Best Shotgun for Upland Bird Hunting: Your Perfect Fit

Choosing the best shotgun for upland bird hunting is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your experience in the field. With so many options available, finding the perfect fit requires understanding your hunting needs, preferences, and the unique challenges posed by upland bird species. From selecting the right gauge to considering weight, balance, and reliability, the right shotgun can elevate your hunting performance and enjoyment.

Considering the Importance of Gauge

Understand Gauge Options

The gauge of a shotgun refers to the bore diameter, and it directly impacts the power, range, and weight of the firearm. The most popular gauges for upland bird hunting are 12-gauge, 20-gauge, and 28-gauge, each offering distinct advantages:

• 12-gauge: Known for its versatility and power, making it a favorite for pheasant hunting and larger upland birds like pheasants.

• 20-gauge: A lighter and more manageable option, ideal for smaller birds like quail or for hunters who prefer reduced recoil.

• 28-gauge: Perfect for experienced hunters seeking a lightweight firearm with a challenging yet rewarding shooting experience.

Unlike waterfowl hunting, which typically involves hunting over lakes and wetlands, upland bird hunting occurs in dry land environments.

Match Gauge to Game

Choose a gauge based on the species you plan to hunt. Larger birds may require the power and range of a 12-gauge, while smaller upland game birds can be effectively hunted with a 20-gauge or even a 28-gauge.

Shotgun Actions: Break-Action, Pump, or Semi-Auto

Break-Action Shotguns

Break-action shotguns, including single-shot and double-barrel designs, are simple and reliable. Double-barrel shotguns come in over-under and side-by-side configurations, offering two shots with minimal mechanical complexity. These are favored for their classic design, ease of maintenance, and quick barrel selection.

Pump-Action Shotguns

Pump-action shotguns are durable and versatile, making them a practical choice for upland hunting. They are manually operated by sliding the forend, allowing for multiple shots without the weight or cost of semi-automatic mechanisms. The Remington 870 is often cited as a preferred shotgun among hunters for its reliability and versatility.

Semi-Automatic Shotguns

Semi-automatic shotguns provide the advantage of faster follow-up shots with reduced recoil. These shotguns cycle automatically after each shot, making them a popular choice for hunters who anticipate multiple opportunities in quick succession.

Choosing the Right Action

The choice between break-action, pump-action, and semi-automatic shotguns often comes down to personal preference. Consider your hunting style, the terrain, and the likelihood of needing multiple shots when deciding.

Balance and Weight

Light vs. Heavy Shotguns

Most upland hunters understand that weight plays a significant role in comfort and performance during upland hunting. While a seven pound shotgun may seem manageable at first, it can become burdensome during a long day of walking. Lighter shotguns are easier to carry over long distances and through dense cover but may produce more felt recoil. Heavier shotguns often provide better balance and reduced recoil but can be cumbersome on extended hunts.

Test the Balance

A well-balanced shotgun feels natural in your hands and allows for quick target acquisition. When testing shotguns, hold them in your shooting position to ensure they are comfortable and well-suited to your shooting style.

Barrel Length and Choke

Barrel Length

Barrel length impacts the handling and swing of the shotgun. Shorter barrels are more maneuverable, making them ideal for hunting in thick cover or brush. Longer barrels provide better stability and a smoother swing, which is beneficial for open-field hunting.

Choke Options

The choke of a shotgun determines how tightly the pellets spread after leaving the barrel. Popular choices for upland bird hunting include:

• Improved Cylinder: Provides a wider spread for close-range shots.

• Modified: Offers a balance of range and pattern density, suitable for most upland hunting scenarios.

• Full: Creates a tighter pattern for longer-range shots, ideal for larger birds or wide-open fields.

Having interchangeable chokes allows you to adapt to different hunting conditions and game species.

Fit and Comfort

Customizing Your Shotgun

The fit of a shotgun is one of the most important factors for accuracy and comfort. Consider the length of pull, drop at comb, and drop at heel to ensure the shotgun aligns naturally with your shoulder and eye. Some manufacturers offer adjustable stocks or custom fitting services for a tailored experience. Additionally, the type of grip can significantly enhance comfort and control. Different styles of grips, such as rounded, straight or smaller grips, can impact handling and performance, particularly for hunters of varying hand sizes.

Test Before You Buy

Whenever possible, test a shotgun before purchasing. Handling and shooting a potential choice will give you a better understanding of how it performs and feels in real-world conditions.

Practical Features to Look For

Weather Resistance

Hunting often exposes your shotgun to harsh conditions, including rain, snow, and mud. Look for models with weather-resistant finishes or synthetic stocks that can withstand the elements.

Easy Maintenance

Shotguns used for upland hunting should be easy to clean and maintain. Simpler designs, such as break-action shotguns, are particularly user-friendly when it comes to cleaning and upkeep.

Reliable Operation

Upland bird hunters know that reliability is critical when hunting upland birds. Choose a shotgun known for consistent performance and dependability in the field.

Choosing Ammunition for Your Shotgun

Shot Size

The size of the pellets in your ammunition affects the range and lethality of your shots. For bird hunters targeting upland birds, common shot sizes range from six to eight, with smaller sizes suited for quail and larger sizes better for pheasants.

Shell Length

Ensure that the ammunition you select matches the chamber length of your shotgun. Using improperly sized shells can lead to malfunctions or safety hazards.

Non-Toxic Options

In some areas, regulations require the use of non-toxic shot, such as steel or other alternatives. Check local hunting laws to ensure compliance when selecting your ammunition.

Conclusion

The best shotgun for upland hunters is one that matches your needs, preferences, and hunting environment. Consider factors like gauge, action type, weight, balance, and fit when making your decision. A well-chosen shotgun enhances not only your performance but also your overall enjoyment in the field. By testing different models, paying attention to practical features, and selecting appropriate ammunition, you can find a shotgun that becomes a trusted companion on your upland hunting adventures.

FAQs

What gauge is best for upland bird hunting?

Selecting the right upland shotgun is crucial for bird hunting, and a 12-gauge is versatile and powerful, making it ideal for larger birds like pheasants. A 20-gauge offers a lighter option with less recoil, while a 28-gauge is suitable for smaller birds or experienced hunters seeking a lightweight firearm.

Is a semi-automatic shotgun better than a pump-action for upland hunting?

Both have advantages. Semi-automatics provide faster follow-up shots and reduced recoil, while pump-action shotguns are more affordable and highly reliable.

What barrel length is ideal for upland hunting?

Barrel lengths between 26 and 28 inches strike a good balance, offering maneuverability in dense cover while maintaining stability for open-field shots.

Do I need interchangeable chokes for upland hunting?

Interchangeable chokes are highly beneficial as they allow you to adapt to different hunting conditions. Improved cylinder and modified chokes are commonly used for upland birds.

How can I ensure a shotgun fits me properly?

Pay attention to the length of pull, drop at comb, and drop at heel. Test the shotgun by shouldering it to see if it aligns naturally with your eye and feels comfortable to hold and swing.