Need Information on Hunting with Buckshot

[squirrel_hunter6]

 
My friend's dad just joined a hunting club in West Central Alabama and said he would take my friend and I with him a couple of times. From what I understand the club only uses dogs to hunt deer with. A couple of people have told me that this is the most enjoyable way to hunt deer.  
 
Now, getting to my question, only buckshot is allowed for hunting. I was wondering what size is recommended and could somebody give me the diameter of the pellet for different sizes like #4, 1, 0, 00, and 000? What kind of pattern are you looking for? I was thinking of something like trying to keep 5 or 6 pellets on 8.5"x11" paper at 40 yards. Should I try shooting different brands to see which patterns the best or does it matter? What is the maximum effective distance?  By the way I have a 12ga Remington 870 Express Magnum.
 
Thanks for your Suggestions.  :mrgreen:  
 
Note: I will put this message in the Shotgun Forum as well.

[flintlock]

Squirrel....You do need to pattern buckshot in your gun...If you have screw in chokes start with Improved....Usually I see best patterns with the Federal Premium and Winchester Supreme lines...both are copper plated and buffered...I start with 00 and if they don't produce a good pattern I go with #1s...I have guns that prefer both...My 3" Browning likes the 00...My Remington 2 3/4 likes #1s...both will do the job out to 40-50 yards...and I don't like to shoot farther than that with buckshot....Also...with a rifle I expect one good shot...with buckshot....take that first good shot....and give followup as long as they are standing....

To pattern I pace off 40 yards....I put up a newspaper....unfolded like you are reading it...and staple a 8 1/2 x 11 piece of paper in the middle....That is my aiming point...Or about the size of the chest on a deer....if you can put 3-5 pellets into that paper you are good to go....you also need to make note of which brand centers your pattern best....If you don't get good results after trying both brands of buckshot....change chokes and try again....I have heard of people getting better groups with tighter chokes...but I never have...Good Luck

[squirrel_hunter6]

Thanks for the reply Flintlock.
 
This weekend I plan on shopping around to see what ammo is available locally. I will definitely look for the Federal Premiums and the Winchester Supremes. If I can't find a good selection I will make an order at midwayusa.com.