1 of 1 5.45x39 factory loads carry 250 ft·lb and expansion velocity for coyote; the best reach 500 yd (Hornady Hornady BLACK 60 gr V-MAX). Ranked, with the drop chart for each.
| Load | gr | Max ethical yd | MV fps | 500 yd ft·lb | Shoulder shot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hornady Hornady BLACK 60 gr V-MAX | 60 | 500 | 2,810 | 275 | behind the shoulder only |
Predator-size animals: 200–300 ft·lb is the quoted band. Placement is everything on a 5″ chest. Floor used: 250 ft·lb at impact plus the bullet's published expansion velocity. Orange = a target or varmint bullet (construction, not energy); red = never carries the energy. Sources: www.grandviewoutdoors.com.