Laker: The 204 Ruger shoots much flatter and much straighter in the wind than does the 223 Remington (at the ranges you inquired regarding!).
I would refer you to page 131 of the Remington 2,102 catalog where you can compare the 204 Ruger sighted in at 200 yards with 40 grain bullets and then compare the 400 yard drop to the 223 sighted in at 200 yards with the 50 grain bullet - the 204 Ruger shoots 10.2" FLATTER out there at 400 yards than that 223 offering!
I often make the statement that if I were starting out in Varmint Hunting today (rather than 50 years ago!) I would only buy one caliber Rifle and one caliber ONLY for all around Varminting - and that would be in 204 Ruger!
I have to date never had a Coyote survive a single hit with any of my 204 Rugers (and any of the bullets I have used)!
The answer to your inquiry is 204 Ruger hands down!
Remember that the 52 grain Sierra's are VERY prone to ricochet so be careful of your background.
Best of luck with whichever you choose.
Hold into the wind
VarmintGuy
