· top picks · 8 min read
The Best 20 Gauge Birdshot for Effective and Humane Hunting
Our 20 gauge birdshot roundup examines top-loading options, comparing their performance, reliability, and value to help you choose the right ammo for your hunting needs.
Choosing the right birdshot can make or break your hunting or shooting experience. Our comprehensive guide examines the performance, pattern spread, and value of 20 gauge birdshot, helping you select the perfect load for your needs.
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Reviews
20 AWG Solid Core Wire Kit
The Fermerry solid core wire kit makes it easy to build and prototype circuits, with each of the six colors measuring a useful 25 feet. The 20-gauge wire handles well, whether you’re stripping it, crimping terminals, or welding connections. It’s built to last, with good abrasion resistance and flexibility even when dealing with harsh chemicals like oil and solvents.
ReadyGOLF Birdie Hunting 20 Gauge Shell Marker
This birdie hunting ball marker brings a bit of old-school style to the golf course, crafted from genuine 20-gauge shotgun shells and measuring just over an inch in diameter. Each one-of-a-kind marker comes with a free magnetic hat clip, adding both fun and functionality to your golfing look without breaking the bank.
Fencer Wire 3 ft. x 150 ft. 20-Gauge Poultry Netting
This wire netting brings together durable 20-gauge steel with a generous 2-inch hexagonal mesh design. The galvanized finish ensures it’ll stand up to outdoor use, while the horizontal weaving pattern gives your projects extra stability.
20-Gauge Fencer Wire Poultry Netting
When it comes to keeping feathered friends contained, this galvanized steel wire proves itself time and again. With a sturdy 20-gauge construction and generous 150-foot roll, it’s perfect for both new chicken keepers and experienced hobby farmers. The 2-inch hexagonal mesh may look simple, but its strength holds up against determined ducks and ambitious hens alike.
Pro-Shot Long Range 17.75” 20 Gauge Birdshot Target Diamond
Made from peel-and-stick material printed in the USA, these diamond-shaped targets are perfect for sighting in your shotgun. The five targets measure a generous 17.75 inches across, giving you plenty of space to practice at longer ranges. Each target features 20-gauge birdshot patterns, making them ideal for both clay target practice and realistic shooting drills.
Lyric 20-lb Delite Wild Bird Food
No-waste bird food featuring shelled peanuts, sunflower kernels, pecans, and pistachios that attracts a variety of wild birds including woodpeckers, finches, and chickadees. The pre-hulled seeds prevent mess and weed growth below feeders, while providing high-protein nutrition for feathered visitors.
BNTECHGO 20 AWG Enameled Copper Wire
Inside a natural-colored spool, 80 feet of 20AWG magnet wire wraps up tight and true, each strand precision-drawn to NEMA MW-35-C specs. The varnished copper core is protected by a dual-insulation layer of modified Polyester and Polyamideimide, letting this wire dance through coils without fear of short-circuits. When the enamel-coated copper meets 155°C heat, it knows it’s just getting started in its musical or electromagnet adventure.
Neon Orange Shooting Targets
Durable 18 by 12-inch targets make shooting practice more visible with their neon yellow and red designs – perfect for improving your aim at both short and long ranges. The heavy-duty paper is easy to set up, and each pack includes an expert e-book to help you develop professional shooting skills.
BNTECHGO 20 Gauge Red and Black Stranded Tinned Copper Wire Spools
This 20-gauge wire is a dream for hobbyists, with its super flexible silicone coating that bends like nothing else out there. The tinned copper core makes it a breeze to solder, and you get a huge 50 feet for your money – split between red and black cables that you can use for all sorts of projects. The wire handles voltage like a pro while keeping your connections nice and tight.
BNTECHGO 20 Gauge Silicone Wire Kit
Imagine having access to 10 feet of versatile wire in every primary color of the rainbow, all bundled into a single, highly efficient kit. Each strand is tinned copper, ensuring durability and easy soldering, while the flexible silicone insulation handles everything from freezing cold to scorching heat without missing a beat. Whether you’re working on a small DIY project or designing a complex electronics system, these ULtra-flexible silicone wires have got you covered, from the tiniest 30 AWG to the robust 8 AWG.
Jebs Invector Plus 20ga Duck Choke Tube
These duck-specific choke tubes deliver exceptional pattern consistency and knockdown power, thanks to the company’s patented High-Voltage Series design. The. 580 size provides similar performance to a modified choke, with the added benefit of a shorter shot-stream for improved hit probability at longer ranges. Whether you’re shooting steel, lead, or bismuth loads, these tubes handle them all with ease.
Daisy P51 Slingshot Kit
The Daisy P51 8” Slingshot combines precision shooting with durable construction. Its adjustable wrist support and extra-wide forks provide steady aim, while the replaceable bands and included ammunition make it a practical choice for both beginners and experienced shooters. Whether you’re practicing at the range or having fun with friends, this slingshot delivers reliable performance with its proven accuracy and solid build quality.
Buyer’s Guide
20 gauge birdshot refers to a specific size of shotgun ammunition commonly used for bird hunting. Understanding the characteristics and proper use of this ammunition is crucial for successful and legal hunting.
Shot Size and Distribution
Each pellet in a 20 gauge shot shell contains 20 gauge birdshot. The distribution pattern of these pellets creates the shot pattern when fired. Factors affecting pattern density include barrel length, choke type, and distance to the target. Understanding pattern dynamics helps hunters achieve consistent shot placement.
Performance and Versatility
20 gauge birdshot performs well on small to medium game birds, offering a balance of terminal energy and shot cluster size. Its versatility makes it suitable for various hunting scenarios, from upland game hunting to waterfowl retrieval. Proper ammunition selection depends on the specific hunting situation and target species.
Legal Considerations and Regulations
When using 20 gauge birdshot, hunters must adhere to local hunting regulations regarding shot size and pattern density. Many states and countries have specific requirements for hunting birds, including restrictions on the caliber and type of ammunition. Familiarizing oneself with these regulations ensures compliance and responsible hunting practices.
Shooting Considerations
Effective 20 gauge birdshot shooting requires consideration of recoil management and pattern control. Modern shotguns offer various choke options to optimize shot patterns for different distances and hunting situations. Practice with your specific firearm to develop accurate shooting fundamentals.
FAQ
What is 20 gauge birdshot?
20 gauge birdshot is a type of shotgun ammunition specifically designed for hunting birds. The term “20 gauge” refers to the caliber of the shell, indicating it’s a smaller-bore round compared to other options like 12-gauge or 28-gauge.
Birdshot consists of small metal pellets that scatter when fired from a shotgun. These pellets are typically between 4 and 9 millimeters in diameter, with smaller sizes used for larger birds and larger sizes for smaller birds.
What types of birds can be hunted with 20 gauge birdshot?
The 20 gauge is suitable for hunting a wide variety of bird species, including waterfowl, upland game birds, and small birds. Commonly targeted species include ducks, geese, pheasants, quail, and grouse.
While it’s versatile, keep in mind that larger birds requiring higher energy levels may benefit from alternative ammunition options like 12-gauge or specialty loads.
How effective is 20 gauge birdshot at different ranges?
20 gauge birdshot performs effectively within typical hunting ranges of 30-60 yards. At closer distances, the pattern spreads more evenly, increasing hit probability. Beyond 60 yards, dispersion increases, making it less reliable for target acquisition.
For best results, practice under various shooting conditions to develop appropriate shot patterns and understand the limitations of 20 gauge birdshot at different ranges.
What safety considerations are important when using 20 gauge birdshot?
Always wear protective eyewear when shooting, as birdshot pellets can travel at high velocities. Keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction at all times, and never shoot directly at people or vehicles.
Avoid shooting in restricted areas or near populated zones. Familiarize yourself with local hunting regulations regarding shotshell capacity and choke tubes.
How should 20 gauge birdshot loads be maintained?
Store loaded ammunition in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check expiration dates on packages, as performance may degrade over time. Follow manufacturer recommendations for optimal performance.
Before each use, inspect shells for any signs of damage or degradation. Properly dispose of expended shells in a responsible manner, following local regulations.
What are the environmental impacts of 20 gauge birdshot?
The metal components of 20 gauge birdshot can pose environmental risks, particularly if lost in wetlands or other sensitive areas. Consider alternatives like steel or tungsten shot for situations where environmental impact is a concern.
When using traditional lead shot, practice responsible reloading and field care to minimize waste. Properly clean and maintain firearms to prevent accidental discharge and pellet loss.
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