What Ammo Is Best for Grouse? The Expert Guide
The absolute best ammo for grouse is generally a light load of #7.5 or #8 shot in either 12, 16, or 20 gauge, balancing sufficient power for ethical kills at close range with minimal meat damage. Choosing the right load, however, involves several considerations addressed below.
Introduction: The Art of the Grouse Load
Grouse hunting, a cherished tradition in many parts of the world, demands more than just a good dog and a keen eye. Success hinges on the ability to consistently deliver well-placed shots, and that begins with selecting the appropriate ammunition. What ammo is best for grouse? is a question that sparks debate among seasoned hunters. While personal preference plays a role, understanding the bird’s size, typical shooting distances, and ethical harvesting practices is paramount. This guide delves into the key factors that influence ammo selection, offering insights that will help you bag more birds and minimize meat spoilage.
Gauge Selection: Power vs. Payload
Choosing the right gauge is fundamental. Lighter gauges generally produce less recoil, enabling faster follow-up shots. Heavier gauges offer denser patterns and more power, which can be advantageous in certain situations.
- 12 Gauge: A popular choice, offering versatility. Load it with lighter shells for grouse.
- 16 Gauge: A classic option, providing a good balance of power and manageable recoil.
- 20 Gauge: Increasingly popular due to its lighter weight and reduced recoil, ideal for upland hunting.
- 28 Gauge and .410 Bore: Suitable for experienced shooters comfortable with their limitations and shorter range.
Ultimately, the best gauge is the one you shoot most accurately and comfortably. Pattern your shotgun with different loads to determine what works best for you.
Shot Size: Balancing Range and Meat Damage
Shot size is a critical consideration. Smaller shot sizes deliver denser patterns, increasing the likelihood of hitting a moving bird. Larger shot sizes retain more energy at longer distances but can cause excessive damage at close range.
- #7.5 Shot: An excellent all-around choice for grouse hunting, offering a good balance of range and pattern density.
- #8 Shot: A slightly smaller shot size that excels at shorter ranges, delivering dense patterns. Ideal for close-cover hunting.
- #9 Shot: Best suited for very close ranges and situations where meat preservation is a primary concern. Not recommended for shots beyond 20 yards.
- #6 Shot: Generally too large for grouse, potentially causing excessive meat damage. Should only be considered for late-season hunts in open cover where longer shots are anticipated.
Load Considerations: Velocity and Dram Equivalent
The term “dram equivalent” is a dated measure of powder charge, but it’s still used on some shotshell boxes. A lower dram equivalent generally equates to less recoil. Aim for a moderate velocity (around 1200 fps) to avoid excessive recoil and potential meat damage. Lighter loads with lower dram equivalents are ideal for grouse hunting.
Shot Material: Lead vs. Nontoxic Alternatives
Traditionally, lead shot was the standard for upland hunting. However, due to environmental concerns, many areas now require the use of nontoxic alternatives such as steel, bismuth, or tungsten.
- Lead: Offers excellent density and pattern performance. Check local regulations before using lead shot.
- Steel: Less dense than lead, requiring larger shot sizes for comparable performance. Patterning is crucial.
- Bismuth: A good lead alternative with similar density and pattern characteristics.
- Tungsten: Extremely dense, providing excellent performance but at a higher cost.
If required to use steel shot, consider moving up a shot size or two to compensate for its lower density.
Choke Selection: Matching Your Environment
The choke of your shotgun constricts the shot pattern as it exits the barrel. Open chokes produce wider patterns at shorter distances, while tighter chokes concentrate the pattern for longer shots.
- Improved Cylinder (IC): A good all-around choke for grouse hunting in typical cover. Provides a wide pattern for close shots.
- Skeet: Even more open than Improved Cylinder, ideal for extremely close-range encounters.
- Modified (M): Suitable for slightly longer shots in more open cover. Can be used with smaller shot sizes like #8 or #7.5.
Experiment with different chokes and loads to determine what works best for your shooting style and hunting environment.
The Importance of Patterning Your Shotgun
Regardless of the ammo you choose, it’s essential to pattern your shotgun. This involves shooting at a target (typically a 30-inch circle) at various distances to determine the density and distribution of the shot pattern. Patterning reveals how your gun performs with different loads and chokes, allowing you to make informed decisions about your ammo selection. Aim for an evenly distributed pattern with sufficient pellet density to ensure ethical kills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the ideal shot size for grouse hunting in thick cover?
In thick cover, where shots are typically close and fleeting, #8 or even #9 shot is generally preferred. These smaller shot sizes deliver dense patterns at close range, increasing the likelihood of hitting the bird even if your aim isn’t perfect.
Can I use the same ammo for grouse and woodcock?
Yes, in most cases, the same ammo works well for both grouse and woodcock. #7.5 or #8 shot is a popular choice for both species, offering a good balance of range and pattern density. Adjust your choke accordingly depending on the cover.
Is steel shot effective for grouse hunting?
Steel shot can be effective for grouse, but it requires careful consideration. Due to its lower density compared to lead, you may need to increase the shot size (e.g., from #8 lead to #6 or #7 steel) to achieve similar penetration and pattern density. Patterning your shotgun with steel shot is crucial to ensure adequate performance.
What is the maximum effective range for grouse hunting?
The maximum effective range for grouse hunting is typically around 30-40 yards. Beyond that, the shot pattern becomes too sparse to reliably deliver ethical kills. Keeping shots within this range is essential for responsible hunting.
What type of shotgun is best for grouse hunting?
A lightweight, fast-handling shotgun is ideal for grouse hunting. Over-unders, side-by-sides, and semi-automatic shotguns are all popular choices. Gauge selection is more important than the specific action type. The best shotgun is the one that fits you well and that you can shoot accurately.
What is the most common mistake grouse hunters make with their ammo selection?
One of the most common mistakes is using too much shot or too large of a shot size. This can lead to excessive meat damage and wasted birds. Stick to lighter loads and smaller shot sizes for optimal results.
How does weather affect ammo selection for grouse?
In cold weather, ammunition performance can be affected. Consider using ammo specifically designed for cold temperatures or ensuring your ammo is stored at room temperature before hunting. The velocity of some powders can decrease in very cold conditions.
Is it ethical to use very small shot sizes like #9 for grouse?
Using #9 shot can be ethical for very close-range shots (within 20 yards) where meat preservation is a primary concern. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re making clean kills. If you’re unsure of your ability to consistently hit vital areas, it’s best to use a slightly larger shot size like #8.
What is the advantage of using low-recoil ammo for grouse hunting?
Low-recoil ammo allows for faster follow-up shots and reduces fatigue, which is especially important during long days in the field. It also makes the shooting experience more enjoyable, leading to better accuracy.
Can I use target loads for grouse hunting?
Yes, you can use target loads for grouse hunting, as long as they contain appropriate shot sizes (#7.5 or #8). Target loads are often lighter and produce less recoil, making them a good option for grouse hunting. However, make sure they are lead-free if required.
What should I look for when buying grouse ammo?
When buying grouse ammo, look for loads that are specifically designed for upland hunting or target loads with appropriate shot sizes. Pay attention to the dram equivalent (or velocity) to ensure the load is not too heavy. Read reviews and consider the recommendations of other grouse hunters.
How do I know if I am using the right ammo for grouse?
The best way to determine if you are using the right ammo is to pattern your shotgun, observe the results of your shots in the field, and adjust accordingly. If you’re consistently missing birds or experiencing excessive meat damage, it’s time to experiment with different loads and chokes.