I was hunting with a friend a year or two ago, and for some reason he had brought his 17hmr with the 20 grain rounds. I think he was going mainly for raccoons maybe? Anyway, he shot a coyote from less than fifty yards in the ribs, it dropped like it was down for the count, only to pop back up a couple of seconds later. A follow up shot from my 17 remington with 30 grain bergers did the trick. Anyway, my friend has not brought the hmr back out, and now sticks mainly with his .204 or 22-250. I agree with another post that mentioned that centerfire is the way to go. Also agree with the shot placement point, but kinda wonder why you would go out on a hunt knowing that your round is marginal for the job, if you have other options available. I guess to answer the OP's question, I think the 17hmr is too small for coyotes, but can work in the right hands and conditions.