Pattern Density vs Pellet Energy: What Matters Most

Small Game, Big Tradition

Squirrel hunting is one of the best ways to introduce new hunters to the woods. It’s low-pressure, teaches woodsmanship, and puts excellent table fare on the plate. Just as hunters use specific strategies for small ducks, selecting the right shot size for squirrels is crucial for success. A shot cup can improve shotgun performance by cushioning the transition of pellets as they exit the barrel, resulting in a tighter shot pattern. But success often depends on having the right shot size for the job. In the timber, where shots range from point-blank to treetop distance, choosing a shot that balances spread and penetration is key.

Go-To Shot Sizes

The most common shot sizes for squirrel hunting are No. 5 and No. 6. Comparing two pellets of equal weight but different materials, such as lead and steel, can show significant differences in penetration and energy retention. These provide enough weight and density to knock down a squirrel cleanly, even when it’s high up in a hardwood or clinging to a thick branch. An improved cylinder choke is effective for close-range shots, providing a wider shot pattern that is ideal for early-season hunts. No. 6 is the more versatile option, offering a good pattern with enough pellets to increase hit probability without causing excessive meat damage. For early-season hunts when foliage is thick and squirrels are closer, No. 6 gives you just the right balance. Later in the season when shots may stretch a bit, No. 5 provides more punch and reach.

Smaller Shot: Yes or No?

Some hunters use No. 7.5 for squirrel hunting, especially in tighter quarters or when hunting younger squirrels. The effectiveness of smaller shot sizes can be seen in the number of pellet strikes on the target, which is crucial for ensuring a clean kill. Using smaller shot sizes can result in more pellets, increasing the chances of hitting more birds effectively. While it offers a wider pattern and more pellets in the air, it lacks the downrange energy of larger shot sizes. This can lead to wounded animals or longer chases through the trees. If you’re close and confident, it can work. Otherwise, stepping up to No. 6 ensures a more humane and effective result.

Load and Gauge Considerations

Most squirrel hunters carry either a 20 gauge or 12 gauge. While lead shot has been a traditional choice, modern alternatives like steel and tungsten offer different performance characteristics. The 20 gauge offers a lighter platform and manageable recoil, while still pushing enough pellets to make clean kills with the right load. The 12 gauge throws a denser pattern and gives more range flexibility, especially with heavier loads. High velocity loads can enhance downrange energy and improve performance when shooting squirrels. A standard 1 ounce or 1 1/8 ounce field load in No. 6 shot is a solid choice in either gauge. For those using a .410, No. 6 is typically the upper limit for payload and effectiveness, though accuracy becomes even more critical.

Choke Selection

Choke plays a big role in pattern performance. The forcing cone, the tapered section of the barrel, plays a crucial role in shot charge acceleration and pattern consistency. For early season hunts with thick leaf cover and close shots, improved cylinder or skeet chokes allow a wider pattern. A full choke provides maximum constriction, shaping the spread of shot for longer-range effectiveness. As the leaves fall and shot distances increase, switching to a modified choke can help tighten the spread and maintain lethality at longer range. Patterning your shotgun with your chosen load helps you understand its behavior and make confident shots in the woods.

Pattern Density vs Pellet Energy

When choosing a load for squirrel hunting, it’s easy to get caught up in the numbers—but knowing what matters most in the field can clarify the decision. Just as waterfowl hunters balance shot size for effective patterns and energy, squirrel hunters must consider these factors for optimal performance. Pattern density ensures more opportunities to connect with a moving or partially obscured squirrel, especially in heavy timber. Selecting the right shot size is crucial for ensuring a clean kill by penetrating deep enough to reach vital organs. Pellet energy, on the other hand, determines how effective that hit will be. While both factors are important, pattern density typically carries more weight for small game like squirrels. A hit with multiple smaller pellets often proves more effective than a glancing blow from a single heavier pellet. That’s why No. 6 shot, with its balanced pattern and sufficient energy, is a favorite—it delivers a reliable spread without compromising terminal performance.

Timber Strategy

In timber, shots come fast and angles are tricky. To shoot effectively in timber, selecting the right ammunition and understanding shot patterns is crucial. Understanding shot patterns and shot sizes is crucial for effective shooting in timber. Squirrels rarely sit still for long, and they move from tree to tree with quick, bounding hops. A good shot size will help you take advantage of split-second opportunities. Always aim for clean, high-percentage shots and avoid firing when the animal is silhouetted against the sky. Safety and ethical harvesting go hand in hand.

Conclusion

The best shot sizes for squirrel hunting in timber are No. 5 and No. 6, offering the right mix of pattern density, energy, and versatility across different conditions. Accurately hitting the target with the right shot size ensures a clean and ethical kill. Shot size selection is important for balancing pattern density and pellet energy for effective hunting. Whether you’re using a 12 gauge or a 20, pairing the right shot size with the right choke ensures effective, ethical hunts in the hardwoods. Take the time to pattern your gun, know your range, and enjoy one of small game hunting’s most rewarding pursuits.

FAQs

What is the best shot size for squirrel hunting?

No. 6 shot is the most common and effective choice. While turkey chokes offer maximum constriction for dense patterns, an improved cylinder choke is often more suitable for squirrel hunting. The number of pellets is crucial for increasing hit probability and ensuring effective hunting. It provides a dense pattern and enough energy for clean kills in timber.

Can I use No. 5 shot for squirrels?

Yes, No. 5 shot is a great option for longer shots or late-season hunting. The difference in shot size can make a big difference in energy and effectiveness, especially at longer distances. It hits harder and carries more energy. No. 5 shot is effective at distances up to 40 yards, providing more energy for longer shots.

Is No. 7.5 shot good for squirrel hunting?

It can work at close range but lacks the punch for longer shots. When using smaller shot sizes, forward allowance becomes crucial to ensure the pellets hit the target effectively. Achieving a certain number of hits within a 30-inch circle is important for effective shot patterns. It’s best used in very tight cover or early season.

What gauge is best for squirrel hunting?

Both 12 and 20 gauge shotguns work well. Using bigger pellets in a 12 gauge can provide more energy and a denser pattern, making it effective for longer shots. Barrel length can impact shot patterns, with optimal lengths of 28” to 30” suggested for best results. The 20 gauge offers lighter recoil and weight, while the 12 gauge gives a denser pattern.

What choke should I use when hunting squirrels?

Use improved cylinder or skeet chokes for early season and close shots. Steel loads have improved over the years, offering better performance and pattern density for hunting. Tighter chokes help create denser shot patterns, improving accuracy and effectiveness at longer ranges. As range increases, switch to a modified choke for better pattern control.