What Do Use To Hunt Squirrels

The #1 community for Gun Owners of the Northeast

Member Benefits:

  • No ad networks!
  • Discuss all aspects of firearm ownership
  • Discuss anti-gun legislation
  • Buy, sell, and trade in the classified section
  • Chat with Local gun shops, ranges, trainers & other businesses
  • Discover free outdoor shooting areas
  • View up to date on firearm-related events
  • Share photos & video with other members
  • ...and so much more!
  • Harrys

    Short Round
    Jul 12, 2014
    3,362
    SOMD
    What do you use to hunt squirrels a shot gun or 22?

    When I got stationed in Louisiana and went squirrel hunting I got laughed at. However, at the end of the day I was the only one with his limit of 10 and the only one using a 22.

    I did use a 410 one time but hated picking out the pellets and almost breaking a tooth on the one I missed. After that I always used a 22.
     

    Yingpin

    Ultimate Member
    May 31, 2013
    1,054
    Kingsville, MD
    When I take the boys, I have one carrying a .22 for the squirrels trying hide and are sitting still and the other one carry’s a .410 for the ones on the move.

    I have shot many with a 20 ga while bird hinting and don’t typically have to hard of a time with lead shot.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
     

    308Scout

    Ultimate Member
    MDS Supporter
    Mar 27, 2020
    6,544
    Washington County
    What do you use to hunt squirrels a shot gun or 22?

    When I got stationed in Louisiana and went squirrel hunting I got laughed at. However, at the end of the day I was the only one with his limit of 10 and the only one using a 22.

    I did use a 410 one time but hated picking out the pellets and almost breaking a tooth on the one I missed. After that I always used a 22.

    My selection varies on the season and squirrel behavior. If feeling the need to absolutely make a harvest rather than just walk in the woods, in early September when they are rarely on the ground - 20 Ga. 22lr as soon as they go into gathering mode and are frequently on the ground. My preference is the 22 overall though as dressing is usually cleaner and no shot needs to be picked out of the meat.
     

    lazarus

    Ultimate Member
    Jun 23, 2015
    13,678
    22 generally. If the foliage is still thick a 410 or 12ga depending on my mood and circumstances. I plan to finally start taking my kids next season squirrel hunting at which time both will be brought along. Nice to have options.

    Also I mostly agree I dislike picking out the pellets. That said, I've only killed and eaten about a half a dozen squirrels or so, mostly with a 22. So you can't really call me an expert (only been squirrel hunting a few times).
     

    John from MD

    American Patriot
    MDS Supporter
    May 12, 2005
    22,729
    Socialist State of Maryland
    What do you use to hunt squirrels a shot gun or 22?

    When I got stationed in Louisiana and went squirrel hunting I got laughed at. However, at the end of the day I was the only one with his limit of 10 and the only one using a 22.

    I did use a 410 one time but hated picking out the pellets and almost breaking a tooth on the one I missed. After that I always used a 22.

    .22 LR or .25 air rifle.
     

    joppaj

    Sheepdog
    Staff member
    Moderator
    Apr 11, 2008
    46,451
    MD
    I almost justified buying a Savage model 42 for this. Then I accepted that I've never shot a squirrel and saved the money.
     

    Glaron

    Camp pureblood 13R
    BANNED!!!
    MDS Supporter
    Mar 20, 2013
    12,752
    Virginia
    If I wanted to shoot squirrels in my backyard. Id use a Saiga 12. Lucky for them I dont care.:innocent0
     

    Derwood

    Ultimate Member
    Jun 2, 2011
    1,075
    DC area
    I've always used a 12 gauge but that's because it's usually opportunistic hunting for me while I'm waterfowling or rabbit hunting. If I was purposely hunting them, I'd use scoped .22
     

    Biggfoot44

    Ultimate Member
    Aug 2, 2009
    32,877
    Very Oversimplified :

    12 to 20 ga shotgun , most expedient way to harvest squirrels

    .22lr Rifle - Many people prefer either to use .22lr ( or closely related)rifle , because they Like rifles ,or they prefer long shots at distant stationary- ish squirrels , instead of short to medium fast moving squirrels.

    .22lr Handgun - You're either a hardcore handgunner , or you want lots of challenge .
     

    Users who are viewing this thread

    Latest posts

    Forum statistics

    Threads
    274,918
    Messages
    7,258,679
    Members
    33,348
    Latest member
    Eric_Hehl

    Latest threads

    Top Bottom