Coyote hunting doesn’t have to mean dropping a grand on a fancy rifle. Plenty of affordable bolt guns and semi-autos get the job done just fine—especially if you’re more focused on clean shots than showing off. The key is accuracy, manageable recoil, and something that won’t make you cry if it takes a scratch in the field. These budget-friendly rifles aren’t flashy, but they flat-out work when it’s time to call in dogs and pull the trigger.
Savage Axis II XP
The Axis II XP package gets you a surprisingly accurate bolt-action with a factory-mounted scope. The adjustable AccuTrigger is a standout at this price point.
It might not be a beauty queen, but it groups well with common .223 loads and handles like a champ in the field. If you’re hunting on a budget, this is an easy setup that doesn’t need much tweaking.
Ruger American Predator
This one shows up in a lot of coyote camps for a reason—it’s affordable, reliable, and accurate enough to pick off song dogs at 200+ yards.
Threaded for a suppressor or brake and chambered in solid varmint calibers like .204 Ruger and .243, the American Predator punches above its weight in performance. The factory stock isn’t fancy, but it works.
Mossberg Patriot Synthetic
The Patriot Synthetic keeps things simple but solid. Available in .243 or 6.5 Creedmoor, it’s more than capable of handling coyotes and longer shots.
It’s lightweight, easy to carry all day, and has a crisp trigger right out of the box. With a decent optic, this rifle’s ready to hit the field without draining your wallet.
Thompson/Center Compass II
The Compass II doesn’t get as much attention as some competitors, but it’s a budget sleeper. The bolt runs smooth and the trigger is adjustable and clean.
It’s available in coyote-friendly calibers like .223 and .22-250. T/C packed a lot of value into this rifle before the brand faded, and if you find one used, it’s a steal.
CVA Cascade
CVA’s Cascade took a lot of people by surprise. It’s not just a muzzleloader brand anymore—this bolt-action runs slick and shoots tight groups with factory ammo.
Threaded muzzle, good barrel options, and available in all the usual predator rounds. It’s a great crossover rifle that does double duty for deer or varmints.
Howa 1500 Hogue
The Howa 1500 has long been a solid performer, and the Hogue stock version brings excellent ergonomics to a sub-$600 rifle.
With chamberings like .223 and 6.5 Grendel, it’s a perfect low-recoil predator setup. The action is smooth, and accuracy is reliable once you find the load it likes.
Stevens 200
If you find a Stevens 200 on the used rack, don’t walk past it. It’s a basic version of the older Savage designs and still holds its own today.
Accuracy is typically better than expected, and you can upgrade the stock and trigger later if you want. It’s an old-school budget gun that still does work.
Remington 783
The 783 came in to replace the 770 and actually delivered. It’s not refined, but it’s reliable and shoots better than it should for the money.
Look for the .223 or .243 versions for coyotes. The trigger’s adjustable, and with a decent scope, this rifle has no problem punching paper or predators.
Rossi RS22M
If you’re hunting thick cover or want a short-range rimfire option, the RS22M in .22 Magnum can do the trick. It’s light, handy, and surprisingly accurate for the price.
No, it won’t reach out like a centerfire, but for close-in shots or trapping lines, this rifle’s better than you’d think. Plus, mags are cheap and easy to find.
Marlin X7 Series
Before the Remington-era collapse, the Marlin X7 rifles were solid budget rifles that nobody talked about. Lightweight, accurate, and simple—they’re still kicking around used.
If you can snag one in .243 or .25-06, it’ll make a great coyote rig. The triggers were decent, and they usually shot tight without much effort.
Winchester XPR
Winchester’s XPR rifle keeps it affordable without cutting too many corners. The short-action versions in .223 or .243 are perfect for predator duty.
The bolt is slick, the trigger’s not bad, and accuracy is better than you might expect. With a basic optic, you’ll be ready to hit the fields or fence lines in no time.
ATA Arms Turqua
This one flies under the radar but is gaining steam. The Turqua has a slick European look, comes with a threaded barrel, and performs well in .243 and .308.
It’s not well-known yet, but early reviews show solid accuracy and reliable function. If you want something a little different that still fits the “budget coyote gun” bill, this is worth checking out.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
