Shotgun setup

However, proper load and choke combinations will be much more critical in these smaller caliber shotguns to ensure you have enough range and knockdown power to make an ethical shot. Another thing to consider is barrel length. The most popular shotgun caliber is the 12 gauge.

This is to be expected, however, because the 12 gauge shotgun is the all-around most popular shotgun caliber in general. The 12 gauge is arguably the best compromise between the larger calibers like the 8 and 10 gauges and the smaller ones like the 16 and 20 gauge. So, the bottom line is that you can make virtually any size shotgun work with the proper load, barrel size, and choke. There are many factors that come into play when deciding which is best for you, including what legal restrictions under which you may be bound.

So do your homework and make an informed decision based on your specific situation and needs. The answer to this question is, unfortunately, not a cut and dry one. Many jurisdictions place restrictions on the type of ammunition you can use in shotguns. Therefore, make sure to check the governing laws and regulations to be sure any of the ammunition discussed in this article is legal to use.

In addition to complying with the law, you want a load that will best accomplish your overall goals. This is where the first questions I had you ask yourself comes in. Range is also a factor to consider. Buckshot is a popular load that will provide good range flexibility, but it may inflict significant damage on the pelt if the coyote is relatively close when the load hits it.

That said, there are plenty of hunters that successfully take down coyotes with much lighter loads — even birdshot with a proper choke discussed below. So, unfortunately, there are too many variables to give a simple answer to this question.

This one, like most of the other components, talked about above, will depend on a few factors. When coyote hunting, you may often have an opportunity to shoot more than one time. So a semiautomatic may be appealing. However, there are reasons that you might not want to choose a pump-action shotgun over a semiautomatic. One of the most common reasons for choosing a pump over a semiautomatic is the price. While many customers call already owning the shotgun they intend to use, they often can also be in the market for a new one as well, possibly even in a different gauge.

For example, when hunting waterfowl , semi-automatics are the most commonly used. Occupying the most weight, these guns rely on either gas or recoil driven systems to cycle the shells, allowing the shooter to stay more focused on the target, thus reducing the need to cycle the next shell.

When it comes to turkey hunting , it could be argued that the most prominent shotgun is a true pump-action. Given the reduction in weight, these guns also provide a level of reliability that semi-automatics cannot provide.

This could prove crucial during a turkey hunt, especially as a beginner. In upland hunting i. With gauge selection comes a choice in payload, recoil, weight and lastly range. Most smaller gauges tend to have smaller frames.

For larger type people, a bigger gauge may feel more comfortable, as it has added size and length of pull. Smaller-framed individuals, or people looking for less recoil, may opt for a sub-gauge gun such as a 20, 28 or even a bore. These gauges offer less weight, recoil and ease of maneuvering. A smaller gauge may also provide an additional level of challenge.

Whatever the situation, premium performance and effectiveness are available to all outdoor enthusiasts. Tungsten Super Shot shells yield maximum pattern efficiency at various ranges. The 10 most popular stories of the day, delivered at 5pm UK time. Never miss a thing. Watch on YouTube.

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Buy things with globes on them And other lovely Eurogamer merch in our official store! Also, at point blank range buckshot regular ammo does more damage than slug.

With the spread that becomes quickly much less though. Shotguns take a while to get used to, since much of the game happens in the open world.

You'll be switching between slug and buckshot depending on the situation. As NC you'd probably be best with the 8 shot sweeper. Get an extended mag first, then get slug ammo once you get a good feel.

Some people take the higher scopes to "snipe" with slug ammo, but i wouldn't recommend it; shotguns don't have damage falloff I think but the projectiles are half the speed of a rifle. More of a gimmick really. Dryka , Dec 17, I've basically ignored what is said in these forums like the NS11 is the must-have gun for close and medium range, etc and go with a shotgun for CQC.

The shotgun just destroys enemies; I forget which one I am using but I doubt it matters much. The only mod it really needs is an expanded mag. I do have a 4x scope on it but I only use it for spotting; it is useless for actual combat.