or just want something on your hip while you listen, the Glock 19 is a dependable option.

It’s not necessarily a first choice for taking shots at distance, but for close-quarters defense in a worst-case situation, it’s a solid pick that’s easy to shoot and easy to trust.

Henry Lever Action .22

If you grew up with a lever-action .22, you already know why it’s on this list. It’s quiet, accurate, and has enough punch to make a coyote think twice—especially with high-velocity rounds.

This is a great grab-and-go option if you’re dealing with nuisance coyotes that aren’t running in a pack. It’s also just a fun rifle to shoot and easy to operate under pressure.

AR-15 in .223/5.56

There’s a reason folks keep one near the door or behind the truck seat. With a 30-round mag and a red dot, you’ve got plenty of firepower to handle anything from a solo intruder to a pack.

It’s accurate, customizable, and familiar to a lot of shooters. If you’ve got a coyote problem that keeps coming back, this one gives you range, speed, and confidence.

Marlin 1895 in .45-70

This one’s for folks dealing with more than just coyotes—think hogs, big cats, or other serious predators. It’s definitely overkill for a single yote, but it’s comforting knowing what you’ve got in your hands.

The big lever gun hits hard and makes a lot of noise, which might be just the thing to keep the whole pack away for good. If you want power on tap, this one delivers.

Winchester SXP 20-Gauge

If you like the idea of a shotgun but want something a bit lighter, the SXP in 20-gauge fits the bill. It’s still got plenty of punch with the right load, but it’s easier to handle for smaller shooters.

It’s a great fit for those who want maneuverability without giving up effectiveness. Whether it’s birdshot for warning or buckshot for business, it covers a lot of ground.

CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1

This pistol-caliber carbine in 9mm gives you quick handling and easy control. Short, compact, and fun to shoot, it’s a great nightstand option when things go bump outside.

It’s ideal for close-range threats and offers a bit more stability than a standard handgun. Add a light, keep it loaded, and it’s ready for anything prowling too close after dark.

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