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Dr. Strangelove · December 2, 2008, 07:52 PM

You need a Hawken, 50 caliber or better to be a mountain man.

I'm from Hendersonville, south of where you're going. I think your friend is referring to the fact that most of your shots will be at short range. There are places to shoot long range, but; by and large, your shots will be 100 yds or less (way less) and there's some pretty thick cover up there (laurel thickets). XM21 makes a good case for the .243, most WNC deer are about the size of greyhounds (well, they run smaller on average than here in GA anyway!), just watch the thick brush. A 30-30 makes a fine WNC deer rifle, the short overall length and big slow bullet makes for a good brush gun.

Answering your original question, 20ga would be fine, but if I was buying a shotgun, I'd be more apt to purchase a 12ga. You can always use lighter loads if you want and have the capability of the full power 12ga loads when you want/need them.

December 2, 2008, 07:52 PM	#7
Dr. Strangelove Senior Member Join Date: August 1, 2008 Location: Athens, GA Posts: 1,436	Jeremiah Johnson would say: You need a Hawken, 50 caliber or better to be a mountain man. I'm from Hendersonville, south of where you're going. I think your friend is referring to the fact that most of your shots will be at short range. There are places to shoot long range, but; by and large, your shots will be 100 yds or less (way less) and there's some pretty thick cover up there (laurel thickets). XM21 makes a good case for the .243, most WNC deer are about the size of greyhounds (well, they run smaller on average than here in GA anyway!), just watch the thick brush. A 30-30 makes a fine WNC deer rifle, the short overall length and big slow bullet makes for a good brush gun. Answering your original question, 20ga would be fine, but if I was buying a shotgun, I'd be more apt to purchase a 12ga. You can always use lighter loads if you want and have the capability of the full power 12ga loads when you want/need them.