12 ga too big for grouse?

[Bean Counter]

We're off to Mica Peak to fill our doe tags. I'm thinking we may bring a ShogG in tow since I have a small game license.  I should probably check the regs but I think they're open now.  Do I want steel shot if I'm going to shoot a bird or two while out coming the area for does?

[Sagedawg]

 You can hunt grouse on your big game license, because they are not an upland species such as quail or pheasant. I wouldnt use any steel to hunt grouse, regular game loads will be fine. Good luck on your hunt.


  Sage

[Bscman]

+1 on no steel...especially if you hunt around rocks, or like to smack 'em when they're on the edge of the road---PRIVATE ROAD (not a road publicly funded--that is illegal!).

I used full choke and # 7 1/2 shot for years without an issue, just gotta be more concerned about shot placement.
I'm using a modified choke now with #6's, just to try something different. Works great, and is a bit easier on-the-fly.

As mentioned, you don't need a small game license for grouse.
Both coyote and grouse can be hunted with EITHER a small or big game license.

Good luck!

[merlo105]

Well 12 ga, is fine I wouldnt shoot steel I would go with a light skeet load, 71/2 or even 8. And choke depends on terrain your hunting, if your driving around then any chokes gonna be fine walking then your gonna wanna skeet, Cyl, imcyl.

[DeKuma]

Yup, what they said. 
I have been using Modified choke and #6 for years with excellent results out to 40+ yards.  BIG pattern at that range though.

[C-Money]

I agree,no steel! I use my trap reloads, they are cheap and plentiful. I shoot 7 1/2 shot for trap in the fall due to hunting season, but go back to 8's in the spring! Back to the subject, 6, 7 1/2, or 8's with a mod choke is really just fine in a 20,16 or 12ga. Have fun!

[CP]

I learned the hard way that my 12 gauge full choke doesn’t leave much to eat when I use #6 shot.  7 ½ does a better job.

[Yummy and Tasty Animal]

i'm pretty sure you can use a .22 for grouse.  double check the game manual, but if you can that's what i would be using.

[rasbo]

I use a 22 mag on them,cuts their neck off,no bad meat.I bought the rifle from another member,

[Bscman]

i'm pretty sure you can use a .22 for grouse.  double check the game manual, but if you can that's what i would be using.

You can.
I carry a "accurized" Ruger MKIII pistol when I'm hiking/fishing areas I know hold grouse. A 22lr is a good choice in many situations.

[popeshawnpaul]

12 ga, 7 1/2 shot, light game loads with an improved cylinder choke. 

[piledup]

I was wondering why the no steel?

[Professor Chaos]

steel will ricochet whereas lead will deform and dispense most of its energy upon impact. 
Lead is also a lot easier on the teeth if you happen to bite into some shot.

[Bean Counter]

So the pinkos want us to use steel, not lead,(as they continue to pass other infringements) mainly because of potential poisoning to certain wildlife?

I am still at a loss to the use of steel or tungsten shot...