How to Choose an Upland Bird Hunting Shotgun

Choosing an upland bird hunting gun will depend on the birds and the location of your hunting grounds. Ideally, for example, quail hunting will require a different gun than shooting pheasants. A proper shotgun will also depend on your personal comfort. There are, however, common characteristics that a good upland shotgun should possess.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

How to Choose an Upland Bird Hunting Shotgun

1. Look for a gun that is easy to carry. Portability is very important. Because bird hunting involves a lot of walking and the ability to draw and shot very quickly, you will need to select a gun that is light enough to not weigh you down on your hunt. An ideal shotgun for upland hunting weighs around 7 lbs. Your size and overall strength will determine whether or not you can comfortably handle a larger gun. Keep in mind that if you do choose a heavier gun, you must be able to point and swing it accurately. The less a gun weighs the more kick or recoil it will produce.

2. Choose the proper length. A shotgun is not a shotgun is not a shotgun, if there is such a phrase. Some shotguns are longer than others while some are more compact. For upland hunting, a shotgun should be no longer than 4 feet. Again, if you are larger and stronger and feel that a slightly longer gun may be better for you, you may have success. However, some shotguns are simply too long for upland hunting.

3. Select the proper gauge. The gauge, or bore of a shotgun is simply a unit of measurement that indicates the diameter of the barrel. Gauge size is equal to the number of lead pellets, when compacted into a shell, measure the same as the barrel's diameter. Most upland hunters have an array of gauges they choose from. Some find success with gauges from 28 to 12. The most popular and perhaps the best is the 16 gauge. The 16 gauge shotgun will give you an adequate shot pattern, ideal for shooting quick birds on the fly at medium ranges.

Tips & Warnings

• Upland bird hunting is best done with a gun that shoots rounds very quickly. A gun with 3 to 5 shot capabilities. Single shot or double barrel shotguns may be require reloading, which is very time consuming. A "repeater" is, therefore recommended.
• Always seek the advice of a professional gunsmith if you have questions about guns and ammunition.
• Always make sure your gun fires properly before hunting. Shooting skeet or other target practice at a shooting range is recommended.

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