Ammo for Waterfowl Hunting
Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy are going to provide some ammo recommendations for waterfowl hunting. In addition to providing ammo recommendations, we are also going to cover some factors one should consider when selecting ammunition for this role. Without further ado, let’s go over ammunition to take into the field for waterfowl hunting.
What is Waterfowl?
The term “waterfowl” refers to a wide range of birds. Also referred to as Anseriformes, this classification applies to over 180 different species of waterfowl. These types of bird are aquatic in nature and feature traits such as webbed feet which aid their mobility in the water. Game of this type can typically be found and hunted in crop fields, near large bodies of water such lakes, rivers, and ponds, in wetlands, and in coastal areas. Typically, these types of birds are hunted during seasons and in areas which coincide with their migratory routes. As far as types of birds go, most waterfowl birds are going to be some species of duck or geese. Commonly hunted waterfowl include Canadian geese, snow geese, northern pintail, mallards, bufflehead, and green-winged teal.
What Gauges/Calibers are Viable for Hunting Waterfowl?
Waterfowl is best dispatched with 12 gauge or 20 gauge loadings. These gauges are readily available in loadings well-suited for waterfowl hunting. Additionally, these gauges can be found in 3” and 3.5” loadings which feature increased payloads and charges, making them optimal for dispatching waterfowl. Of course, shooters will find that these two shotgun gauges are well-supported by the firearms industry as many options are available in either gauge. Hunters will have a wide range of pump action, semi-automatic, and double barrel shotgun offerings to consider for use in the field.
How Important is Velocity?
The velocity of a loading is incredibly important when hunting waterfowl. A shotshell’s velocity is directly related to its potential performance downrange and its effect on target. Higher velocities mean that pellets will travel at higher speeds and impact with authority, two desirable traits when hunting. Fast moving shot gets to its target quicker, minimizing the amount of leading and holding one may have to do at certain ranges. Of course, fast projectiles will also produce a higher level of damage on target. This allows for cleaner and more efficient kills.
How Important is Shot Size?
Shot size is another important factor to consider when hunting waterfowl. Simply put, the higher the shot size value, the larger the shot. Larger shot hits harder than smaller shot, allowing for clean and ethical kills. The ability to deliver efficient lethal energy with a loading is but one desirable trait when selecting a loading for waterfowl hunting. One should also try to find a loading that will retain its ability to impart energy at realistic, extended distances. This can be important when trying to shoot a bird flying away from the shooter as the distance between the target and shooter can increase dramatically. Some loadings will better retain energy at distances than others. For example, #3 shot ammo will generally hold its energy at distances better than #4 shot will.
Waterfowl Ammo Recommendations
Here is a list of loadings that we recommend for waterfowl hunting. Of course, there are many other viable loadings for this use case and this is by no means an exhaustive list.
- Nobel Sport – Steel Waterfowl – 12 Gauge – #2 Shot -3” – 1 ¼ oz. – 1450 FPS
- Nobel Sport – Steel Waterfowl – 12 Gauge – #BB Shot – 3” – 1 ¼ oz. – 1450 FPS
We recommend these loadings for a number of reasons. Above all, each loading is capable of getting the job done and humanely dispatching waterfowl. Additionally, each of these loadings will run in a variety of shotgun types. This is to say that they will function in pump action, double barrel, and semi-automatic shotguns. Reliability is an important factor as you do not want to experience any hang-ups during your hunt. We also selected a sampling of 12 gauge and 20 gauge loadings specifically due to the popularity of these gauges and their viability in this use case. As mentioned above, larger 3” and 3.5” shells are available make these gauges even more viable for this use case.
The Importance of Lead-Free Ammunition for Hunting Waterfowl
Lead-free ammunition is often an important tool for hunters as some types of game and regions require the use of non-lead ammunition. This is certainly the case for hunting waterfowl federal regulations are in place barring the use of lead ammunition when pursuing this type of game. Notably, restrictions on hunting waterfowl with lead ammunition have been in place since 1991. Lead ammunition was banned due to studies showing that deposits of lead shot in waterfowl habitats was leading to lead poisoning. Lead shot would often sit at the bottom of bodies of water, often being ingested by waterfowl.
How Much Ammo Do You Need?
Generally speaking, the amount of ammo needed is ultimately dependent upon the type of hunting you are doing. Stationary hunting and mobile hunting are different types of hunting with different considerations and realities. Waterfowl hunting is typically done from a fixed position like a blind, meaning hunters of this type are not walking around and stalking game. This means that they can keep a healthy stock on hand where they are positioned, allowing for a wider range of ammo and gear to be employed. Of course, one should also consider the regulations and limits on species, gender, and game when hunting. Legally and practically speaking, one should only need enough ammunition to ensure they meet their legal limit. Ultimately, one should purchase enough ammunition to practice with their hunting load and have enough to practically complete their hunt.
Conclusion
All in all, we hope that these ammo recommendations for waterfowl hunting and other information are helpful. These offerings and the accompanying information should point prospective hunters in the right direction for an optimal and ethical hunt. Beyond these loadings, we here at True Shot Ammo carry a wide range of shotgun ammunition suitable for many potential use cases. In addition to shotgun ammo, we also carry offer a wide range of ammo for sale in popular rifle, pistol, and rimfire calibers. As always, happy shooting.
Need bulk ammo? At True Shot Ammo, we have a wide variety of handgun ammo and rifle ammo available to purchase. Please visit our website trueshotammo.com, call us at (888) 736-6587, or you can email us at [email protected] for more ammo options.
