The Ideal Squirrel Hunting Gun

Squirrel hunters are an old fashioned bunch. There are no record books to seek placement in. There are no large national organizations to join. It is just the hunter, the squirrel, and the frying pan. Squirrel hunting is about getting into the woods and gathering some meat for the pot. As such the ideal squirrel hunting gun needs to perform just one function: killing squirrels. Here is my choice for the ideal gun for squirrel hunting. While they say that opinions are like buttholes (everyone has one) I will also explain why I think my pick is perfect.

The ideal squirrel hunting gun is a single shot 20 gauge shotgun with a full choke. A gun such as the Harrington and Richardson Pardner is the ideal. Now let me explain why.

First, let’s examine the choice of the 20 gauge. I ruled out the ever popular .22 (and other rifles) for the following reasons. It is hard to make a finishing off shot with a .22 and the idea of shooting squirrels out of trees is just bad. Even with a backstop, the little bullet passing through a squirrel can come out at an odd angle and leave the little projectile flying through the woods. A 12 gauge is simply over kill for most hunting purposes, the 12 does have an advantage in inexpensive ammo. The 16 gauge is also a fine choice but the lack of variety in loads rules it out. Yes, a large variety of loads are made, but the backwoods stores are likely to carry only one or two. The 28 gauge and .410 don’t have enough power to bring the squirrels out of tall trees. I know it is done all the time, but a 20 gauge will do it better.

The reason for the single shot selection will now be explored. Single shots are as simple and reliable as possible. Get one with an exposed hammer (such as the Pardner) for quick and safe cocking and uncocking, which is much more reliable than a safety. Single shots are also inexpensive and very light. The need for super quick follow up shots is few and far between in squirrel hunting. This makes the extra weight of an autoloader, pump, or double just unneeded weight on most trips into the woods. In fact, with practice you will be surprised how quick you can reload a single shot.

The selection of full choke is simple as well. This helps the squirrel hunter’s shot to reach out farther with killing power. Some claim the full choke is too dense for up close work, but this is nonsense. If the squirrel is 10 yards or so away, simple hold off a little bit. If the squirrel is going up a tree just aim a little above its head and let the side of the pattern do the work.

Remember, regardless of the gun you use be safe and be conscientious. Hunters have a responsibility to assure the safety of those around them and the obligation to quickly kill the game we pursue. And don’t forget to take a kid along with you.