Shotguns for Bobcats

B

bbell

New member
I did a search but didn't find what I needed. What size shot would you guys use for cats w/ a 20ga? Also how is the pelt damage with the shotgun? I would like to sell my hides this winter. I have a 22hornet, should I just stick with that. Thanks for any help.

-Brandon Bell
 
.20 gauge? Since I don't use a .20 ga for predators, here is an educated guess... I'd seek out a "denser than lead" Hevi-Shot type high velocity waterfowl type load (NOT STEEL SHOT) with a shot size of #2, B, or BB and shoot it from a tight choke. Pattern on paper to determine point of aim and pattern density. Limit distance to less than 40 yards and I think you will do alright.
 
#4 buckshot works well out of a 12 ga. for bobcats with nothing more than a hole the size of the shot.

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I have not used a 20 ga on them, but don't see why it would do fine. I have had good luck with both the .243 (58 gr. V-max) and .223 (55 gr. Sierra Game King) doing minimal damage as well. On several the 58 gr. v-max didn't even exit like the one on the right above. All 3 were dead in their tracks. 2 with the shotgun and one with the rifle.
 
Thanks. The areas I will be hunting are pretty thick. I figured I would try out the ol' scatter gun. We will see how it goes this winter
 
Quote:
I have a 22hornet, should I just stick with that.



Yes. Load that Hornet with 45 grain SP bullets, (handloaded or store bought) and you will be great on cats. The Hornet will not tear up a cat at all.
 
Actually I did see some #4 buck in the 20ga...I think It was at gander, I was out there looking for chokes and shells to pattern my new gun and came across it. THe only reason I remember it was there is I thought some 20ga buck would be good for the wife's gun when im not at home and was gonna get some of it for her.

good luck

Dave
 
Saw some 20 gauge buck at Dicks last week. I was thinking it was an awfully small box for 12 gauge shells until I saw another stack a couple rows over. Its hard trying to read small print from behind the counter.
 
Thanks guys. Yeah I got a 20ga that I think would be nice for thick cover. The hornet I have is pretty accurate, I think that it should be the ticket for Mr bobby. I have a whole bunch of factory hollow points, do yall think that would mess the hide up to much?
 
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