Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Whats the best caliber for hunting squirrels? I'd like to know?

I have a 10 gauge and ive been thinking about using that but idk if that will work or should i use my 22.Whats the best caliber for hunting squirrels? I'd like to know?
I've shot squirrel with a 10 gauge before. I was turkey hunting and was bored.





The most entertaining gun would be a 22 rimfire. Either the long rifle or a winchester magnum version.





The 410 bore is a lot of fun too. And, I have a love affair with anything in 16 gauge.Whats the best caliber for hunting squirrels? I'd like to know?
10 gauge, what an odd caliber. didn't know anyone still have one of those





.22LR is much better than the 10 gauge. there won't be much damage to the animal besides blended internals and two holes. if you used the 10 ga, you'll achieve overkill very easily and there won't be much left.
a .22 is all around the best for a squirel. A ten gauge would leave a ball of blood and mist!


If you get good enough with it, you can practice what we called ';barking a squirrel'; with your .22


You shoot the branch right in front of the squirrel and the bark becomes schrapnel that will kill the squirrel, but not destroy the meat. We learned this as kids when we hunted for food on the table.


shoot safe
well if you are stuck with either a .22 or a 10 gauge then the obvious answer is the .22. I used my Ruger 10/22 for years to take on the dangerous bushy tails. As long as you don't shoot them in the hind legs you won't waist much meat, most is in the back legs but there is some in the front.





But if you are in the neighborhood for a new squirrel gun then i would recommend a .17hmr. these are a sweet little gun that is far more accurate than any .22lr. The ammo is more expensive but being able to shoot one in the head from 100 yards or more makes it worth it.





All this talk about squirrels just might make me have to go out tomorrow.
personaly i'd opt for the 22, you can buy 550 rounds for about 15 bucks. The ole 10 ga. will make it much simpler but expensive. You may not know if you hit it because it will probably turn to squirrel dust. Also a good way to go if wifey poo sees you, you can tell her ducks are venomous and you just saved her life. I shoot a win model 94 with a 2x7 scope. The little 22 is the best round ever poured. Luck to you.
a 10 gauge will powder a squirrel, I've seen it done with a 12 gauge.


a .22 long rifle is perfect for squirrels, make sure to take head shots or you'll ruin the meat.
22 is the way to go. Stick to head shots, it will make you more accurate and save the meat.
I love using my 17hmr with 20gr game-pointss, just shoot them in the head oranywheree in the front 1/3 and they die very quickly. Your 22 will work fine. Good luck!
Id buy a .177 air rifle. Gamo shadow sport is cheap reliable and will put down a squirrel with ease. Ive done it many times..
Use the 22. If you aren't going to be eating the meat use the 10 gauge just for fun.
If you want to eat the meat you should use a .22 lol

1 comment:

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