Understanding 20 Gauge Shells for Squirrel Hunting
Shell Types
Before we get into specific recommendations, understanding the basics of 20-gauge shells is essential. Several factors influence a shell’s effectiveness for squirrel hunting. The right choice can significantly impact your success, not to mention the ethical considerations of a clean and humane kill.
One of the first things to consider is the type of shell. Shells come in different configurations, each with unique characteristics tailored for specific purposes.
Shot Size
Perhaps the most critical factor when choosing shells for squirrel hunting is the shot size. This refers to the diameter of the individual pellets inside the shell. Smaller shot sizes (higher numbers) are generally preferred for squirrels. Common sizes include #5, #6, and #7.5.
#5 shot: Offers a good balance between pellet count and energy, making it a versatile choice for squirrels at various ranges.
#6 shot: A popular option, providing a denser pattern and potentially more consistent hits on squirrels, especially at closer ranges.
#7.5 shot: Often considered ideal for targets but can also work for squirrels at close ranges, providing a higher pellet count for increased chances of a hit.
The choice of shot size often depends on personal preference, the specific hunting environment, and the expected range. Experimentation is often necessary to find the size that performs best in your particular situation.
Shell Length
20-gauge shells typically come in a few common lengths, with the most prevalent being the 2.5-inch and 3-inch shells. The 3-inch shell generally holds more shot, which can lead to denser patterns, but it also tends to have slightly more recoil. The choice depends on the shooter’s preference and the type of firearm.
Pellet Material
While most shotgun shells use lead pellets, there are also non-toxic alternatives available. Lead is the standard, offering excellent performance. However, some areas may restrict the use of lead shot, particularly in wetlands where it can pose an environmental hazard. Non-toxic alternatives, such as steel or bismuth shot, can be used. Steel shot is generally less expensive but often requires a larger shot size to achieve similar performance. Bismuth shot is a more expensive alternative that closely mimics the performance of lead.
Shot Pattern
This refers to the spread of the pellets after they leave the barrel of the shotgun. A tight, dense pattern delivers more pellets to the target, increasing the chances of a clean kill. A more open pattern can be advantageous at closer ranges, where a tight pattern might lead to a complete miss. The shotgun’s choke (discussed later) significantly influences the shot pattern.
Range
The effective range of a 20-gauge for squirrel hunting depends on the shell, choke, and the shooter’s skills. Generally, most hunters consider 25-40 yards to be an ideal range for 20-gauge shots. Trying to extend beyond this range increases the likelihood of wounding the squirrel and potentially losing it.
Ethical Considerations
Ethical hunting demands ensuring a clean and humane kill. Choosing the right shell and shot size, along with practicing accurate shot placement, is critical. Wounding an animal is never the goal, so hunters should only take shots they are confident in making.
Choke
The choke is a constriction at the end of the shotgun barrel that influences the shot pattern. Different chokes produce varying degrees of constriction.
Full choke: Creates the tightest patterns, ideal for longer ranges.
Modified choke: Offers a balance between pattern density and range.
Improved cylinder choke: Provides more open patterns, suitable for closer ranges.
Cylinder choke: Creates the most open pattern.
The appropriate choke selection depends on the hunting environment and the expected range. A hunter should test their shotgun with different chokes and shells to determine which combination produces the best patterns at various distances.
Top 20 Gauge Shell Recommendations for Squirrel Hunting
Now, let’s delve into some of the best 20-gauge shells for squirrel hunting. Remember, the “best” shell is often a matter of personal preference and depends on individual needs. However, these options have proven themselves consistently in the field:
Shell Recommendation One
Product Name: Consider something like Federal Premium Gold Medal Grand.
Shot Size and Load: Typically offered in #6 shot with a 7/8 oz or 1 oz load.
Why it’s a Good Choice: Known for its consistent patterns and excellent downrange performance. Federal Premium shells are a benchmark of quality. They offer reliable ignition and provide consistent shot patterns. The Gold Medal Grand line is often a favorite among serious hunters.
Pros: Excellent pattern density, reliable performance, trusted brand name.
Cons: May be slightly more expensive than other options.
Price Range: Expect to pay in the mid-range, depending on the retailer and quantity.
Shell Recommendation Two
Product Name: Consider a Remington Premier STS Target Load.
Shot Size and Load: Available in #6 or #7.5 shot, typically with 7/8 oz loads.
Why it’s a Good Choice: Remington shells are a classic choice for hunters. These shells often offer smooth operation and provide consistent results, making them a dependable choice. The STS line, known for its reliable performance, is a great option for squirrel hunting.
Pros: Reliable, consistent patterns, widely available.
Cons: Not always as densely packed as some other premium brands.
Price Range: A good value choice.
Shell Recommendation Three
Product Name: Consider a Winchester Super-X.
Shot Size and Load: Can be found with #5, #6, or #7.5 shot, usually loaded with 7/8 oz or 1 oz.
Why it’s a Good Choice: Winchester Super-X is another well-known and trusted name in ammunition. This brand offers good performance and consistency and a wide range of shot sizes for versatility.
Pros: Widely available, a solid all-around performer.
Cons: May not have the absolute tightest patterns compared to some premium loads.
Price Range: Typically affordable.
These are just a few suggestions, and there are other excellent 20-gauge shells on the market. Explore different brands and loads, and test them at the range to see which ones perform best with your shotgun.
Hunting Tips for Squirrels
Beyond choosing the right shells, successful squirrel hunting involves several key skills and techniques.
Gear Recommendations
Appropriate clothing is vital for a comfortable and safe hunting experience. Wear camouflage or earth-toned clothing to blend into your surroundings. Consider layering your clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions.
Scope/Sights: While some hunters prefer open sights, a scope or a red dot sight can significantly improve accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
Squirrel Calls: Using squirrel calls can lure squirrels out of hiding and increase your chances of a shot.
Hunting Techniques
Scouting is a crucial step. Before the season, spend time in the woods identifying areas with high squirrel activity. Look for signs such as cut nuts, nests, and droppings.
Stalking and Still Hunting are common approaches. Stalking involves moving slowly and quietly through the woods, while still hunting means remaining in a concealed position and waiting for squirrels to appear.
Shot Placement is critical for ethical kills. Aim for the head or the vital organs to ensure a quick and humane harvest.
Safety Precautions: Always practice safe firearm handling. Be aware of your surroundings, identify your target, and never point your gun at something you are not willing to shoot.
Safety and Ethical Considerations
Squirrel hunting, like any outdoor activity involving firearms, requires a strong commitment to safety and ethical practices.
Firearm Safety
Always follow the four primary rules of firearm safety:
Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy.
Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target and you have decided to fire.
Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
Legal Requirements
Familiarize yourself with local hunting regulations, including licensing requirements, bag limits, and legal shooting hours. Always adhere to these regulations to ensure a legal and ethical hunting experience.
Ethical Hunting
Ethical hunters respect the animal and the environment. They strive for clean kills, avoid wounding animals, and practice responsible conservation. This includes retrieving downed game, minimizing waste, and leaving the hunting area cleaner than they found it.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 20-gauge shells is a crucial element of successful and ethical squirrel hunting. Shells like the Federal Premium Gold Medal Grand, Remington Premier STS, and Winchester Super-X offer excellent performance. However, the “best” shell will ultimately depend on your preferences, hunting environment, and shotgun. By understanding the factors that affect shell performance, following safe hunting practices, and respecting the ethical considerations of the hunt, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy the rewarding experience of squirrel hunting.
The journey of finding the perfect 20 gauge shells is one of discovery. Hunters should always research, experiment with various shot sizes and shell brands, and always test them in different chokes for their shotguns.
