What To Use For Pheasants?

[Crocker Boy]

Maryville. Thanks to all who have educated me in this new adventure. Hopefully have some great pics to share in mid November. Going to go bow hunting, but figure if the deer slow down I will try to bust some birds.

[RSBreth]

I think it was in Steve Groom's book "Modern Pheasant Hunting" where he sums it up pretty well -

Close Shots (like behind pointing dogs or in thicker cover) Open chokes and 7 1/2 shot is fine.

Most shots - #6

Long shots #5

I've used #6 the most, and mostly out of a 20 gauge. I have used the Hevi-Shot 3" 20-gauge load with #6 shot in areas where non-toxic shot was required, and that load knocks the snot out of Pheasants.

In 12 gauge I'd be happy with any good 2 3/4" ounce and a quarter #6's all day long.