The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - what shot size for 20 gauge for pheasant?

Boris49 · November 12, 2001, 09:40 PM

I've shot alot of skeet with a .410 but, unless you stand in front of the trap house, it's dang near impossible to shoot trap with a .410. Only 1/2 oz vs 1 oz for a 12 guage.

2 3/4" shells are fine for any bird hunting if you have lead shot. I don't like steel whatsoever. My dog died before the ban on lead so I haven't felt the need to test these shells.

I used to reload a bit too. Got tired of having my shoulder banged a couple hundred times a weekend by commercial loads. I used PB powder (I think) which reduced the recoil due to its slower burning coefficient or some such factor. Try to hook up with the guys at the range. You might be able to get some softer feeling reloads.

November 12, 2001, 09:40 PM	#16
Boris49 Member Join Date: November 4, 2001 Location: Indialantic, Florida Posts: 34	I've shot alot of skeet with a .410 but, unless you stand in front of the trap house, it's dang near impossible to shoot trap with a .410. Only 1/2 oz vs 1 oz for a 12 guage. 2 3/4" shells are fine for any bird hunting if you have lead shot. I don't like steel whatsoever. My dog died before the ban on lead so I haven't felt the need to test these shells. I used to reload a bit too. Got tired of having my shoulder banged a couple hundred times a weekend by commercial loads. I used PB powder (I think) which reduced the recoil due to its slower burning coefficient or some such factor. Try to hook up with the guys at the range. You might be able to get some softer feeling reloads.