LOADS FOR 20 GAUGE SHOTGUN

[Chet43]

I trying to set up my 12 year old grand-daughter with a 3 inch loads for a 20gauge shotgun for both upland bird & turkey hunting. I have not bird hunted in a long, long time and know both the rules & loads have changed a lot. So what loads would anyone recommend as a starting point for both Upland Bird & Turkey hunting loads on both Public (Federal & State) and Private lands. I appreciate all the advice I get.

[wadu1]

Why 3", they can be thumpers for a 12-year-old. For pheasants I shoot 2 3/4" #5 Bismuth (hand loads), Grouse 7 1/2 lead and Turkeys 2 3/4 #6. I only use 3" for ducks.

[Bob33]

Remember that nontoxic shot is required for upland bird hunting on all pheasant release sites in the state. Many US Fish and Wildlife Service refuges also require the use of nontoxic shot now.

It is illegal to possess shot other than nontoxic shot when hunting for upland game birds (pheasant, quail, chukar, or gray partridge), mourning doves, or band-tailed pigeons in any area where the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife releases pheasants.

[hughjorgan]

For turkey buy some 2 3/4 #9s in TSS Salt creek ammunition or Verdict ammunition have worked well for me.

[Irish_hunter93]

I've used boss 3" 1-1/8oz #5s and they are amazing. They're expensive, im still working on a case of them from 3 years ago. But worth it. Its non toxic copper plated steel i believe.  Shot ducks, pheasant and quail. Let the quail get out there a ways before you shoot.   I browsed their website and I think at the moment they are doing all copper shot in that offering. Either way, great load for a 20 gauge, go check em out. Boss shotshells

[EnglishSetter]

Why 3", they can be thumpers for a 12-year-old. For pheasants I shoot 2 3/4" #5 Bismuth (hand loads), Grouse 7 1/2 lead and Turkeys 2 3/4 #6. I only use 3" for ducks.

Pretty much what he said. 

[Chet43]

Thank you all for the info, it was all good and appreciated