small gauge loads for ducks

[gadwall]

Some of the places I hunt are small ponds and creeks where the shots are close.  I recently discovered that there are steel loads available for the 28 gauge.  I have a 28 and think it would be fun to try as long as you chose your shots and kept them to 25 yds or so.  Has anyone tried shooting ducks with the 28??

Thanks,

Gadwall.

[Special T]

As a kid i pounded them with a 20g and lead... only shoot pigeons with it now...   It might work OK if you used Biz, heavy shot or the like.... I think you'll let a lot of birds pass, or cripple a ton with steel...

[h2ofowlr]

The smaller guns are a kick for shooting decoying birds.  Nothing wrong with that.  I do tend to stick with the 12 as those are the most cost effective steel shot shells.  They want an arm and leg for anything else.

[goosegetter79]

Never shot a 28 but have used a 20 quite a bit. Shot alot of ducks over the years and a few geese as well. Don't see a problem with using the 28 other than it may be difficult to find steel shells for it. My grandpa back in the day use to use a .410 for jump shooting ducks.

[gadwall]

Thanks for the input guys.  I know I would probably pass on lots of shots but would be fun to try it anyway.  Able Ammo has steel for the 28 at around $13/box of 25 in Federal and Winchester and Bismuth for ~$22/10 rounds.

Thanks,

Gadwall

[Wacenturion]

One of my favorite gauges, been using that gauge since I was in college in the early 70's....and yes have shot quite a few ducks over decoys with one of my 28's, an older Remington 11-48 auto bored skeet.

Over decoys and within 20 yards....you really have to try hard to miss...lol.  Pattern opens up and down they go.  Upland bird hunt primarily with a 28, especially years ago over setters....pure death on pheasants and quail....and chukars in the snow when they are down low and holding.

Fast pointing and quick shooting 28's make you a better shot in my opinion.  Too many people hunt with too large, too heavy and too tightly choked guns for both upland and waterfowl.  Behind dogs and over dekes or even jump shooting, you consistently kill more and when you eat them they will resemble what they originally were and not cube steak...lol.