Trying to dial in my 20ga for pheasant over my GSP. Pattern seems off at 30 yards.
Been hunting pheasant with my Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus 20ga for two seasons now. My GSP is getting me solid points, but I feel like I'm missing birds I should be hitting at 30-35 yards. I've been using a Modified choke with Federal Premium 3" #6 shot (1 1/4 oz). The pattern just doesn't seem dense enough when I check it on paper. Anyone else run into this with a 20ga?
1 Answer
Good question - the 20ga can be tricky on longer pheasant shots. I'd try two things: first, switch to an Improved Modified choke. That'll tighten things up a bit for those 30+ yard crossing shots. Second, consider dropping to #5 shot if your state allows it - you'll get better penetration on those late-season roosters. I've had good luck with Winchester Super-X 3" #5s through an IM choke in my Browning Citori 20ga. What's your lead looking like on those misses?
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