Shot for pheasants, rabbits and quail

[mike8946]

I will be going hunting soon with my 20 ga. mag 870 and was wondering what shot would be a good choice for pheasants, rabbit and quail?  I have some Federal High Velocity shells in #6, (2 3/4"),which I think would probably be fine for the pheasants and rabbits, but would it be too much for quail?  Should I get a box of # 7 1/2's?  Whatcha think? :grin:

[Graybeard]

I think I'd bring along that box of #7-1/2s.

GB

[mike8946]

Are you saying 7 1/2's for all three or just the quail?  7 1/2's seem a bit small for pheasant to me, but then again, I ain't no expert.
Thanks.

[86er]

For pheasant I like field loads of 5 or 6 shot. The same work well for cottonbunnies. On quail 7 1/2s would be just about perfect. I have used my 20 ga 870LW for more than 20 yrs without a hitch. I also use my Fox doubles in 16 and 20 ga, especially on quail and doves. Whatever you use, have a great time in the field.

[Graybeard]

You asked if you should take along a box of 7-1/2s for the quail. I suggested you do so. That was for the quail not the pheasant. I've never shot pheasant as we don't have them here in the deep south but I do shoot a lot of crows and 7-1/2s sure do a fine job of them. Still I think I'd go with #6 for them especially if jumping them and shooting from behind. If I was taking them coming at me I'd feel real good with the smaller shot but since ya can't pick yer shots the larger shot should be better.

GB

[i303]

You'll want the 5 or 6 for longer shots on pheasant, especially if you are hunting in windy conditions.  My favorite all around size is 6.  I use it for everything you mentioned out of my over/under.  
i303

[mike8946]

Thanks, guys!  I appreciate the help.

[AKA Craig]

hey i am 15 and i got a remington 870 express super mag. and i was wondering if this is a good gun and what shot for rabbits we shot a big rabbit the other day bout 1 1/4 foot long just a big "ol cottontail couldnt believe how big he was i shot him with #6's and damn near blew his back leg off my he still ran so my couisin shot and hit him in the chest with a 410 didnt die my uncle shot it with a .22 i couldnt believe this rabbit could live this long with a bum leg and a hole in its chest but anyways whay loads do you suggest i have a modified choke and thinking of getting a full oh i am also trying to get a 12 gauge and want to know what is a good gun and can i shoot ducks and geese with my 20?

[tranders]

I use number 6 shot for just about everything except squirell and then I use number 4 shot.The only reason I use 4 shot on squirell is because the pattern isn't so dense,less time picking shot out of the critter. For late season Pheasant without a dog you might want bigger shot than number 6 for the longer shots. Good Luck !!!