Anyone use 16 gauge?

[Birder]

I've taken up hunting upland birds in the last few years and am now looking at getting a 16 gauge s/s. I thought about a .410 but am thinking about going for some ducks this year and figured a 16 could work for both and I wouldn't have to spend a ton of cash. Anybody used a 16 gauge for both? Or does anyone have a better idea?

[catnthehat]

Unless you hand load, 16 gauge ammo is hard to find and can be pricey.
If you are hunting ducks over decoys however, a 20 gauge is a great gun, if you are mostly doing the upland thing, and ammo is readily available for it.
I've killed hundreds of ducks and geese with a 20 gauge.

The reason I say 20 gauge is because they will be lighter for packing around after pheasants and grouse than a 12 will be.
Cat

[Pudelpointer]

I agree with Cat, though I have a love of the 16.

While a 16 is excellent upland / duck medicine, finding 16 gauge steel shotshells can be a pita. 20 gauge is a fair bit easier to find, while 12 gauge can be found everywhere.

2 3/4" 16 gauge is a bit limited when you start looking at larger shot sizes in steel for geese - it can work, but not the best.

Still, a great choice for upland.

[rottie]

What factory shells would u recomend Cat,for a older Citori 20 gauge,I dont believe its steel compatable ? A 3 inch chamber

[Birder]

Thanks Cat, I was always told a 20 gauge didn't have the best power for geese so I didn't really consider it. I load my own 12g shells but don't think I want to spend the cash to get a 16g setup. I think I'll take your advise and look for a 20 instead. Thanks again.

[bearhunter338-06]

I shoot a 16ga and have no problems finding 16ga shells. I can get them at my Canadian Tire store. Every gun shop I have been in including whole sale sports sells 16ga shells. Do your self a favor look at your local shops befor you jump off the 16ga band wagon. You wont be disappointed.

[Birder]

You're able to find them in steel too?