Choosing the kind of firearm to search with is among the first and most important choices you will make as a hunter. The option over if or not a shotgun is better than a gun (and vice versa) was debated time and time again but why not include yet another opinion to the mix?
I will provide you my recommendation, compare the pros and cons of each firearm and hopefully assist you in making your choice.
For simplicity purposes, once I use the word SHOTGUN, I’ll encompass many version of this gun like the .410, 12 gauge and 20 gauge. On the flip side, when I reference RIFLES, I am referring to the fundamentals such as powerful air rifles, .22’s and .177’s.
Shotguns
PRO’S:
-less precision required to hit goal
-easier to hit moving targets
-better suited to aggressive hunters or predators who like to move around from place to place or stem search
-faster and easier shot image becoming due to bigger shot picture
-can be successful in heavy cover when leaves conceal the squirrels more
CON’S:
-likely to get shot pellets in the meat
-can destroy the meat and fur (in case there is interest in drying or tanning the hide)
-not scope friendly
-could be heavier to carry than the gun
-ammo cost is usually greater
-louder report – potentially scaring away nearby squirrels
-more recoil
RIFLES
PRO’S:
-quieter – might not spook nearby squirrels
-longer range for projectile
-less recoil
-more accurate shots
-preserves meat with accurate shooting (head/shoulder shots)
-can include a scope
-generally better for “sit and wait for” seekers
-generally lighter to carry than shotguns
-ammo is generally cheaper to buy
-easier to carry Lots of ammo due to the small size
-great clinic for other game shooting (deer, and so forth)
CON’S:
-larger bullet trajectory – can travel a mile+ or even more if not blocked (be cautious in areas if you do not know what’s around you)
-decreased accuracy if you have to shoot quickly or at a moving target (squirrels are notorious for being twitchy and energetic)
-have to “zero” and preserve extent (if used)
-more chalking to shoot and miss More Frequently
Next Read………..
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