With a variety of rifle calibers & shotguns to choose from for every type of game, you may question which gun is right to bring along for your next hunt. You may ask fellow hunters and quickly come to realize that everyone has their own preferences. While the best gun to hunt with truly comes down to personal opinion, the experts at NEMO Arms have created a guide that will help you determine the best caliber rifles and shotgun gauges for hunting any species of small and big game.
Rifle Hunting Game Chart
If you live in a flat area, where you will likely be taking long distance shots, which means you will need a rifle for hunting. It should be noted that there are some places where it’s illegal to hunt with a rifle, in which you may want to opt for a shotgun with slugs instead.
Short & Medium Range
QUARRY | Recommended Caliber(s) |
---|---|
Deer | .243 Win, 30-30, .300 Savage |
Varmints | .17 HMR, .22 Hornet |
Small Game | .22 LR, .22 WMR |
Short & Medium Range
QUARRY | Recommended Caliber(s) |
---|---|
Deer, Sheep, Goats | .25.06 Rem, .270 Win, .308 Win, 30-06, 7mm .300 Win Mag, 6.5 Creedmoor |
Predators | .223 Rem, .22-250 Rem, .220 Swift, .243 Win |
Elk, Stag, Plains Game | .270 Win, .308 Win, .30-06. 7mm, .300 Win Mag |
Black Bear | .30-30 and up, .444 Marlin, .45-70 Govt |
Shotgun Hunting Game Chart
Shotguns are some of the most versatile weapons. By simply switching up your shot shells, you can hunt birds and big game with the exact same weapon.
Game | Gauge |
---|---|
Bear | 12 |
Deer | 12, 16 |
Dove, Partridge, Grouse | 12, 16, 20 |
Duck, Goose | 10, 12, 16 |
Pheasant | 12, 16 |
Quail, Snipe, Woodcock | 20, 28 |
Rabbit, Squirrel | 16, 20, 28, .410 |
Turkey | 10, 12, 16 |
Now that you know which guns are appropriate for hunting various species, it’s time to get out in the field and determine what your unique preferences are. We offer a variety of firearms, ammunition, as well as cleaning kits to get you ready for the season. To browse our selection of premium firearms and gear, visit our website at www.nemoarms.com.