Hunting with a .410

[HighWildFree]

I plan on trying out some upland game hunting with a .410 pump this year, and am interested in what others who do the same use in regards to Shot shell selection.

I figure to use 2 1/2 #8's for dove and quail(or should I use 7 1/2's) and #6's for rabbit. Also does anyone use 3inch shells? The seem to slow down a lot more than 2 1/2" shells.

And yes I am aware of the difficulty of using a .410 for taking game, only take shots that are within proper range. I do need some more practice though, only tried the .410 once on trap and once on skeet, and ended with 18/25 on trap and 14/25 on skeet.

Also I heard 8 1/2's are pretty darn deadly on doves any one try them?

[stevec223]

I use my 410's quite a bit... Doves and quail i like 7.5's,,, a little more energy on target... i have used 6 shot ,,,in all guages ,,,for shooting flushing quail 35-45 yds out for the knock-down power though...Between 2 1/2 and 3 in shells it really depends on situation.. Jump shooting i usually shoot 3in for the bigger payload... Fast 2 1/2 inch shells I use pass shooting on doves... Rem makes a 2 1/2 in. shell with 6 shot at 1250 fps thats useful in some purposes... Usually i shoot 6's in 3 in. Loads though... I like rem., win., rio., shells and have usually purchased them online at natchez for best selection and price.... Trap ,skeet, and sporting clays especially will tune you up to hit the field !!! My 12 and 20 ga are usually at home waiting for duck season,,, 410 and 28 ga have taken over the rest of the year... I just can't pick-up a 12 or 20 ga. anymore for upland,,, it just seems like way overgunned to me... Good shooting and luck with the 410 obsession !!!!.... Cheers...

[CSACANNONEER]

I like my 410s and have taken upland game and waterfowl with them. My grandpa's old single shot Steven is chambered in 2 1/2" only so, that's what I load and use in all my 410s unless someone gives me some 3" shells.