What Can You Hunt with a 20 Gauge Shotgun? A Comprehensive Guide
The 20 gauge shotgun, lighter and more manageable than its 12 gauge counterpart, is a popular choice for many hunters. Its versatility makes it suitable for a surprising range of game, but understanding its limitations is crucial for ethical and successful hunting. This guide explores the various game animals you can ethically and effectively hunt with a 20 gauge, considering factors like shot size, range, and the animal's size and temperament.
Smaller Game: Perfect for the 20 Gauge
The 20 gauge truly shines when hunting smaller game. Its lighter recoil makes for quicker follow-up shots, a significant advantage when dealing with fast, elusive targets.
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Upland Birds: Pheasants, quail, grouse, and chukar are all excellent targets for a 20 gauge. Using appropriate shot sizes (typically #6 or #7.5) at reasonable ranges, you'll find it delivers consistent and effective patterns.
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Waterfowl: While a 12 gauge might be preferred by some for larger waterfowl like Canada geese, a 20 gauge is perfectly adequate for hunting ducks and smaller geese, particularly with steel shot and appropriate choke tubes. #2 or #4 shot is generally recommended.
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Rabbits and Squirrels: These smaller mammals are easily taken with a 20 gauge using appropriate shot sizes like #6 or #4. Remember to focus on ethical shot placement for a quick and humane harvest.
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Doves and Pigeons: These fast-flying birds present a challenge, but a 20 gauge, with the right shot and choke, can effectively bring them down. #7.5 or #8 shot is usually the best choice.
Medium-Sized Game: A Matter of Shot Placement and Range
While not ideal for the largest game animals, a 20 gauge can be successfully used for some medium-sized game, provided you understand its limitations and prioritize ethical hunting practices. Success hinges on precise shot placement and appropriate ammunition.
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Deer: Hunting deer with a 20 gauge is possible, but requires careful consideration. You'll need slugs designed for deer hunting, and the effective range is significantly shorter than that of a larger gauge. This approach is generally not recommended for experienced hunters unless at very close ranges.
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Turkey: A 20 gauge can be used for turkey hunting, especially with specialized turkey loads. However, a 12 gauge is generally preferred by many hunters due to its greater stopping power. Accuracy and shot placement are paramount for ethical and successful hunting.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your 20 Gauge Loads
The choice of ammunition is critical for successful and ethical hunting with a 20 gauge.
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Shot Size: Smaller shot sizes (like #6, #7.5, and #8) are better for smaller, faster game. Larger shot sizes (like #4 and #2) are needed for larger game or longer ranges.
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Choke: The choke of your shotgun barrel significantly impacts shot pattern. Modified or improved cylinder chokes are generally good choices for upland birds, while tighter chokes might be needed for waterfowl.
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Ammunition Type: Steel shot is essential for waterfowl hunting in many regions due to environmental concerns. Slugs are necessary for larger game like deer, but remember the limitations of a 20 gauge in this context.
Conclusion: A Versatile but Not Universal Hunting Tool
The 20 gauge shotgun is a versatile tool for many hunters, particularly those who prefer a lighter, more manageable firearm. It's exceptionally well-suited for smaller game, and with careful shot placement and appropriate ammunition selection, can be used for some medium-sized game as well. However, it's crucial to understand its limitations and prioritize ethical hunting practices to ensure a successful and responsible hunt. Always refer to your local hunting regulations and guidelines.
