[svtruth]

with thanks in advance, what shot size for pheasant?

[308win]

Number 6 shot, 11/4 oz. In fact, if you are hunting over dogs (pointers or setters, not flushing dogs) you can get by with 71/2s if you watch your range. Pheasant can take a lickin and keep on truckin.

[eliphalet]

I always favored 5's but 4 to 6's should be OK.

[Kingcreek]

Wild birds and flushing dogs- can't do better than Fiochi "golden pheasant" nickel plated #5
pen-raised hunt club birds- any reasonable #6 will do and even #7.5 if over pointing dogs.

[Oldnamvet]

You have to decide which choke tube(s) you are going to use on what gun.

[308win]

Pheasant do not hold well for dogs, especially if they have been under hunting pressure. They will run on the dog and more than occasionally flush wild at an extended range. Pleasant look bigger and slower than they are because of their tail - don't shoot behind them. Pleasant will also tower when they flush; an easy shot is to get them at the peak of their rise as they are leveling off. They can also startle you on the flush since in addition to flushing wild, they often cackle when they flush, accompanied by a lot or thrashing in cover and beating of their wings; they will also lose feathers then flushing to add to the confusion - chaff if you will.;)

[Pigspitter]

120mm heat, just kidding usually #6-#5

[30-06 lover]

I prefer shooting lead #4 1 1/4 OZ 12 gauge with a modified choke.

[308win]

The only gun I have ever used on Pheasant is my Sportsman58, 20ga, improved cylinder with either high brass 6's or 71/2's. More than enough gun and choke if you mind your range and LEAD them enough. Plus it is light as a feather.:)

[koja48]

For pheasant, 5s are a good all-around choice, 6s in the early season, then 4s later. Now if I missed the topic entirely, and you really are "hunting virgins," if you're over 20 years of age . . . good luck . . .