Encore pistol .204 or .223

[Encoreman]

Hi guys, Need some advice. I shoot an Encore pistol and want either a .204 or .223 15" to shoot coyotes and prairie dogs. I have found a used .204 for $150. I already load for .223 and have a "few" pieces of brass. Is the recoil for the .204 that much less than .223. Need advice from you that have or have shot these 2. I know the .204 is haulin ice, but will the 15" pistol barrel be able to control all those horses. Thanks up front for your input into my next new "toy". Mac

 

[critter]

I have no experience with the .204. I do have an old Contender super 14" in .223 which I dearly love. It will shoot 3/8" groups at 100 yds bench rested. I have shot enough vermin with it to know it will work well in that application.

Since you already load for the .223, I think I'd go that route and work up a nice, accurate load for it. There seems to be quite a wide variety of bullet types available for it too.

Find a load it likes and go for it.

BUT, a new caliber is always fun!

 

[MNgunhead]

Either will work

I shoot p-dogs with a 204 in a full length rifle. The recoil is noticably lighter than the 223, due to bullet weight. (not that 223 kick much either) I would think in a short barrel pistol the 204 shooting 32 grain bullets would fling those little bullets with awesome velocity. 204 would get my vote. This assumes you reload, if not a reloader, stick with 223 to avoid going broke.

 

[hardluk1]

Are you going to handload? That changes things. 22 or 6mm benchrest or ppc rounds really opens up yardage. 223 if factory only.

 

[Ala Dan]

Another vote for the .204 Ruger; awesome little cartridge~!