Game hunting with shotguns

[BigT]

This is out of my lane hence the question.

Something that cam up the other day in conversation causes the question. Is anyone hear hunting game with shotgun slugs? I know it is popular , and even required, in some parts of the US. But are guys here doing it? If not why not?

Thanks

[BeesBreet]

Big T, I shoot bushpig with a shotgun and slugs... nothing else though.

[BigT]

Thanks dude. Why not though? Not questioning just trying to learn.

[LoopSoosStroop]

1. Practical range is limited. Fine for bushveld I suppose. Problem comes when you have to take longer follow up shots on wounded game.

2. Most shotguns do not have very useful sighting systems. If you pop a x4 scope on and zero for 70 yards, could work.

[pdh]

Range is a limiting factor

As with pistol choice for SD, there are far superior alternatives

[Friki]

It has to do with conservation legislation. According to the legislation in most provinces you are not allowed to hunt game with a shotgun without a permit. The same legislation also forbids hunting with semi-autos, .22's and air rifles without a permit. In certain circumstances this does not apply, for example when you are the owner of the property or when hunting pests. I don't know how one would obtain such a permit, but that might explain your question a bit.

I know that people use shotgun to hunt small antelope (like duiker), bushbuck, bushpig (like Beesbreet said). Some PH's also use pump action shotguns to follow up on wounded leopard. Ammunition varies from using slugs to buck-shot. Mostly used on driven hunts. I know it used to be quite popular in KZN and the Eastern Cape.

[CorditeCrazy]

I shot an impala with a slug about 5 years ago. Great fun as you work hard to get close, but that was a once off and now my hunting is with a bolt gun. I would do it again though.

[GameFarmer]

Works well for follow-up on wounded leopard. Couple PH's that I know that use this method. Personally I'll take a double rifle before the shotgun with slug. But then I've never been in the thick after a wounded leopard, so I trust the PH's experience on this.

Don't know anyone else that use it for hunting. Doubles and lever guns a better option for close range hunting.

[Peter Wells]

Q is - is a shotgun firing a slug a shotgun or just a smooth bore 'rifle'?

[GameFarmer]

Q is - is a shotgun firing a slug a shotgun or just a smooth bore 'rifle'?

Good question, but rather look at the propulsion. A slug from a shotgun shell will have way less energy than a similar 'slug' from a copper cartridge gun. The bigger caliber of the slug will have less impact and because of, less penetration.

Maybe a good man and cat stopper. Not so good on heavier and thicker skinned animals.

PS: You know that you can turn a birdshot cartridge into a slug? Only for emergencies of course.