Hunting Sense

It’s been awhile since I did a new piece for the So You Want to Coon Hunt series, but after yesterdays post, you had to see it coming for today. We’ll look at another inquiry I’ve seen typed in as a search: Good guns for coon hunting?

The over-riding factor of this question would ultimately be what the regulations are for the type of gun you’re allowed to use wherever you’re located. I believe, though, that most states that allow firearms allow the use of .22 calibre weapons, although I would have to check my facts on that. I know that my home state of Oklahoma allowed them, and that is the calibre we used when we did carry guns. Shotguns are another that should be commonly allowed as well.

Taking all of the above into consideration, the other factor that has to be looked at is that when you use a gun, it is normally just to get the coon out of the tree and down to where the dogs can get it. With a shotgun, you’re more likely to accomplish this without killing the coon, although, properly placed, a round from a .22 rifle can do it as well. So then it boils down to which is your preference.

I know when we did carry a gun with us, we wanted one that was small and light so we wouldn’t get worn out packing it all night and wouldn’t have to fight getting it through thickets and such. In my opinion, and my preference, it would then come down to maybe four certain types of guns.

The first, simply because it’s what we always used, would be a Ruger 10-22. They are small and easy to carry through varying terrain and light enough to keep from wearing you out. The second one would be a single shot .410 shotgun. Again, for the sames reasons as with the above choice. The other two would be alternatives to my first two choices.

A single shot .20 guage shotgun. They are still fairly light, although I don’t like the length of them compared to the above two. The last one, which I never carried, but was along with someone who did, is the .22 calibre rifle Daisy (yes, the people who make air rifles) put out for awhile. It was as light and compact as an air rifle and seemed to have good accuracy.

No matter which type you choose, make sure to stay away from hitting the head of the coon. Best scenario is to aim so that the bullet or pellets either hit or pepper the rear end of it, causing it to jump from the tree. Of course, if you don’t want the dogs to get hold of it because of wanting to keep the pelt in good condition, then forget that and aim for a kill shot.

Hope this is at least somewhat helpful in helping you settle on a gun for coon hunting.

Till next time.

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