Gun suggestions for predators-really

[mominoz]

"Alright I am a "mature" lady. Hubby travels sometimes , Say I hear a commotion in the aviary. (we live in a rural and forested area). (I used to be on a rifle team as a kid and dad used to hunt) Anyhow we have several rifles (mostly inherited) , 22, 410, shotgun, deer rifles, hubby has a 9 mm pistol. and I am wondering the best gun for predators.For me to handle (I am average size and fairly strong for my age, which I won't tell)

Say for coons? coyotes?---then there are the local ratttleankes and copperheads-- I won't mention bobcats and bear could come down- but there is an perimeter fence and electric fences.
Pistol suggestions possibly too. (I also trailride)--Mainly pistols seem to be to big in the grip for me comfortably.I have wide square hands, but short fingers.

 

[Big C]

We use a 410 or 12 gauge with 6 or 00 shot loads.

 

[citrusdreams]

I like a .22 because it's light, doesn't make a lot of noise and has no kickback. I really don't like using those big rifles with big noise and a big kickback. Too macho for me

 

[Ugly Cowboy]

I usually use a 22 for coons and varmints of the like.

 

[Trenary Duck Farm]

We use a 22 magnum, the poacher's gun of choice in Michigan.

 

[saddina]

When I asked the same question last week, it was suggested a .22 handgun and to go to the gun shop to be sure my tiny hands could work it.

 

[bryan8]

Well it depends on the distance and how well you can shoot it.

For under 35yrds Id go with a shotgun with some turkey loads, or #4 buckshot. You will have to pattern your loads to see what works best.

For under 50yrds, .22lrs will work for coons with headshots, but too under powdered for coyotes.

Anything over 40yrds and I would be grabing the deer rifle. a 30/06 makes quick work of yotes and coons.

~Bryan

Also

A .410 with #9's is a great snake gun out to about 10yrds

 

[FaithAnn]

For raccoons and possums and such, we use a .22. For things like coyotes, I have a 243 which I love. I am a 32 year old woman, small framed, and I have shot this gun since I was 4 years old - it is also my deer hunting rifle.

 

[Guinea Goonie]

I have a .22 walther. The butt is pretty small and it is easy to shoot and know if the safety is on or off.

I bought it with a "laser" sight and it works GREAT on coons and possums.

I do have a 20 guage as a backup just in case. Sometimes those darn possums will suck air with 20 rounds of .22 in them.

 

[Dread Pirate Roberts]

Sometimes, I roll strapped with a Daisy.