I have a 20 gauge pump that I used to use, but I switched over to the .410 because it was lighter andI made cleaner shots. Iused to usea .22 caliber but my vision is nto what it used to be and I miss most of the time. With the .410 I end up getting the grouse with a good clean shot at close range as they are trying to run away through the woods. During the late hunt in December they are up the the birch trees in the evening budding in the branches. I don't like blasting them with too many pellets if I can help it.