08-15-2005, 03:52 PM
Here is a little different angle on the proper choke for hunting pheasant. I have hunted pheasants for almost 40 years and I usually use 4 shot and a full choke. The reason for this is I feel confident with my gun and I don't shoot the birds at close range. The bigger pellets have better penetration and the birds aren't very shot up. The other reason is after the hunt has been on for a while the birds get wild and you aren't always offered a nice close shot.
I have used both 5 and 6 shot in the past but I certanly have more faith in making good clean kills using 4 shot and a full choke.
If you are just starting out let me make a couple of suggestions. Try to hunt with someone that is experienced and has a quality dog.
Pheasants can be a challenge and losing cripples is frustrating.
If want some good practice I would start with doves and then chukars. This will give you a good feel for wing shooting and you will be better prepared for pheasants when november rolls around. Just my opinion. G. shorthair
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I have used both 5 and 6 shot in the past but I certanly have more faith in making good clean kills using 4 shot and a full choke.
If you are just starting out let me make a couple of suggestions. Try to hunt with someone that is experienced and has a quality dog.
Pheasants can be a challenge and losing cripples is frustrating.
If want some good practice I would start with doves and then chukars. This will give you a good feel for wing shooting and you will be better prepared for pheasants when november rolls around. Just my opinion. G. shorthair
[signature]