what size shells

[reloadxx]

ok im the type bigger shells the better so what size shells do you all use waterfowl hunting 3in or 3.5in shells? i have always used 3.5 shells but does it really help that much than 3in shells

 

[tn_duckman]

I shoot 3in shells most of the time. Ive never had any problem taking down a duck or goose with them.

 

[Kevin]

Most of the time i use 3.5's. Its like a mental block for me. I used a 10 ga for 4 years too, before my cousin got back into hunting and was ready for it back. I just can't bring myself to shoot 3's. I feel like im leaving some punch in the bag.

Im also 6'4 250, and think bigger is always better. I couldnt bring myself to shoot less than 70 lbs either. Just my preference.

I think its just because i am so big, the only vehicles i have ever owned have been full sized as well.

 

[Southern Sportsman]

I cant remember the last box of 3.5" duck shells i bought. Even if they were the same price I would shoot 3". I just never have seen any apreciable advantage to a 3.5" I ususally even buy some 2 3/4" shells to shoot in the early season when we're killing fair numbers of teal and gray ducks. You can only kill them so dead.

 

[Chaneylake]

the average to below average shooter can not handle the recoil on a 3.5 inch shell on second or third shot, if head is not down and shooter is not maintaining sight picture of shot through all 3 shots if needed, then recoil is to great

 

[TheLBLman]

I'd add that there have probably been more ducks killed with 2 3/4" shells than 3" or 3 1/2". For over half a century, the "standard" duck load was a 1 1/4" load of lead #6's. Like Chaneylake points out, greater recoil gives you a disadvantage on the 2nd and 3rd shots ---- something to think about.

 

[thetoolman]

Been looking at new shotguns and honestly the one I like the best is a 3inch gun. Shoots 2 3/4 and 3's, buddy of mine once told me the only reason he has a gun that will shoot 3 1/2 is for when they are sold out of 3 inch.

 

[ClubHead]

Back when geese came every year we all had 10 guages.When they showed up every other year or so we had 3 1/2s.Now we all shoot 3 inch.Peace out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Uncle Jesse]

I shot 3.5's for several years, even for early season I currently use 3" only now... in 20 gauge. I sold all my auto loading 12 gauge guns and got a cheap pump just in case I find the need to use a 12 again.