12 Gauge for Squirrels

[lilcrackshot]

I was told by a guy in a gunshop that a 12 gauge is a horrible squirrel gun because there are so many pellets and each one has to use up so much energy and a bunch of technical stuff that I couldn't quite understand. You guys think the 12 gauge is OK for squirrel/rabbit?

[Colorado Bob]

It's the best IMO. #4 is good squirrel shot. #6 is my choice for rabbits. CB

[brownie65]

12 gauge works great for squirrel. I have used one for years.

[Squirrelbuster]

I think anything from a .410 up to a 12 guage is a fine squirrel shotgun. It just depends on the level of difficulty you are looking for. The first squirrel I shot with a shotgun was with a 12 guage with improved-cylinder choke while bird hunting. I shot him at about 20 yards or so and he didn't die right off. I had to look for him because he ran off. So I would recommend, even with a 12 guage to use at least a mod. choke.

[Tominator]

I don't squirrel hunt anymore, but yeah, a 12 is fine. A little overkill IMHO, but, it will work.

I prefered a .22 when I did hunt them, just seemed to be a bit more challenging.

[DSGB]

Like Tominator, I prefer a .22 for squirrels, but a 12 gauge will do fine. Just aim a little in front of his nose so that you don't pepper the whole body.

[Squirrelhunter91]

Use a 2 3/4 " shell with #6 shot and you should be fine.

[hunter336]

A 12 gauge works great when the leaves are still on the trees. A 2 3/4" #4 is what I would recommend. If you want a bit more challenge then go with the .22 like Tominator and DSGB said.

[David_218]

[ QUOTE ]
I was told by a guy in a gunshop that a 12 gauge is a horrible squirrel gun because there are so many pellets and each one has to use up so much energy and a bunch of technical stuff that I couldn't quite understand. You guys think the 12 gauge is OK for squirrel/rabbit?

[/ QUOTE ]

I personally use a .410 3" #5 shot for Squirrels when not using a rifle. I have used 12 gauges for Squirrels & Rabbits, but found it too destructive, unless it is a light 1 oz load in a modified choke. # 6 or 7 1/2 shot seems to works fine in the 12.

[PAhardwoods]

I've used a 12 ga for years and it works great. I have been thinking about getting a 410 winchester model 9410 just for something diffrent


Cody

[too_pointer]

Geez, dead is dead The squirrel won't care !!
Yes, a 12 guage throws alot more pellets, but just aim a little high on his head and not throw the whole pattern on him.
too_pointer

[David_218]

[ QUOTE ]
I've used a 12 ga for years and it works great. I have been thinking about getting a 410 winchester model 9410 just for something diffrent


Cody

[/ QUOTE ]

While the little Winchester M-9410 is a neat shotgun, you might consider buying a .410 that fires a 3" shell instead of the 2.5" shell. My experience with the 2.5" shell is that it is not very good for hunting due to it's light 1/2 oz load and limited range. Also the Winchester M-9410 cost around $500 new and you could buy a 3" firing .410 shotgun for a lot less.

[Shaun_300]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
I've used a 12 ga for years and it works great. I have been thinking about getting a 410 winchester model 9410 just for something diffrent


Cody

[/ QUOTE ]

While the little Winchester M-9410 is a neat shotgun, you might consider buying a .410 that fires a 3" shell instead of the 2.5" shell. My experience with the 2.5" shell is that it is not very good for hunting due to it's light 1/2 oz load and limited range. Also the Winchester M-9410 cost around $500 new and you could buy a 3" firing .410 shotgun for a lot less.

[/ QUOTE ]

yup, i definetly agree with David on this one. i have a little over-and-under .410, the 3" will shoot a lot better than the 2 1/2". i tried a Remington 1100 in 28ga, now i plan on buying one! you should consider an 1100 in 28ga or .410, they are a great little gun!

[spyderpancake]

you can definitely use a 12ga on squirrels, but i prefer the challenge of a .22 or my .17hmr. with a shotgun you have to pick the hair out of all the hundreds of little holes in the body-it is just too much trouble. You will have a lot more fun, and learn to shoot better, if you use a rifle.

[longislandhunter]

12 gauge is great for squirrels, been using one for a long time. I usually use #5 shot. The hide on the bushytails is so thick you'll usually find that most of the pellets never make it all the way throught the skin, or if they do they are just underneath and easy to remove.