Quick Answer
In Texas, the following factory loads are legal for small game hunting: .22 caliber rifles up to 30 grains, .17 caliber rifles up to 25 grains, and shotguns with 00 or 000 buckshot or birdshot smaller than 6mm, using either lead or non-lead shot. Handgun loads are generally restricted to .22 caliber or smaller. Shotguns can also use slugs.
Factory Rifle Loads for Small Game
In Texas, hunters often prefer factory loads that balance cost and ballistics for common cartridges. For .22 caliber rifles, popular factory loads include the CCI Velocitor, which has a muzzle velocity of 1,200 feet per second and a price point around $10 per box. Other options include the Remington Yellow Jacket and the Winchester Super-X. For .17 caliber rifles, factory loads such as the CCI Q, which has a muzzle velocity of 2,700 feet per second, are often preferred.
Shotgun Loads for Small Game
Shotguns are also effective for small game hunting in Texas. Factory loads with 00 or 000 buckshot are often used for larger game like raccoons and opossums, while birdshot smaller than 6mm is suitable for smaller game like rabbits and squirrels. Lead or non-lead shot can be used, depending on local regulations and personal preference. When choosing shotgun loads, consider the range and size of the target, as well as the desired spread and penetration. For example, a 12-gauge shotgun loaded with 00 buckshot at 1,200 feet per second can be effective for hunting larger small game at close range, while a 12-gauge loaded with 7.5mm birdshot at 1,200 feet per second is more suitable for hunting smaller game at longer ranges.
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