Hunting for Red Squirrels: Shotgun vs. Rifle

Red Squirrel Hunting: Shotgun vs. Rifle

Red squirrels are fast, noisy, and constantly on the move—making them an excellent challenge for small-game hunters. Choosing between a shotgun and a rifle shapes everything from your shot opportunities to how you navigate the woods. Whether you’re hunting for a day’s adventure or preparing for a guided small-game trip you found on Find A Hunt, this guide breaks down the strengths and limitations of each firearm so you can make the right call.

Understanding Red Squirrel Behavior

Before comparing firearms, it helps to know what you’re up against.

What Makes Red Squirrels Unique

• Fast and erratic: Rarely sit still for long.

• Noisy: Chatter, bark, and tail-flick when alarmed.

• Territorial: Often return to the same trees or feeding spots.

• High-climbers: Expect shots at varying elevations.

These traits influence your firearm choice more than anything else.

Shotguns for Red Squirrel Hunting

Shotguns are the traditional small-game tool for moving targets in thick cover.

Advantages of Using a Shotgun

• Easier to hit moving squirrels: Multiple pellets increase the margin of error.

• Excellent in dense timber: Fast pointing, quick follow-ups.

• Reduced risk of over-penetration: Safer when shooting upward around treetops.

• Ideal for close-range encounters: Great for hunters who want fast action.

Recommended Shotgun Setups

• Gauge: 20 gauge or .410 bore for lighter recoil.

• Choke: Improved Cylinder or Modified for balanced spread.

• Load: #6 or #7.5 shot for clean kills without excessive meat damage.

Best Situations for a Shotgun

• Hunting thick spruce, pine, or mixed hardwoods.

• When squirrels are highly active and seldom stop moving.

• When hunting with new shooters who benefit from increased forgiveness.

Rifles for Red Squirrel Hunting

Rifles offer unmatched precision—but require patience and steady shooting.

Advantages of Using a Rifle

• Pinpoint accuracy: Ideal for headshots or minimizing meat loss.

• Longer effective range: More reliable beyond 25–30 yards.

• Quiet options: .22 LR subsonic ammo reduces noise and spooks fewer animals.

• Better for stationary squirrels: Perfect when they pause to feed or bark.

Recommended Rifle Setups

• Caliber: .22 LR is the gold standard for small game.

• Optics: 2–7x or 3–9x scope for precise tree-limb shots.

• Ammunition: Standard-velocity or subsonic hollow points for accuracy and controlled expansion.

Best Situations for a Rifle

• Open woods or mixed terrain with clear shot lanes.

• When squirrels hold still long enough for careful aiming.

• Hunters focused on clean, minimal-damage harvests.

Shotgun vs. Rifle: Side-by-Side Comparison

Choosing the Right Tool for Your Hunt

Pick a Shotgun If…

• You’re hunting fast-moving squirrels in dense cover.

• You want an easy-handling gun for spontaneous shots.

• You’re hunting with kids or beginners.

Pick a Rifle If…

• You prefer precision and minimal meat loss.

• You hunt more open or semi-open woods.

• You enjoy a slower, more patient style of small-game hunting.

Many seasoned hunters carry both—starting with a .22 in open terrain and switching to a shotgun in tight spruce thickets.

Field Tips for Red Squirrel Success

• Move slowly and listen: Red squirrels often reveal themselves with chatter.

• Watch feeding areas: Pine cones, mushrooms, and cached food indicate activity.

• Use natural rest positions: Trees, stumps, and shooting sticks stabilize rifle shots.

• Aim for ethical kill zones: Head or upper-shoulder for rifles; centered body shots with shotguns.

• Hunt early and late: Squirrels are most active around dawn and mid-afternoon.

Why Book Small-Game Hunts Through Find A Hunt

If you want a guided experience—especially in regions with abundant squirrels—booking through a trusted marketplace gives you:

• Verified and reputable outfitters

• Local knowledge of the best habitat and timber stands

• Opportunities to combine squirrel hunting with grouse, rabbits, or predators

• Clear expectations, gear lists, and hunt details

• An easier way to compare trips and find one tailored to your style

Plan your next small-game adventure with confidence.

FAQ: Shotgun vs. Rifle for Red Squirrels

Which is better for beginners?
A shotgun—its wider pattern makes hitting moving squirrels easier.

Can you hunt squirrels ethically with a shotgun?
Absolutely. Light shot and proper range ensure clean kills.

Is a .22 LR enough for red squirrels?
Yes. It's the most popular and effective small-game caliber.

What’s the best choke for squirrel hunting?
Improved Cylinder or Modified, depending on terrain density.

Do squirrels spook easily from gunshots?
Some do, but many will return within minutes—especially in high-density areas.

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