What size shotgun and shells/choke are recommended?
A. A 12 gauge shotgun is most effective, along with a modified choke or full choke. Throughout the first month of the season, the pheasants aren’t very flighty, so a modified choke with a 5 or 6 shot (preferably coated bb’s) works well. After a month of being shot at, the pheasants flush quicker and often further away, so a full choke and a 2-4 shot will provide more suitable range. 16 and 20 gauge shotguns also do a good job with a 3″, 4 shot shell. Stephan’s load of choice is Fiocchi’s 12 gauge GOLDEN PHEASANT GPX – 2 ¾” length, max dram equiv., 39 grams shot, 1 3/8 oz shot, 1485 fps, 4-5 or 6 shot size with nickel-plated bb’s. Fiocchi’s use of hard, nickel plated shot, results in enhanced penetration at the longest ranges, tighter patterns (due to less shot deformation), and clean kills.
