[petey]

Yup,

You have to pattern that gun. I personally use the Winchester Supreams. I shoot 2 oz of #6's out of my 12 gauge. She'll put a whallop on them and believe it or not can get an extra 5 more yards than the Rem Hevi-shot. Both shoot well to 40 yards though.

It's still a 40 yard gun, although I've stretched it a bit farther. I'm talking 6 to 10 in the kill zone. It only takes one, but I don't gamble, once I get below 3-4 in the kill everytime, then that's my range. I personally prefer them to be between 20 and 30 yards. Once they hit 30 they are toast. Any closer than 20 and she's starting to get tight. I've killed them as close as 5 yards, but you need to hunker down since you're shooting a quarter sized load at that distance. Some guys claim 50 and 60 yards, but where's the fun in that? Heck If I could kill every bird I've had at 60 yards I'd have my seasons wrapped up in no time. I guess I like to hunt more than the first 5 minutes on the first morning.

You'll be hooked once you call your first bird in. I've traveled to 9 different states and shot quite a few in my short hunting career. It still calls me back every year! You don't need the big guns with the super loads though. I've called them in and killed big ol birds with a modified choked 20 gauge. Just shortens your range a bit. Of course, you don't even need a shotgun. Break out the bow and you're in for a real thrill! Don't get me started on turkey already..heck deer season is just about to start!