Grouse - gauge, load and choke?

[hammAR]

Am I the only one that hunts Grouse with a .22 pistol? I don't take wing shots and usually hit them in the head on the ground. If I miss the head on the first shot I've often had the Grouse just stand there and I get a second shot. They are kind of a dumb bird.

Isn't hunting about "fair chase" dude...........like letting them at least get off the ground......

[JoeH]

Isn't hunting about "fair chase" dude...........like letting them at least get off the ground......

So, when you are Deer hunting, do you say "BOO" before you shoot? You know, to give them a chance to bolt...

[hammAR]

Isn't hunting about "fair chase" dude...........like letting them at least get off the ground......

So, when you are Deer hunting, do you say "BOO" before you shoot? You know, to give them a chance to bolt...

Haven't tried "Boo" yet, usually just yell "Duck", and they don't...........

[Pred]

Am I the only one that hunts Grouse with a .22 pistol? I don't take wing shots and usually hit them in the head on the ground. If I miss the head on the first shot I've often had the Grouse just stand there and I get a second shot. They are kind of a dumb bird.

I think that is definately a viable method... I bet I could bag as many with that method as I've ever shot on the wing. We've had guys in our deer hunting party take one with the 30.06 on occasion.

[Pred]

Am I the only one that hunts Grouse with a .22 pistol? I don't take wing shots and usually hit them in the head on the ground. If I miss the head on the first shot I've often had the Grouse just stand there and I get a second shot. They are kind of a dumb bird.

Isn't hunting about "fair chase" dude...........like letting them at least get off the ground......

I think shooting them in the head with a .22 pistol is sporting enough...

[westberg]

How much do you lead them? I suppose it depends on how fast they are walking!!!!!

[Pred]

The tricky part is timing the 'head bob'

[cobb]

I think shooting them in the head with a .22 pistol is sporting enough...

So next week you are?

[hammAR]

We've had guys in our deer hunting party take one with the 30.06 on occasion.

I've never seen a Grouse shot with a 30-06, of course maybe that is self evident, or lack thereof..........

ETA: And I am not taking a shot at anyone for shooting a Grouse with a .22................

[rucker]

My dad and I went grouse hunting once and one just flew up onto a tree branch about 15' up and sat there. Being sporting we didn't just shoot it though. We tried everything to get it to fly; hitting the tree with a stick, throwing sticks at the bird, and yelling at it. Finally it flew and we both proceeded to miss it

[Pred]

I think shooting them in the head with a .22 pistol is sporting enough...

So next week you are?

I just might carry one on my hip and if the occasion presents itself......

[DeanC]

I've eaten grouse that were shot with a .338 win mag and 7mm mag. Headshots both.

[Tabsr]

Hope I can with my Model 12 winchester, 16ga modified choke, mfg 1937.

[JonnyB]

I normally use my 870 Wingmaster with a 20" (smooth-bore) slug barrel. It works well with 7 1/2 shot. Very fast to swing; decent pattern and comfortable to carry all day.

Of course, my only other choice is a 30" full-choke barrel.

jb