When hunting snow geese, choosing the right shotgun shell size is crucial for success. Snow geese are large waterfowl that can be challenging targets. Using the proper ammo allows hunters to knock down more birds cleanly and efficiently. There are a few factors to consider when selecting shot size for snow goose hunting.
Snow Goose Size and Anatomy
Snow geese (Chen caerulescens) are among the largest geese species in North America. They average about 3-6 pounds in weight with wingspans reaching up to 5 feet across. Their bodies are thick and their feathers and down provide excellent insulation and protection.
Vital areas on a snow goose’s anatomy include the head, neck, and vital organs. Lead shot must penetrate these areas to make clean, ethical harvests. However, snow geese have thick layers of feathers and down to protect them from the cold weather they inhabit.
Head and Neck
A snow goose’s head and neck are small relative to their body size. They present a very small target area for hunters. The neck is only about 3-4 inches in diameter. Hitting this area requires accuracy and proper shot size.
Vital Organs
The vital organs are centered in the goose’s breast and back areas. Penetrating this area with sufficient shot will result in harvest. The breast is heavily feathered and protected.
Recommended Shot Sizes
When selecting shot size, hunters must balance sufficient energy for penetration with enough shot pellets to hit the vital areas. Recommended shot sizes for snow geese include:
#1 Shot
#1 lead shot provides a good balance of energy and pellet count. The large pellets retain energy downrange and can penetrate the snow goose’s feathers. Limits the maximum effective range compared to smaller sizes though.
BBB or T Shot
BBB steel or T tungsten shot are also excellent options. The extra energy helps penetration while maintaining enough pellets for spread over the vital areas. Heavier than lead shot as well.
#2 Shot
#2 lead or steel shot is preferred by some hunters. The smaller pellets result in more dense patterns. This can be an advantage when snow geese are in close range. Performs poorly at longer distances.
Shot Size Performance Factors
Several factors affect each shot size’s performance on snow geese, including:
Distance
The effective range of each size varies. Larger shot retains energy downrange better for penetration. Smaller shot loses energy quickly but allows for denser patterns up close.
Penetration
Larger shot is required to penetrate the feather layers and vital organs. Smaller shot may lack the energy, even at close ranges. Steel or tungsten shot provides more energy than lead.
Pellet Count
The number of pellets in a shell impacts overall pattern density. More pellets increase the odds of hitting vital areas but reduce individual pellet energy.
Shot Size | Recommended Range | Penetration Ability | Pellet Count |
---|---|---|---|
#1 Lead | 35-45 yards | Very Good | 225 pellets |
BBB Steel | 40-50 yards | Excellent | 175 pellets |
T Tungsten | 45-55 yards | Superb | 140 pellets |
#2 Lead | 30-40 yards | Moderate | 350 pellets |
Additional Shot Size Considerations
Choke
The choke constriction will alter pattern density. Tighter choke gives denser patterns that work well with smaller shot. Open chokes require larger shot.
Blind Setup
Field or water blind setup will impact ranges snow geese are encountered. Fixed blinds let you pattern birds further out so larger shot works better. Pass shooting requires smaller shot for close birds.
Steel vs Lead vs Tungsten
Lead shot is cheaper but banned in some areas. Steel has more energy downrange but fewer pellets typically. Tungsten is superb but expensive. Consider availability, legal restrictions, and pricing.
Recommended Loads for Snow Geese
Based on the above factors, here are some recommended shotgun loads for hunting snow geese:
12 Gauge:
- 1 1/4 oz #1 lead
- 1 1/4 oz BBB steel
- 1 1/8 oz T shot tungsten
10 Gauge:
- 1 3/8 oz #1 lead
- 1 5/8 oz #2 steel
- 1 1/2 oz T shot tungsten
20 Gauge:
- 1 oz #1 or #2 lead
- 1 oz #3 steel
- 7/8 oz #3 tungsten
Conclusion
For snow goose hunting, larger shot sizes in the #1 to BBB range provide the best performance. Heavier payloads in the 1 1/8 to 1 1/2 oz range allow sufficient shot density. Lead, steel, or tungsten all work but consider energy needs, availability, and legal regulations. Match the load to your expected hunting ranges and choke constrictions. With the right shells, you’ll bag more of those tasty white geese.