THE FIELD KIT / AN ILLUSTRATED GUIDE
Start with shotgun fit, then match the field load to the actual bird. These nontoxic options help when a public area requires them.
Find your field notes01 / CHOOSE YOUR PURSUIT
Select the game to open its field notes.
Three pairings. A few useful tradeoffs.
02 / COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS
Start with shotgun fit, then match the field load to the actual bird. These nontoxic options help when a public area requires them.
FIELD CONTEXTFor upland game birds. Pheasant, grouse and quail do not call for one universal load.
Upland birds / OPTION 01
A familiar-gauge option for a hunter who already owns a well-fitting 12 gauge.
Select shot size and shell length for the bird and firearm; check area-specific nontoxic-shot rules.
Upland birds / OPTION 02
A useful alternative when your preferred field gun is a 20 gauge.
Compare the actual gun’s fit and the chosen load’s pattern, rather than assuming every 20 gauge behaves alike.
Upland birds / OPTION 03
An option for experienced upland hunters who prefer a 28-gauge gun.
This is a smaller-payload choice; select the bird-appropriate load and confirm its pattern.
03 / PUT IT IN PLACE
Use your state guide to find official seasons and regulations. These comparisons stay general; your exact unit, property and season determine what is permitted.
THE LAST PAGE / BEFORE YOU HEAD OUT
Match the firearm’s marked cartridge or gauge to the ammunition box and headstamp. For shotshells, also confirm shell length and the barrel/choke maker’s approval for the shot material.
Open the current state rules and the specific public-area hunt notice. Season, method, caliber, shot size and archery requirements can differ within one state.
Waterfowl and coot hunting requires federally approved nontoxic shot. California requires certified nonlead ammunition when taking wildlife with firearms. Other public areas can have additional restrictions.
Choose equipment you handle confidently and confirm its performance before hunting. Have a qualified archery professional match the bow, arrows and broadheads to you and the intended game.
THE NEXT CHAPTER