Small Game in Thick Cover
When it comes to upland bird hunting, especially when you hunt grouse and woodcock, your choice of shotgun gauge matters just as much as your choice of boots or dog. Late season hunting presents unique challenges, requiring adjustments in choke and shot selection to adapt to changing environments. These birds are fast, unpredictable, and often flushed from dense cover, which means your shot window is tight and your reaction needs to be quick. The gauge you carry can influence your swing, your control, and the effectiveness of your pattern in those fleeting moments. Additionally, using different chokes can ensure effective and ethical hunting in various conditions by adjusting the shot spread based on geographic and environmental factors, especially at longer distances.
Why the 20 Gauge is a Favorite
The 20 gauge has long been a popular choice for grouse and woodcock, and for good reason. It offers a near-perfect balance of power and handling. Lighter than a 12 gauge, it allows for quicker mounting and smoother movement through the thick woods and tangled alder thickets where these birds often hold. The reduced weight and recoil also mean more comfort during long walks and repeated flushes, without sacrificing the pattern density needed for clean kills within typical upland ranges.
The Appeal of the 28 Gauge
For hunters who favor a nimble, lightweight setup and who take pride in precise shooting, the 28 gauge is often considered ideal for grouse and woodcock. The 28 gauge can be available at the same price as other gauges like the 12 and 20 gauge, making it a cost-effective option for hunters. It delivers enough pattern density with fine shot sizes like No. 7.5 or No. 8 to cleanly take down birds at close range. The small frame of most 28 gauge shotguns makes them perfect for fast handling, which is essential when you’ve only got a split second to react to a flushing bird in thick brush. While the 28 gauge has less reach and margin for error than the 20, in the hands of a skilled shooter it performs beautifully in the grouse woods. However, when it comes to tougher game like pheasants, the 28 gauge’s limitations in shot size and effectiveness become apparent, often necessitating larger loads and heavier gauges for optimal performance, which can also impact the money spent on ammunition.
What About the 12 Gauge?
Though the 12 gauge is the most versatile shotgun gauge overall, it’s often considered overkill for grouse and woodcock. The added weight and recoil can make it harder to handle quickly in tight cover, and the increased power can damage delicate birds. That said, some hunters still favor it, particularly if it’s what they’re used to or if they prefer the added confidence of a wider pattern. Choosing the right shell for the 12 gauge is crucial, as different shell gauges and shot sizes can significantly affect hunting effectiveness. When used with light upland loads and open chokes, a 12 gauge can still be effective—just heavier to carry through miles of cover. Additionally, the 12 gauge can be effectively hunted with, especially for those who appreciate its power and are accustomed to its handling. Selecting a load with more shot can increase the likelihood of hitting targets like grouse and woodcock, enhancing overall shooting performance and effectiveness.
Chokes and Loads
Because most shots at grouse and woodcock are taken within twenty-five yards, open chokes like improved cylinder or skeet are the best choices. These allow for a wider pattern and more forgiveness on fast, close-range shots. Using a skeet choke in the first barrel is particularly beneficial during early season hunting when shots are typically close-range due to uneducated birds and dense foliage. As for loads, smaller shot sizes like No. 7.5, No. 8, or even No. 9 are common, especially for woodcock. These shot sizes provide enough energy to ensure a clean kill without tearing up the meat or feathers.
Swing and Handling in the Woods
Beyond gauge, what matters most is how a gun carries and swings. Using a light weight gun can make long walks in rugged terrains easier and improve shooting experiences. Grouse and woodcock cover is thick, often uneven, and full of branches, briars, and brush. A lighter gun that shoulders quickly and swings without snagging is more useful than one with extra power. A heavy gun can hinder mobility and endurance during long hunts, making lighter options preferable for better shooting effectiveness. Many upland hunters value short-barreled, double-barrel or pump-action shotguns in 20 or 28 gauge because they balance well and don’t get caught up in the undergrowth. If your gun feels like an extension of your arm, you’re set up for success. Additionally, having a well-trained bird dog can significantly enhance your hunting experience by helping to locate and flush out birds.
The Value of Practice
No matter which gauge you choose, patterning your gun and practicing with it is essential. Clay target shooting can help you develop the instincts and confidence needed for quick shots in the woods. Practicing with clays is crucial as it prepares you for both clay target shooting and hunting scenarios. Know how your gun patterns with your chosen load and how it feels during a fast swing. Reloading your own ammunition can be beneficial for both practice and hunting, allowing you to tailor your loads to specific needs and preferences. That familiarity will make all the difference when a grouse explodes from cover or a woodcock darts low through the trees, and you need to quickly pull the trigger.
Conclusion
For most upland bird hunters chasing grouse and woodcock, the 20 gauge strikes the best balance between handling and effectiveness. Planning your hunt is crucial, considering factors like terrain, timing, and equipment choices to ensure success. The 28 gauge offers a lightweight, smooth-swinging option for tight cover and precise shooting, while the 12 gauge remains viable but is often more than what’s needed for these light, quick birds. Choose the gauge that fits your style, your cover, and your comfort level, and you’ll be better prepared when the flush comes sudden and fast in the thick woods. This approach will enhance your experience as a hunter.
FAQs
What is the best shotgun gauge for hunting grouse?
The 20 gauge is widely considered the best all-around choice for grouse hunting due to its balance of power, weight, and handling among various grouse guns.
Is a 28 gauge enough for woodcock?
Yes, the 28 gauge is more than capable for woodcock hunting when paired with proper shot sizes and chokes. It’s especially effective in thick cover.
Can I use a 12 gauge for upland birds?
You can, but it’s heavier and may be more than necessary for grouse woodcock. Light loads and open chokes help make it more suitable.
What shot size is best for grouse and woodcock?
Common shot sizes for ruffed grouse and woodcock include No. 7.5, No. 8, and No. 9. These offer good pattern density without excessive damage to the birds.
What choke should I use for grouse hunting?
Interchangeable chokes, such as improved cylinder or skeet chokes, are typically best. They allow for a wider spread, which is helpful for quick, close shots in dense woods.