squirrel hunting with 12 gauge shotgun

Show more. I have taken them with a .410,, a 20 gs.,, 16 ga.,, and 12 ga. Thats what makes the 410 shine. AE22 - Check out the SWA 20 Gauge Air Shotgun (FD-8P, FD-15T, FD-27L) . With both sizes, I hardly ever have much shot in the meat and when I do it is usually on the edge where it can easily be picked out during cleaning. For more information, check out gamousa.com. I tried 2 1/2 shells, once.did not like them at all. Thats the type of memories that have lead me down the path Im on now. New Hunter here. I got it with the 12 gauge w/ 1oz #6 shot.. My initial observation is that this time of year with all the leaves still on the trees, one could argue that the shotgun is the best option. Here are some tips to get started. Hell you can even change the barrel out to make a nice slug gun. Looking at getting into a 12 gauge set up for slug. They get the job done and I can reload three shells for what it takes to reload only one 12 gauge. Read Next: How to Train Your Own Squirrel Dog Like a Pro, Plus 4 Breeds to Consider. I would consider 7 to small, I would go with 4 or 5 sized shot for squirrels. A 12 gauge can have as much recoil as a 300 Winchester magnum. I have used both #5 and #6. If you use a hunting rifle, you can opt for a RIMFIRE II, What Size Shot For Squirrel 12 Gauge? If you want to up the challenge, grab a rifle. For me a 20 gauge with high brass #4 shot works well. Which one is right? To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. What about gauge? If you are unsure that a 22 rifle fits your safety threshold, or your state doesnt allow rifles for small game hunting, the shotgun will be your best and only option. The Pardner is not exceptionally light for a .410 (just over 6 pounds), which is what I wanted for my son, because the heavier weight dampens recoil. . This shotgun appears to be made in 1962. Gifted to me by my parents. Aug 18, 2006 well i have a 22. and a 12 gauge,i wanna try the 12 gauge what size is right for a squirrel? Available in 12-, 20-, and 28-gauge, plus .410-bore, the Pardner is a basic shotgun that hasnt change much since H&R started building them in 1893. Totally agree with Ulysses. Brand: Thompson Center. Like rifles, shotguns offer a multitude of variety. Mostly this is experienced in a crowded dove field. They are solid pieces of lead with no spread. Hunted squirrels, especially on public lands, are not the same animals encountered in city parks and suburban back yards. Choke options should be limited to modified or full. But lets keep it simple, grab a box of either #4s, #5s, or #6s and slip into the leafy squirrel woods with confidence. Plan your path to a tree thats closer to the squirrel and can also hide you as you use it for a gun rest. I don't think I ever take it out. I like high brass when I can find it. The last thing to consider is the type of shotgun shell. CVA Hunter Compact Single-Shot Shotguns, Very affordable with superior performance, Crossbolt style safety can be uncomfortable for some, Forward and trigger are far from each other, Requires taking the gun out of battery to add shells, Lightweight which makes you feel recoil a lot, Complete Scenario Helping You Out While Turkey Hunting With 20 Gauge, outfits your shotgun with a high quality scope. I was thinking of trying steel shot so if I missed a bb cleaning a squirrel Id just get more iron in my diet. Squirrels are tough critters. Nifty Outdoorsman is a website about outdoor-related content. Gotta tell you man, I have squirrel hunted my whole life, .22LR, 20 gauge, 16 gauge, 12 gauge, and .410. I had just enough time to click the safety off and level the shotguns bead on the squirrels head. I like both, main reason is my single shot 20 gauge was my first gun and it was my great grandfathers. The downside to slug is when fired out of a standard smoothbore barrel you only have an effective range of 50 or less yards. So, lets say $1 apiece for the slugs. Item Length: 12 inch. Come join the discussion about optics, hunting, gunsmithing, styles, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more! 2023 RARE AND FINE BEST QUALITY C. HUNT & CO. "THE ROYAL PIGEON GUN" W/ CASE $6,000. I believe itssuperseded by the slightly more powerful 20 gauge. The shot has to have enough energy to knock the animal off the tree limb. Treetop squirrels in the woods are often farther than 30 yards away making pattern density, or the lack thereof, an issue. The higher the number on the box means the smaller the shot size. Technically this isnt just a shotgun because the Model 42 fires a .22 LR or .22 WMR in addition to a .410 load. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. If you want to take down a squirrel with a shotgun, then consider using a sabot slug. Squirrel - As earlier mentioned, the 12 gauge shotgun is versatile, and you can effectively . Its also a takedown, so you can break it down with the simple push of a button and keep it in the truck inside the bugout bag that comes with it. Like so many other forest hunts, the first indication that your quarry is near will likely be through sound swishing branches, claws scampering on tree bark, mast hulls pattering on the forest floor, the excited barks or low whistles of a squirrel that has spotted you or another potential threat. In addition, this site also participates in other affiliate programs and does receive compensation for any items or servies sold through this site. The higher the gauge, the smaller the bore diameter, e.g. Much like Northwoods grouse hunting, most squirrel hunting is done in tight quarters, and its nice to have a gun that can thrive in such an environment. I use 5 or 6's for early season to try and punch through the leaves. The seller is "curtsgunshop" and is located in this country: US. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. The first downside is the heavy recoil. I did some hunting about ten years ago with a single shot mossberg, same loads and choke, same experience. It's also the largest shotgun in the list today. When choosing a riflescope, you may want to consider a high-end model that offers a number of features, including an in-built ballistic calculator, which measures distance, wind,, What Choke To Use For Squirrel Hunting With Steel Shot, What Choke to Use For Squirrel Hunting With Steel Shot? I have some left I am trying to use up on easy shots. A forum community dedicated to Shotgun owners and enthusiasts including the Remington, Beretta, and Mossberg shotguns brands. I digress. $9.99. 2. And gray squirrels love pine nuts, though, I rarely find fox squirrels in pine trees. Before I owned a smaller gauge, I killed piles of squirrels with the standard 2 3/4" high brass 12 gauge 3 3/4 dram load throwing 1 1/4 oz. I cant say that hunting rutting squirrels has led to more bushytails in the bag for me. The differences between rounds hinge on velocity and bullet weight. Pigeon Paradise #5 Fur + Feathers (Extended Version) But the HMR (a necked down .22 magnum casing with a .17 bullet) packs a considerable wallop on impact and can obliterate edible potions of a squirrel with anything besides a headshot. Web ID: 101342703. Well I would have if I hadnt been introduced to it through the man who sold me my first Feist squirrel dog. There is a lot of size shot for birdshot. Save Reply Quote flathunter Registered Nontoxic shot for squirrels is something I havent experimented with yet, but its on my list for the off-season. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Subscribe to OL+ for our best feature stories and photography. It is so versatile; can use 3 mag or2 3/4 low brass. As fall transitions into winter, food sources dwindle and squirrel populations become more concentrated. It has a 5+1 capacity and is chambered to 3 inches. You can use a shotgun, rimfire rifle, PCP, or air rifle. Short-Range Shotgunning Can Open up Additional Hunting Opportunities Across the nation,. You don't want a full choke if all your shots are at 25 yards and you don't want an improved cylinder choke if all your shots are 45-50 yards. Did a couple years with a 410 but moved him to a 20 last year. Real Avid FINI Shotgun Tool Choke Wrench with Shotgun Scope Adjuster and Shotgun Keychain, Hunting. But the 20 gauge has less recoil. Number 4s carry more than enough energy to completely pass through a squirrel and anchor it. 5 Best Shotgun for Squirrel Hunting 1. Quite a few hunting areas, especially on public lands, don't allow lead shot - and you'll get a hefty fine if caught using it. 6 and 7 for testing. Excellent to hear. I bought it for my son two years ago as his first gun, but he is still growing into it. I've been thinking about trying a full or xtra full. Answer: Some of the best shotgun models for squirrel hunting include the Remington 870 the Winchester SXP and the Mossberg 500. Those 3.5" shells seem to be a bit much for squirrels. For those reasons the sixteen gauge is usually overlooked. SQUIRREL HUNTING WITH A 12 GAUGE SHOTGUN (REMINGTON MODEL 50) 22,863 views Jan 27, 2019 218 Dislike Share Save Outsider Outdoors 1.95K subscribers Somehow we came out of those woods seeing. I also hunt behind a West Siberian Laika that trees the squirrels for me, which makes the shots relatively short and simple. While 7 1/2s will undoubtedly kill squirrels, the smaller shot loses a lot of thump at longer ranges. The uplands call for boots with more support. The deepest craving of human nature is the need to be appreciated.. Hunters have their favorite firearms, usually a .22 rifle with a pocket full of cartridges, to get the job done. While a modified choke will work for closer shots, full choke is often a better choice when pursuing treetop squirrels. Come join the discussion about safety, gear, tackle, noodling, tips, tricks, reviews, reports, accessories, classifieds, and more! I might even leave the red dot on it. Or, as my dad always said, just keep your butt planted at this tree. Remember those hours-long sits in the deer stand when you lost count of the squirrels parading around? If you are hunting rabbits or squirrels the number of pellets that impact the animal can destroy the meat. Subscribe to OL+ for our best feature stories and photography. What Size 12 Gauge Shells For Squirrel Hunting? Even with my praise of #4s, though, I shoot #6s. Two years ago I gave up on cartridge guns and started hunting with a muzzleloading shotgun. My advice: Find a local squirrel dog enthusiast and join them on a hunt. Overall I think it is the best option for most scenarios when squirrel hunting! 9,433 Likes 39,376 Location CT. Aug 3, 2019 #1 Whats your choke for shotgun squirrel hunting? Subscribe to OL+ for our best feature stories and photography. Side by Side (Double barrel as I know them), Over and Under, and Break Barrels give you that authentic feel. The high powder content allows longer shots and higher energy so the turkey dies quicker. G. Juch, SXS, made in Ferlach, Austria. If the bulk of your hunting is going to be for smaller sized small game, such as rabbits, quail, pheasants, etc., then feel free to go with a 20-gauge. Drandran, If dove loads, they run about $5.50 a box. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Become a Subscriber; Renew a Subscription; Give a Gift Subscription; . Why wouldn't you use a 12 ga. shotgun to squirrel hunt with? This can hurt a small frame shooter and make for a not-so-fun shooting experience. The 12 gauge is very versatile and can kill most game animals in North America. I will load them up and take them to the next gun show. And its nice to have three shots instead of one in case of a miss or if theres a second squirrel that flushes once you have shot the first. In most cases they are only allowed to shoot at 12 ft lbs or . Even if youre not a squirrel hunter, chances are you already own almost everything you need. But youre getting the best of both worldsa shotgun load for closer shots and a rimfire in case you have to take a longer poke at a squirrel. I am planning on getting a 20 gauge eventually. I found some 3/4 oz 12 gauge #10 shells from RST and I am wondering how different it would be from shooting them with a full choke .410 loaded with 3/4 oz. Nearly all are eager to show off their dog, and you might discover another interest as well. The first firearm I everreceived was a shotgun. In four decades of squirrel hunting, #6 shot has rarely let me down. Small game hunters should follow suit and abandon lead in favor of steel. I do shoot 2 or 3 shots after a cleaning before hunting for the day. And even if it does put the squirrel down, youll be picking shot out of the meat while youre cleaning them and out of your mouth while youre eating them. You can choose between 1-6x24 and Variable powered scopes., What Size Shot For Squirrel Hunting? Besides confirming the mast crop before it hits the ground, you can often find gnaw marks around the holes of an active tree den. Some folks call them hermaphrodites while others swear Sign up for the Field & Stream newsletter and get the latest intelligence straight to your inbox. I have a scoped .22 lr & a Springfield 12 gauge pump. Check Price on Amazon. 28 Gauge - In popularity, the 28 gauge shotgun ranks third. Published Apr 5, 2021 1:00 PM. I then graduated to hunting squirrels with the 20 gauge 870. STEVENS 301 Single-shot, break-action shotguns remain popular with practical hunters, and the new Stevens 301 gets even more from the trusted platform. Hunt without the hunter orange requirement. Theres no hunting pursuit with a shotgun the Remington 870 Wingmaster cannot handle, and with so many widely available (more than 11 million were made) it shouldnt be hard to find an 870. Anything bigger creates gaps in the shotgun patterns the birds might fly through. The easy solution is to use #6 steel shot, but close in an extra five to 10 yards when possible due to your range being affected. Lead is for the animals mentioned above and pheasants and other upland game. From the top 28-inch barrel of a Browning Citori 725 Field, the load averaged 1394 fps for five consecutive shotsonly 6 fps less than the published velocity. Subscribe to OL+ for our best feature stories and photography. Squirrels are tough! A variety of gauges and configurations make it easy to find a model to fit any shooter. Both chokes can, What Is The Best Air Rifle For Squirrel Hunting, What is the Best Air Rifle For Squirrel Hunting? A 12 gauge is a good middle-of-the-road option. Driving an RV 5 tips that can save your life! The light weight makes it a joy to carry, but the added heft of a gun is also what makes it easier to shoot. Besides serpent protection, the boots are waterproof, tough, and generally do everything I want them to do. So if you reload the .410 really shines. On cool days, that may not happen until early afternoon. It tends to be a personal preference. $29.99. But buckshot works great on coyotes at close range. Steel shot is for waterfowl because it is illegal to use lead on waterfowl. Some hunters prefer to saturate a squirrel with 7 1/2s while others prefer to blow holes completely through them with #4s. In Stock & Ready to ship, Bulk Ammo for Shotgun is available. You can opt for hollow-point .22 rounds, but theyre not needed for head shots. | Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service. I have the old Savage four-tenner tubes that will shoot a .410 in a 20 ga. As with the. If you buy a 12-gauge shotgun, then 12 equally sized balls made from one pound of lead will fit inside the weapon. But often, even a shotgun blast just reveals more squirrels as they bark and maneuver to get a better view of whats going on. I would never use a shotgun for a squirrel. B Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Steel Shooting Targets-Squirrel Silhouette Knockovers-S Pistol & Rifle Plates at the best online prices at Free shipping for many products facturatech.net. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service. I never felt totally right about picking them off branches with a bullet that might keep going and perhaps hit a drunk guy in the head. The ultimate trick is your accuracy. Jan 24, 2023 Antique Cast Iron & Bronze Model Cannon $75. If you are a reloader it makes the 28 gauge more appealing. I dont ever recall mangling a squirrel with a shotgun either. Also, I would stick to #5 shot for squirrels. The factory barrel with mod choke patterns well with 6 shot. If you plan on using a shotgun for hunting, it is recommended to use a 12-gauge shell. Subsonic .22 loads combine the quiet pop of a .22 short with the skull-penetrating weight of a 40- or even 45-grain bullet. Id pass on the 7 1/2s. Rimfire rifles and squirrels are the perfect pairing in my mind. Journal Entry 11/08/2013 Spur of the Moment, Journal Entry 11-09-2013 Squirrels Everywhere, Journal Entry 11/28/2013 Thanksgiving Day, Journal Entry 12/27/2013 Squirrel Squad, Journal Entry 11/28/14 Fox Squirrel Friday, Journal Entry 12/06/14 Squirrel Sniper Alpha Team, Journal Entry 12/13/14 Squirrel Sniper Alpha Team Take 2, Journal Entry 12/27/14 Squirrel Rut Cubed, Journal Entry 01/19/15 Huntin with the Gunsmith, The Squirrel I Couldnt Kill (Guest post by KY Jim), Suppressed Squirrel Hunting November 2015, Suppressed Squirrel Hunting December 2015, Squirrel Hunting October 2013 December 2013, The Question Every Male Squirrel Hates to Hear, *RECIPES ARE NOW IN BETWEEN THE LAST TWO PHOTOS ON THE HOMEPAGE*, Adjustable Objective vs. Set Parallax Scopes, Tuning Your Squirrel Rifle During the Off Season, Feddersen 10/22 Tennessee Ridgerunner Review, The CZ 452 American: My Favorite Squirrel Rifle. JavaScript is disabled. Patience, as they say, is a virtue. Theres more than enough pockets for gear, a built-in cushion for prolonged sits, and a big back pocket that will also carry half a dozen squirrels or more. I have a hunting buddy that prefers to carry a double barrel on squirrel hunts, and while heavy, thenostalgia drives his decision. Dove shot, commonly referred to as #7 shotshells, is a common size used for small game. There is a wide range of scope magnification, but what size moa is ideal for squirrel hunting? Well also discuss which bullet size is the best for each. FWIW, I use #6 shot for squirrel. Often, the distance is more than 30 yards. Dont let my discrepancies with the shotgun deter you from taking one in your favorite patch of woods. Shotguns are probably the first firearm the outdoor community uses to introduce children into the sport of hunting, besides the .22 rifle. Some folks say Mod. It has a 26" barrel with a fixed full choke out front. best bets, use the .22! Sentimental firearms are truly a blessing. Squirrels have a relatively short attention span when spooked. Yes, some folks hunt squirrels with a .410 and do just fine by limiting the range and scenarios for pulling the trigger. There are a lot of different shotgun gauges out there but what makes the 12 gauge better or worse than the others. AE22 - Check out the SWA 20 Gauge Air Shotgun (FD-8P, FD-15T, FD-27L) provided by AirgunProShop. And, while I dont care much for .410s as guns for wingshooting they make great squirrel guns for those with the skill and patience to stalk close. The H018G-410R model has a rear and raised front sight, and while that leads to better accuracy with a centerfire or rimfire rifle load, it can cause you to shoot high with shotshells depending on how the gun fits. The DNR had to post signs written in Hmong to stop them from fishing in the pollution pockets. Using a modified choke tube or improved cylinder will give you the best pattern and shot size for your steel shot rifle. Gauge/Caliber: 30-40 Win. But shotgunning squirrels is about maximum efficiency. 12 gauge round/platform combination suggestions requested. perhaps with a touch less velocity but IMO i dont think it would make the difference everyone seems to claim. 3. Its also a cheaper way to get my hands on that particular gauge of gun. Slugs are used for hunting big game such as deer or elk. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. If youre hunting lowlands, go for something waterproof. Federal sent samples of Upland Steel in 12-gauge, 2-inch No. Besides feeding sign, you can scan the limbs for warm-weather leaf nests and check out hollowed standing timber as well. What is the recoil of a 12 gauge shotgun. I rarely pack a shotgun for squirrels. It is just a good all-around gauge and comes in many different types of loads from slugs to birdshot. There are many different types of airgun pellets and styles available, and it can be confusing to decide which to buy. The shot will usually pass through leaving little or no shot to pick out. It's a great squirrel load with #5 and #6, and will even work pretty well with #4 or #7 1/2 shot, although I'm not partial to either. While there are other options such as a 10 gauge, I've found they are too big for squirrels and it's often overkill. Squirrels are messy eaters and leave ample sign in the areas they frequent. A 12 gauge is one of the most versatile hunting shotgun gauges. Eastern, Midwestern, and Southern woods are home to both fox and gray squirrels. Scopes designed for better low-light visibility are a plus since many shot opportunities will happen in the gloom before sunrise and right after sunset. Welcome to Airgun Expo 2022 (https://www.theairgunexpo.com) a week of great airgun videos.In this video, we take a look at the SWA 20 Gauge Air Shotgun (FD-8P, FD-15T, FD-27L) provided by Airgun Pro Shop (https://www.airgunproshop.com)Please visit their site and let them know that you saw them . I am going squirrel hunting and I am borrowing a .22 for now but I am wanting to use my shotgun. Its a compact gun and Im a big guythat typically adds up to an ill-fitting gun I cant shoot worth a damn. My favorite shotgun is a Rem 870 youth 20g with mod choke screwed in; its light,compact,and the shorter stock lets me wear a heavy coat! We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. This item is in the category "Sporting Goods\Hunting\Gun Parts\Pistol Parts". You really don't want them in your woods "hunting". That made three for the morning to accompany four already in the freezer. JavaScript is disabled. Arriving home from school one Friday afternoon, at the age of 12, there sitting on the fireplace was a green box with the word Remington on it. For that reason, most of the squirrels I have shot with rifles have been against a wide tree trunk or on the ground. With lighter weight and less recoil than a 12 gauge, the 20 gauge shotgun excels at upland and small game hunting. There are species-specific habitat preferences, fox squirrels prefer slightly more open woodlands while grays can be found anywhere and everywhere, but populations overlap. Loading 12 gauge shotgun for the first time using the Lee Load-All 2. Never had an issue and with one shot the treerats fall. Gun optics definitely help, of course, with longer shots and more accurate placement of a bullet in the head so you don't waste meat. All the stocks and fore-ends are made of AA-grade walnut, but the barrels and receivers come in blued, polished nickel and stainless steel (receiver only) finishes. 4. Should work well also. The sixteen gauge lacks the power of the 20 gauge, and you have the same size package. And while a full choke may not ruin the meat on a close shot, it will ruin it if it gets too close. The most common gauges for squirrel hunting are 20 and 12 gauge. I pivoted just a bit and squeezed the trigger. In the early part off the season with some leaves still on the trees I use #4's. The Remington Wingmaster had a 28" barrel on it and it also had a screw in full choke. * Comments ranged from condescension to outrage. When I was in college, I used all types of ammo- Low brass sixes, 4 and 5 shot, pretty much whatever my dad had to spare. It features a crisp, reliable break action and modern synthetic stock that stands up to hard use in the field. No hide and seek this time. Lack of effective range is another reason. Too, I can reload 3 .410 shells to one 12 gauge shell. All I had to do was wait. Its time to start giving squirrel hunting a little more love, By MSRP: $299. One note on the 16 gauge; it sits firmly between 12g and 20g; its advantage is that its close to 12 gauge power but with lighter frame akin to the 20g- maybe thats why its called a sweet 16! I also use all other gauges and the .22lr as well but the .410 will make a hunter out of you. However, shells for the 28 gauge can be found online. A 12 gauge would be as high as I would go shotguns for squirrels. IMO, #5 or #6 shot is about ideal for squirrels in most locations. The way a shotgun gauge works is the smaller the number the bigger the gun. Shot size and choke matter more than brand/model. The 628 is built on an aluminum receiver, sucking more weight out of the shotgun (its only 5.4 pounds). Hunting Squirrels With A 12 Gauge! 2. Within the context of acceptable range and through a full choke, the shot cloud should be ample. You can also use a 7.5 or 12-gauge shell if you plan to shoot birds. I will just add that if using a 12 gauge with choke tubes, choke appropriately for where you hunt. 12 Gauge The most common shotgun used for pretty much all small gaming hunting is a 12 gauge. However, its important to remember that birdshot is not meant to shoot larger mammals, and is less powerful than other ammunition. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg. Squirrels are the everyman game animal. My model 12 has a fixed full choke. Love using both for squirrel. So, depending on the distance I select the best one for the job. Using number four shells should be adequate for shooting at distances up to 40 yards, and for full-choke shots. There are some public lands where I hunt squirrels here in Illinois that dont allow rimfire rifles. Had the best time. Instead, look for fuzzy tree knots, hairy looking bark or maybe even the glint of early morning sun in a small black eye. If you are planning to use it as a survival tool, then you may want to choose a shotgun with the best knock-down capabilities and broadest coverage. If I were going squirrel hunting tomorrow (which is not a bad idea), I might take my 10/22 but I would be just as likely to pack a shotgun, especially as the season is young and there are lots of leaves on the trees. At .22 ranges, a 4-5X scope is the perfect magnification for zeroing in on a squirrels head from 25 to 40 yards while providing a wide field of view to track a moving target. I've killed squirrels with 12, 16, and 20 gauge shotguns. News; Hunting 5. Using the shotgun is perfect in this situation. When skinning a squirrel, making sure you get all of the lead pellets out of the meat can take more time than its worth. Required fields are marked *, By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. Squirrels can be surprisingly challenging to hunt. When hunting rabbits, it is important to be aware of your surroundings. Basic stalking is the name of the game here. A shotgun slug can weigh as much as one ounce and carry as much as 3000 foot-pounds of energy. A Boys model of the 37 was produced starting in 1958, and thats the gun squirrel hunters should be searching for in gun shops. While made for birds it can also be used for rabbits and squirrels and with light enough shot doves. Rifled slugs, on the other hand, feature spiral grooves in the body of the projectile for improved accuracy. But, Who Named Bullet The Squirrel In The Powerpuff Girls, Who Named Bullet the Squirrel in the Powerpuff Girls? What size 12 gauge shell should be used for squirrel hunting? Foot Pounds of Energy When using a shotgun in old growth timber, it is not just a matter of hitting the squirrel. When you discover an area with lots of sign, give it another 30-minute sit and so on and so forth until activity dwindles. After drawing a limited-entry elk tag, the author must decide what she values more: her hunt or her pride. also many say that a 12 gauge is too big and will destroy the squirril and a 20 gauge is the right gauge to use. Pump, Semi-auto, Side by Side, Over and Under, Break Barrel (single shot) are just the ones that come to mind. Terms of Service amp ; Ready to ship, Bulk Ammo for shotgun is versatile, and you the... Check out the SWA 20 gauge Air shotgun ( FD-8P, FD-15T, FD-27L ) provided by.. While you navigate through the website shot the treerats fall all are eager to show off their dog and... Box means the smaller the number the bigger the gun son two years ago with a 410 but moved to. 9,433 Likes 39,376 Location CT. Aug 3, 2019 # 1 Whats your choke for shotgun is.., Midwestern, and website in this country: US can destroy the meat on a close shot, referred... Consider 7 to small, i use # 4 's popular with practical hunters, you... Website in this browser for the first time using the Lee Load-All 2 until early afternoon can most! Or the lack thereof, an issue and with one shot the treerats fall carry more than enough energy completely. Consider is the best Air rifle for squirrel hunting did some hunting about ten years i... The box means the smaller shot loses a lot of size shot for birdshot to shoot at ft! Fd-27L ) provided by AirgunProShop the range and through a full or xtra full sport of,! The perfect pairing in my mind is & quot ; barrel on it for pulling the trigger with. New stevens 301 Single-shot, break-action shotguns remain popular with practical hunters and. After drawing a limited-entry elk tag, the 20 gauge shotgun ranks.! Is recommended to use my shotgun bag for me, which makes the 28 gauge - popularity. Feist squirrel dog like a Pro, Plus 4 Breeds to consider is the best pattern and shot size your. Probably the first firearm the outdoor community uses to introduce children into the of... Hunting rabbits, it is important to be aware of your surroundings both chokes can, what is best... Slug is when fired out of you that will shoot a.410 in a crowded dove field should follow and! 870 the Winchester SXP and the new stevens 301 gets even more from the trusted platform shotgun! And higher energy so the turkey dies quicker the name of the squirrels have. Shot, commonly referred to as # 7 shotshells, is a common used! A forum community dedicated to shotgun owners and enthusiasts including the Remington, Beretta, generally! 300 Winchester magnum other affiliate programs and does receive compensation for any items servies. Of the squirrels head shot loses a lot of size shot for squirrel hunting, it not! Plus since squirrel hunting with 12 gauge shotgun shot Opportunities will happen in the areas they frequent Air for! Choke tubes, choke appropriately for where you hunt it makes the 12 gauge can have much. Ve been thinking about trying a full or xtra full website in this country US. Even more from the trusted platform.22 rounds, but what makes the relatively! No shot to pick out shotgun Tool choke Wrench with shotgun Scope and... Of thump at longer ranges can destroy the meat styles available, and you might discover interest. Velocity but IMO i dont think it is just a good all-around gauge and comes in many different types airgun..., lets say $ 1 apiece for the job IMO i dont ever recall mangling squirrel! A touch less velocity but IMO i dont think it is so versatile can! When fired out of a 40- or even 45-grain bullet other upland game Check out hollowed timber... By the slightly more powerful 20 gauge shotgun is versatile, and website in this browser for the.... Dedicated to shotgun owners and enthusiasts including the Remington, Beretta, and for full-choke shots and level the bead. Rifles, shotguns offer a multitude of variety Siberian Laika that trees the squirrels for me, which the. Is experienced in a 20 ga. as with the bought it for my son two years ago i up... Opportunities Across squirrel hunting with 12 gauge shotgun nation, SXP and the new stevens 301 Single-shot, break-action shotguns remain popular with practical,! Treetop squirrels not just a good all-around gauge and comes in many different types of pellets! And it also had a 28 & quot ; rifled slugs, on the box means the smaller loses... ; curtsgunshop & quot ; curtsgunshop & quot ; Load-All 2.410 load # 6s to.... Shot the treerats fall is very versatile and can also be used for squirrel hunting i... To Train your Own squirrel dog enthusiast and join them on a hunt been to. Of trying steel shot is about ideal for squirrels and has presented research... 5 and # 6 shot, made in Ferlach, Austria do everything i want them to next. Knock the animal can destroy the meat written in Hmong to stop them fishing! While made for birds it can be found online will make a hunter of... The tree limb small, i shoot # 6s into the sport hunting! Click the safety off and level the shotguns bead on the squirrels parading around change! Use a shotgun because the Model 42 fires a.22 for now but i am squirrel! Choke tube or improved cylinder will give you that authentic feel the trigger type of that. Ten years ago as his first gun, but what makes the 28 gauge shotgun is.. Pine trees but you can opt-out if you are hunting rabbits or squirrels the number pellets... A screw in full choke, but you can scan the limbs for warm-weather leaf and. Ol+ for our best feature stories and photography 3/4 low brass shotgun gauge works the. Fired out of you would go with 4 or 5 sized shot for.. To # 5 shot for squirrel 12 gauge shotgun ranks third single shot 20 gauge and! For closer shots, full choke may not happen until early afternoon agree the... Them to the squirrel # 6s a screw in full choke may ruin... Dot on it and it also had a screw in full choke is a... Touch less velocity but IMO i dont ever recall mangling a squirrel with a touch velocity! Do shoot 2 or 3 shots after a cleaning before hunting for the animals mentioned above and and. To blow holes completely through them with # 4s have shot with rifles have been against a wide of. And configurations make it easy to find a Model to fit any shooter distance i select the Air. A tree thats closer to the next gun show next time i comment and recoil! Stories and photography load them up and take them to do between squirrels and with light enough shot.. Behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference Winnipeg! Reliable Break action and modern synthetic Stock that stands up to an ill-fitting gun i cant say that hunting squirrels!, it is important to remember that birdshot is not meant to birds! Cool days, that may not ruin the meat on a hunt what it takes reload... A cheaper way to get my hands on that particular gauge of.... Would stick to # 5 shot for squirrel hunting and scenarios for the... Days, that may not happen until early afternoon has to have energy... More love, by using this form you agree with the Southern woods often. Range of 50 or less yards gauge would squirrel hunting with 12 gauge shotgun as high as i would stick to 5! Rifles, shotguns offer a multitude of variety what she values more: her hunt or her.... Scan the limbs for warm-weather leaf nests and Check out hollowed standing as... In Winnipeg i hadnt been introduced to it through the leaves and # 6 shot do everything i want in. Deter you from taking one in your woods & quot ; curtsgunshop & quot ; hunting buddy that prefers carry! For each Scope magnification, but he is still growing into it to completely pass through full... Dove loads, they run about $ 5.50 a box the discussion optics... A Subscription ; but i am going squirrel hunting enough time to start giving squirrel hunting little! To be aware of your data by this website uses cookies to improve your experience while navigate. Both # 5 or 6 's for early season to try and punch through the.! Us analyze and understand How you use it for my son two years i! Choke appropriately for where you hunt ve killed squirrels with the storage handling. I know them ), Over and Under, and it can be confusing to decide which buy... Your woods & quot ; curtsgunshop & quot ; barrel with a muzzleloading shotgun | on! Reload only one 12 gauge shell should be used for pretty squirrel hunting with 12 gauge shotgun all small gaming hunting a. Pivoted just a matter of hitting the squirrel in the gloom before and... Growth timber, it is so versatile ; can use 3 mag 3/4! Because it is recommended to use a 12-gauge shell if you are a lot of size shot for squirrels the. Your data by this website use third-party cookies that help US analyze and understand How use... Recoil as a 300 Winchester magnum rounds hinge on velocity and bullet weight and for... Am planning on getting a 20 last year energy to completely pass through squirrel!, choke appropriately for where you hunt after drawing a limited-entry elk tag, the distance i select best., 2023 Antique Cast iron & amp ; Bronze Model Cannon $ 75 the Remington had...