12 vs 20 gauge pheasant. 410 vs 20 Gauge: Pheasant .

12 vs 20 gauge pheasant 90% of the time, this gun will be used for wild pheasants over flushing dogs. The 20-gauge is having a moment again, with hunters giddy on TSS and bismuth putting up their 12s in favor of the smaller bore. It offers a wide range of target load options for sporting clays, trap, and skeet, as well as heavy slugs for deer hunting, and various birdshot choices for turkey, waterfowl, and upland birds. I have a slew of other shotguns, all 12 gauges, except for a single shot 20 I started with. That said, there are some general tendencies concerning this 20- vs 12-gauge question that can be made. Can a 20- or even a 28-gauge shotgun outperform a 12? Our answer may surprise you. But it is heavy. It will see limited use for dove/grouse/quail. 410 vs 20 Gauge: Pheasant that a 20 gauge shell Jun 25, 2024 · In upland hunting, the question of 12 gauge vs 20 gauge comes down to personal preference. Sep 11, 2021 · When it comes to whether to buy a 12-gauge or a 20-gauge, the best answer is, "It depends. My main reason was my 12 gauge is probably 3-4 pounds heavier than my new 20, which over a long day of hiking makes it a dream to carry Aug 2, 2018 · 20 gauge if you will primarily be hunting upland birds. Dec 21, 2024 · For instance, a 16-gauge barrel measures . What type of choke is best for pheasant hunting with a 20 gauge? For pheasant hunting, a modified or improved cylinder choke is often recommended for use with a 20 gauge shotgun. Sep 17, 2007 · Not a bad load if you are a good shot. The most common gauges are 12 and 20, with 12 being the larger of the two. Feb 23, 2024 · A 20 gauge makes a great choice in an upland shotgun and while 12s do allow you to use heavier payloads, you are rarely under-gunned with a 20. 75″, and is a better choice for both waterfowl AND upland birds. Crafted with a select grade Turkish walnut stock and equipped with a 28-inch barrel, this over/under shotgun promises excellent handling and versatility for a Jun 13, 2024 · Welcome to Versus Week. Apr 21, 2016 · So it was for many years, a 12 gauge standardweight A-5 defining the pheasant and duck gun. three inch 20 gauge load of #5 shot puts many, many generic 12 gauge pheasant loads to shame on the patterning board. In most stores, you will find that 12-gauge ammunition is just as affordable as 20-gauge; if there’s a difference, it’s slight at best. BUT, a 20 gauge side by side can be much lighter than a 12, as are most 20 gauge shotguns. May 11, 2016 · Haven't used a 12 gauge for upland hunting for years and years. I haven’t shot a pheasant with a 12-gauge in two years, having switched, for the time being, to a 20-gauge O/U. 5's in energy and pellet count. 410 vs 20 Gauge: Pheasant, Quail, and Whitetail The difference between 20-gauge vs 410 is that the 20-gauge shotshell is larger and carries a heavier powder charge and payload compared to the 410. 12 gauge would have been even better. on pheasants, and also ducks, with very satisfying success. 615” for 20 gauge. It would be better for the longest shots. com. 28 Gauge. 20-gauge. Jul 5, 2023 · Should I use 20 Gauge or 12 Gauge? There’s no denying the versatility of the 12 gauge shotgun—it’s the “jack of all trades” in the shotgun world. . If you are trying to shoot them outside of 40 Nov 18, 2004 · The 20 will work for pheasants but I believe the 12 gauge is a better choice especially when we are talking longer ranges. Spread. Jul 18, 2018 · Price. Mar 4, 2018 · I’m sure this has been discussed numerous times but what has everyone had luck with for 20 gauge nontoxic loads for pheasant? Price no object #6 Hevi-shot original 12 gram one ounce of that stuff pure poison on ducks and pheasant in a 2 3/4inch load . I ve been a 16 gauge and 20 gauge fan for pheasants for many years, but we all understand how old Sep 6, 2022 · I mostly shoot 2 3/4” lead 5’s at 1220 fps out of IC 12 gauge100+ birds annually. Just because you can fit a 12 gauge payload into the 3" shell doesn't make a 20 gauge into a 12 gauge. A 12 gauge has a bore diameter of 0. Simple law of “equal and opposite reactions” gives the nod to the 20 for less kick. We use quality #6, 3 or 2-3/4 inch, at mod choke or IC Jan 16, 2019 · It’s obvious that the 12-gauge shotgun is the most popular choice, and many consider this the best all-around option for pheasant hunting. Oct 11, 2024 · 410 vs 20 Gauge by Ammo. This means that a 12 gauge can fire larger payloads of buckshot at higher muzzle velocity at the cost of higher felt recoil. " It depends on your preferences. Our The Resistance Library. It did the job then and they work just as well today. Aug 6, 2024 · When deciding between 12 gauge and 20 gauge shotguns, it's essential to understand each shotgun type. Price Winner: Draw. 5 shot size. 11. In my mind, having more pellets or a larger slug in the air is never a bad thing. Mar 26, 2024 · My book "The Pheasant Hunter's Action Adventure Cookbook" is now on Amazon. Why are 12 and 20 gauge shells preferred for pheasant Dec 21, 2010 · 12 Ga VS 20 Ga for upland hunting. May 14, 2024 · Generally, using modified or improved cylinder chokes provides a good balance for pheasant hunting. 12 gauge variants: 1 3/4″, 2″, 2. 729” compared to 0. Besides the gauge, the gun you use to chase down wiry pheasant roosters comes down to comfort, a May 8, 2020 · Mrs1911fan thinks I should get a Silver Pigeon to replace my beloved Citori Gran Lightning. 12 gauges – recoil. Friggin lethal. May 14, 2016 · 12 Gauge Specifications vs 20 Gauge. The GForce GF5 Filthy Pheasant is a shotgun designed with pheasant hunters in mind, offering an ideal combination of style, performance, and comfort. Can I use a different gauge shotgun for pheasant hunting? While the article focuses on 12-gauge shotguns, other gauges such as 16 or 20 can be used for pheasant hunting as well, as long as the appropriate ammunition is selected. I made the mistake of borrowing a friend's Silver Pigeon for a Oct 18, 2021 · Pros: The 20-gauge can accomplish most any task you’d ask of the 12, especially with the advent of TSS, and most shotgun manufacturers offer 20-gauge guns in their lines. You can find 12 and 20 shells for a comparable price. Reactions: Iowa Boy, Armtx77, Jjgundoges and 3 others. Feb 19, 2024 · What is the difference between 12 gauge and 20 gauge shotguns? The main difference is the size of the ammunition they use, with 12 gauge being larger and more powerful than 20 gauge. Would be a nice load to shoot out of a light 20 gauge at pheasants. A Caesar Guerini 20 gauge made short work of this pheasant limit. Can I use a 16 gauge shotgun for pheasant hunting? While 16 gauge shotguns can be used for pheasant hunting, they are less common and may have limited ammunition Oct 12, 2023 · I vote 12 gauge for a do-it-all. Aug 26, 2016 · I'm looking to get my first and long-awaited over/under shotgun. 12 gauge if you will primarily be hunting waterfowl. Facebook. You can hunt waterfowl with a 20 and you can hunt upland with a 12. Here we arrive at what many consider the deciding factor in choosing between 20 vs. Ammunition is readily available and less expensive than for other gauges. 12 Gauge vs 20 Gauge: Waterfowl Hunting | With the right load, a 20 gauge can be a competent waterfowl gun. Size your shot size and shell length to match your target species. Best load EVER was hevi-shot 20 gauge 2 3/4” #6 shotfriggin lethalonly had about 70 rounds of it. These key differences affect their performance and usability. More. The only real differences between the two gauges in my mind are shell capacity (12 gauge will hold more) and shootability/comfort (20 gauge will most often win here). Gauge measurements refer to the diameter of the shotgun’s bore, or the inside of the barrel. 729 inches, taking 12 balls equal to that bore to form one pound. Dec 7, 2023 · What is the difference between a 12 vs 20 gauge? If you’re in the market for a shotgun, you’ll need to decide which gauge is right for you. By Ron Spomer. Click to expand You loose Mar 26, 2024 · A 12 gauge is usually more “efficient” than a 20 gauge; it usually takes a degree or two of choke tighter in the 20 gauge to reach similar 12-gauge pattern density; and when you get beyond ~40 yards, the 12 gauge will almost Jul 8, 2009 · It really depends on how you hunt, what kind of shots you are having to take, and if you can exercise some restaint on the long shots. The difference between 12 and 20-gauge shotguns is their bore diameter. Upland Bird Hunting: The 20-gauge shotgun is ideal for upland bird hunting. Aug 19, 2021 · Gobbler: Others have said this and I will reiterate that a very workable answer to your "12 vs. Email. The small number equal’s larger bore shotgun sizing often confuses beginners. Winchester Super Target, 20 Gauge Round, 2-3/4 Inch, 1200 Velocity, Dec 1, 2024 · GForce GF5 Filthy Pheasant 20 Gauge Shotgun Review. Nov 28, 2024 · When choosing between a 12 gauge and 20 gauge shotgun, consider the trade-offs in recoil, muzzle energy, and ammunition options to find the perfect fit for your hunting needs. Best non-tox I’ve used lately is hevi-metal 3” #3 shot, don’t recall velocity. That includes me to a certain small extent. 20" question is a 16 gauge gun--particularly for pheasants. Dec 11, 2019 · Shotgun Showdown: 12 Gauge vs. 20 Gauge vs 410: Understanding Shotgun Gauges If you’re familiar with shotguns, you’ll know that a lower gauge means a bigger caliber. Posted on Dec 11, 2019. , and in the last two years, a Browning (new) A5, also weighing just shy of 6 lbs. You won't have to learn to shoot better with the 20 gauge - you WILL shoot it better than the 12 simply because it's lighter and easier to get on target quicker, and the shells are lighter to carry. Can a 20 gauge take down a pheasant at longer distances? While a 20 gauge can be effective at longer ranges, it’s generally best to take shots within 40 yards for ethical and Dec 10, 2024 · The difference between 20-gauge vs 410 is that the 20-gauge shotshell is larger and carries a heavier powder charge and payload compared to the 410. a Browning Gold in 12 gauge and have used it for waterfowl, including big geese, and upland but my first choice is my 20 gauge O/U for upland. For Pheasants, chukars and huns the Fiocci Golden Pheasant 3" 1 1/4 oz nickel plated 6's are hard to beat. 662 inches, and it would take 16 balls. Mar 4, 2018. Feb 19, 2024 · What is the effective range of a 12 or 20 gauge shotgun for pheasant hunting? Both 12 and 20 gauge shotguns can effectively take down pheasants at ranges of up to 40 yards or more with the right choke and shot size. In upland hunting, the question of 12 gauge vs 20 gauge comes down to Jan 24, 2024 · Managing Shotgun Recoil. My Dad is turning 80 years young next year and you can believe he still enjoys pheasant hunting. A 12’s barrel has a diameter of . 6's, also available in 2 3/4 inch 20 gauge, gives you roughly the equivalent of the standard 12 gauge lead load of 1 1/4 ounce no. Wanted to see if Nov 19, 2020 · Hard to beat a 12 gauge, ammo available almost everywhere, load up or down, and choose a choke that patterns well for what your shooting. I've carried that gun since about 1992 and it's killed a lot of birds. The main difference is that a 20 gauge is so much more comfortable to tote when chasing pheasant and quail. The one ounce load of hevishot no. Each gauge has unique advantages and limitations. 20 Gauge vs. for pheasants over dogs or otherwise holding tight, like around 30 yards max. Feb 20, 2024 · What type of ammunition is best for pheasant hunting with a 20 gauge? For pheasant hunting with a 20 gauge, it’s recommended to use 2 3/4-inch rounds with 6 or 7. Any physics major will tell you that a narrower 20 gauge shell launches a lighter projectile compared to a beefier 12 gauge. If you are recoil sensitive and only plan to hunt upland birds then the 20-gauge shotgun will be everything you need it to be. Fits me well. Hun, sharptail, pheasant mixed bag with a 20 gauge. 3 days ago · Have you used a 20 gauge with quality 3 inch loads for a season or 2 and noticed a difference in killing range verse a 12 or 16 with 2 3/4 loads? There is scenarios where more Jan 16, 2013 · Is the 12 overall better & preferred than the 20 when it comes to pheasant hunting? Or is the 20 ga ALL one ever needs? The 20 ga loads chosen are for turkeys. Are there specific shot size recommendations for pheasant hunting with a 12 or 20 gauge shotgun? Aug 26, 2016 · I bought my first over-under several years ago and went with the 20 gauge. " For example, the Federal 1-5/16 oz. Typically coming in a 1/2 pound lighter, Apr 29, 2009 · What you are running into is the fallacy of the 3" 20 gauge. Oct 11, 2024 · There’s no doubt that the 12-gauge shotgun is the most popular shotgun caliber in the United States. Gauge Comparison When it comes to shotguns, one of the most fundamental decisions you’ll make is choosing the right gauge. The Feb 19, 2024 · While it’s possible to use a 16 gauge for pheasant hunting, 12 and 20 gauge shells are more commonly recommended. No firearm has seen more action against grouse, pheasant, and quail than a double-barrel 20 May 18, 2018 · Some of today's 20 gauge loads produce unbelievable patterns compared to the old notion of "20 gauge. A #6 pellet DOES carry the same energy from Apr 29, 2009 · We (yeah, a couple of us) favor a 20 ga. 5″, 2. I'm betting that those 3" shell beat the h#ll out of you too! As the bore size gets smaller, the center pattern density gets less and the effective range of the pattern gets shorter. Depending upon the model, 20-gauge guns often weigh about a pound less than a 12, and if you think a pound doesn’t matter, you’ve never hunted chukar and Huns in steep country. Notes. You would think that because 20-gauge ammunition has less material, it would be cheaper, but this is not necessarily the case. 410 vs 20 Gauge: Pheasant, Quail, and Whitetail - Beware! Copy link. A5 Sweet 16 Well-known member. Tall tales, hunting tips, butchering from bird to the freezer, and recipes. Nov 6, 2024 · What’s the Difference Between 12 Gauge vs 20 Gauge? The difference between 12 and 20-gauge shotguns is their bore diameter. Feb 20, 2024 · Yes, 20 gauge shotguns can be used for trap and skeet shooting, offering a different challenge compared to 12 gauge shotguns. I have used both a Merkel 1620 side by side weighing about 6 lbs. frqt bjmzdf mfqzwv jgvq bxbuk xig dytxj vdh esgy qpugg