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Hi, so I haven't been grouse hunting for almost 20 years. I used to have a single 12g but found that too much for upland hunt. Would like a 410 but ammo, hard to get? Is it the pandemic or just not vailable? So I have been trying to get a 20g pump action with a improved choke. Trying to get a used one. Newer shotguns feel bad. Anyone have any ideas on the best grouse shotgun set up? Should I not give up on the 410? Thanks.
Best is what works for you. Started with a 12g, hunted with a 20g for years, have a .410 that is up for sale, just picked up a 28g this season. If I was heading out tomorrow first choice would be the 28g.
haven't hunted grouse in a long time, but I'd think 410 not great for them unless you are far up north where they are still stupid. 410 great rabbit and squirrel gun. You are smart to consider the shells before you buy any gun. a lot of 410's out there now but no shells for them.
I hunted Grouse for decades with a 12ga. Last year,I bought my first O/U 20 ga. My thoughts on whether it was a smart buy? "Honey,where have you been all my life?" It's been a game changer.
For me, you can't go wrong with the 20 gauge. You can get anything from 7/8 oz target loads for up close, to 1 1/4 oz heavy loads for longer shots. As the season progresses, the needs change. With leaves on the trees, the shots are normally close and call for an open choke and light shot for full patterns. As the leaves drop and the shots get longer, this often requires a slightly tighter choke and heavier shot. #8 is great for close work but the shot is too light to hold it's killing power at more distant targets. With the heavier shot, I like to increase the "payload" in the shell to keep the pellet count up. For this reason, I suggest you look for a multichoke gun. This gives you more options. This is also the reason I prefer a double barrel. I literally carry two different length shells with two different shot sizes and two different payloads. Early season, I run improved cylinder/modified. Now, I'm running modified/improved modified.
"Partridge" is the commonly used (particularly in the north) vernacular term for Ruffed Grouse, so I'm guessing you are talking about one in the same. Hungarian Partridge used to be more common in huntable populations in parts of Ontario (particularly eastern Ontario), so perhaps you are in fact talking about both species of birds.
I'm going to assume that you will be hunting without a bird dog and that you will be taking birds in both the "pre-flight position" and on the wing, depending on what opportunities should arise. I would stay away from .410 (it will handicap you on wing shots) and recommend a 20ga choked IC (or IC tube). The best gun is the one that fits you (that's a whole other subject), regardless of action. Just make sure if you get a 20 ga that it carries like one (generally 6.5lbs or less). Myself I'm partial to SxS shotguns, but if I was buying a new grouse gun today and I was on a budget, I would consider the Turkish-made SxSs or semi-autos in 20ga. Good luck!
When you say too much for upland what are you talking about weight or kick. Just curious because I hunt with a 12 and my gun is light or I’m just used to it lol and I find upland load hardly kicks at all.Quote:
Originally Posted by Smed63
Think I found a new favorite description.Quote:
Originally Posted by ninepointer
Ah young grasshopper add 10 years and see if you are still carrying the 12g.Quote:
Originally Posted by tom gobble
Right now it’s incredibly difficult to find 410 shells for a decent price. As many have mentioned, this gauge is not well suited for shooting birds inflight. If your style of hunting is walking old atv trails and logging roads for stationary birds the 410 will do.
A pump 20 as you mentioned will do the job just fine. You will have more opportunities for more game (deer, ducks, grouse, rabbits, bear, turkey). Shells are more accessible and at a more reasonable price. Plus there’s lots of choice in the weights she shot sizes.
I think it all comes down to proper fit. Either the gun comes up smooth and comfortable, allowing for quick target acquisition or it doesn’t. Is it heavy or light? What action best suits your hunting style. Are you walking all day, or driving around to various locations.
The best set up is the one that is tailored to you. Go try a bunch out at your local gun shop.
I hunt exclusively with my 12 gauge pump. Not ideal but it's what I have. Ideally I'd like a 20 or 28 gauge over/ under. Just can't part with the money lol. But I'm getting real sick of lugging a 12 gauge through cover that's hard enough to get through empty handed. If I was you I'd be all over that .410
That’s why I said ( or I might just be used to it) a 12 gauge is all I ever used, so I have nothing to compare it too. Like you said we will see later in life but until then the 12 will be by my sideQuote:
Originally Posted by finsfurfeathers
I was fortunate enough back in 2008 to get my hands on a Ithaca 20 ga. O/U model #500 made by SKB under licence for Ithaca back in the 60's and she reigns supreme in my gun safe along with the exact same in 12 gauge as her consort. I did own the Stoeger O/U 20/12 gauge combo barrel set ( separate O/U barrels in 12 and 20 ga.) found it a bit heavy as it was built on the 12 gauge frame but a regular 20 ga. O/U from them would probably be nicer (lighter ?) I would also consider a Stevens SxS in 20 ga. as they may be more available in the Used category compared to their model 555 O/U that will cost you a grand.
BINGO!! What he said. I bought my Stevens 555 through Cabela's on sale. Best gun I've ever used for upland.Quote:
Originally Posted by longpointer
same here only difference 28g and Bass pro, still waiting on the rebate check thoughQuote:
Originally Posted by trimmer21
Love those Ithaca SKBs!Quote:
Originally Posted by longpointer
So to answer the OP ; I would go with 20 gauge whatever, pump, SxS, O/U, single barrel or semi-auto because the ammo is available , it has a wide range of use (ducks, deer, bunnies and grouse, etc.), a great gun for girlfriends or kids to start on or even Old Farts (God bless them) that still want to hunt.