Quail hunters a few questions

[Hunt]

I know nothing about quail hunting, going to try this year. Does a semi auto or pump action really make a difference? Is a single shot a real limiting factor for success? I am thinking, if you don't get it with that first shot they are gone so fast no time for a follow up anyway, so there is time to reload a single shot before next flush, is this the case?

[pennstater]

What shotgun are you going to be using? How much practice do you have? Have you patterned it yet? Pumps are probably the most popular, followed by semi-auto's.

[TheCarpenter]

I personally and that's just me personally prefer a light wieght 20ga. semi auto. I can't stress the light weight enough. My bros under over 20ga. works great but not its not 5.5 lbs. like my Franchi. Real quail hunting in my area requires serious climbing up and down ridge after ridge, the lighter the better in my opinion. A 3rd shot can be a nice luxury too, especially when the one that was holding tight decides to break as your heading toward your downed bird.

[MJB]

Single shot will be hard

Most of the time they will run first then hide and when they flush it can me multiple flushes from one bush always take your time on the first shot some birds will hold longer so you can get multiple shots on birds rather quickly.

Also watch where they fly to so you can get another flush on single or double birds.

[pennstater]

Wait until the OP tries Chukar. He'll be inventing cuss words! But, they sure are fun.

[tnlrat37]

I use a Winchester 1300 speed pump. Remember quail fly in coveys so you will want all the shots you can. Especially if you catch them on the ground. However don't be that guy that flock shoots 3 then can't find any of them. Last few years I have just been shooting one then watch it fall and take note then walk straight to it and have been finding a lot more birds this way. Be sure to practice as much as you can before going out. I had a friend this year who was new that went through 2 boxes of ammo and didn't hit anything. He had a semi auto. I don't think it matters much semi vs pump if you practice but a single shot will just frustrate the he.. out of you.

[Hunt]

thanks guys, looking at the compact semi autos in 20 ga

[TheCarpenter]

thanks guys, looking at the compact semi autos in 20 ga

This is the one that got my money 5.5lbs nice shooter

http://www.franchiusa.com/48-al-semi-auto-shotgun

[Jimmy's]

Semi > Pump

But Over n Under get the Throne.

[Irishfisher]

deleted

[chuckdc]

Semi > Pump

But Over n Under get the Throne.

Till the side-by shows up.

[parcours]

I know nothing about quail hunting, going to try this year. Does a semi auto or pump action really make a difference? Is a single shot a real limiting factor for success? I am thinking, if you don't get it with that first shot they are gone so fast no time for a follow up anyway, so there is time to reload a single shot before next flush, is this the case?

Semi, pump, SxS or O/U is the only way to go. I wouldn't use a single shot, no pratical.

As far as getting a second shot, it depends on a few factors... If you're hunting with a good dog second shots are the norm. Typically when the covey flushes, you'll get a chance at a couple. No dog, then it depends on the size of covey and how many scare up or run away.

In either case, get a shotgun that you feel comfortable with and go have fun...

After you chase a few quail, you'll need to try your luck at Chukar

[guns4life]

I take my Beretta O/U for all of my field work and leave the SX3 semi as a backup(+duck )...I find my accuracy improves(and my ammo lasts longer!) when I do not have the extra shell to fall back on.

[JagerDog]

I have quite a few shotguns in various configurations. For quail I grab the 20g Benneli Montefeltro. I seldom shoot the 3rd shot at the original bird. It's not rare that I shoot the 3rd shot at subsequent birds. I can reload the magazine on the fly without looking and the gun remains in battery. Try that with a break barrel.

[Horrendo Revolver]

thanks guys, looking at the compact semi autos in 20 ga

Why are you looking at compacts? Are you of smaller than normal stature?