Rabbit questions

thenewshooter · 12-09-2007, 08:47 PM

I go rabbit hunting alot with a 16 gauge. Is that too big? I was think a 410 would be perfect. I would be considered gun illiterate.What are your opinions for a good Rabbit or Squirrel shotgun? I did find that a pump comes in very handy for the fast critters!

hurley0816 · 12-09-2007, 08:52 PM

I use a 20g remington 870 for rabbit and squirrel. I use 2 3/4in6 shot.

thenewshooter · 12-09-2007, 09:06 PM

Just curious if you used the Remi for deer hunting also?

WYObowfisher · 12-09-2007, 09:34 PM

I wouldnt use anything bigger then a 20 gauge for rabbit hunting (IMO).

NMFowler · 12-09-2007, 10:31 PM

I have frequently shot both cotton tail, and jack rabbit with my 870 12ga. I shoot a high brass 4 or 6 shot for the jacks, and low brass 6 or 7 shot on the cotton tail. I don't like to pick shot out of my kill, so I prefer my single shot 22lr. It also adds a little more sport to the hunt.

NMFowler · 12-09-2007, 10:37 PM

I forgot to add that I have taken deer with my 870 shooting 00 buck shot. Back in Alabama it was common place to hunt deer with dogs or use people to drive them, so when you add a running deer with the thick Alabama undergrowth 00 buck was the only way you could make a clean harvest.

bigbucks98 · 12-10-2007, 04:45 PM

For rabbits and squirrels a 16 isnt too bad, I will admit its not my first choice but it will work. The 410 is an awesome gun for rabbits and squirrels!!!!!!!!! In fact thats what I use most of the time for them. IF not the 410, then get either a 12 or 20. Oh and be sure to only shoot 7 1/2 or 6 shot out of your shotguns for the little critters. 7 1/22 is better for rabbits, and 6 is a little better for squirrels. If not these choices go back to using the old 16. Actually tell you something.... the 28 guage is an awesome choice for the rabbits and squirrels too. I got one and am very impressed with it.

4 Buck · 12-10-2007, 04:57 PM

I dont have anything smaller than a 12 ga. So when i go i always borrow a buddies 410 or 28 ga. Im pretty fond of the 28 ga. Its a smooth shooting gun...

wiscoshooter · 12-10-2007, 10:03 PM

Well, if you're going to get a new gun for just rabbit and squirrel (I think the 16 will be fine though) I would get a semi auto .22lr. You can buy one used for really cheap. If you're hunting rabbits, the semi auto is great, since you're shooting down, but if you're squirrel hunting, you'd better be a good shot and have self discipline and common sense to not shoot wildly into the air.

MIbeagleman · 12-11-2007, 10:38 AM

There is nothing wrong with the 16 ga. I used to only have a 12 ga and shot plenty of rabbits, squirrels, birds... with it and yes I have torn some of it up, but there were sometimes that I was glad I had it. If you are looking to get a new gun, then fine. A 28 ga supposedly is the best all around shotgun you can find. However, what you have will do the trick just fine.

I have found with a .410, that sometimes it isn't enough (shooting hare). I can make a good, well placed shot on a sitting target and that blasted hare will get up and run away. Then it is up to the dogs to either catch it or bring it around again. Cottontails don't seem to be so hearty.