Quick Answer
For early season teal, a 20-gauge shotgun is usually a better choice as it generates less recoil and is easier to handle for longer periods, allowing for faster recovery and follow-up shots.
Choosing the Right Gauge for Teal Hunting
When it comes to hunting early season teal, choosing the right gauge shotgun can make a significant difference in your overall success. Teal are fast-moving birds that require quick follow-up shots, and a shotgun that’s too heavy or generates too much recoil can hinder your ability to shoot accurately.
Gauge Selection for Teal Hunting
A 20-gauge shotgun is generally considered the ideal choice for teal hunting due to its lighter weight and lower recoil. This allows you to swing your gun quickly and shoot accurately, even in hot and humid conditions where you may be shooting for extended periods. In particular, a 20-gauge can be a good choice for shorter ranges (15-25 yards) and higher bird counts, which are common in early season teal hunting. A 12-gauge, on the other hand, may be better suited for longer ranges or larger waterfowl species.
Load Selection for Teal Hunting
Regardless of gauge, it’s essential to choose the right load for teal hunting. For early season teal, a 3-inch, 1 1/8 oz. load with 5 shot is an excellent choice. This load size provides a good balance between penetration and spread, allowing you to hit teal at close to medium ranges. Avoid using larger loads or longer shells, as these can be too heavy and may cause you to lose control of your gun during follow-up shots.
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