Deer hunting is a cherished tradition in Illinois, with over 150,000 deer harvested in the 2018-2019 season. For many hunters, slug guns are the weapon of choice. In this blog, we'll explore the technical aspects of slug guns and provide essential insights for those looking to enhance their deer hunting experience.
1. Understanding Slugs:
Slugs are a popular choice for deer hunting, with the most common option being a Sabot. It's important to note that Sabot slugs must be shot in a rifled slug barrel, as shooting them in a smooth bore can be extremely dangerous. Foster slugs, on the other hand, are designed for smooth bore barrels and are ideal for close-range shooting.
2. Optics and Recoil Reduction:
When using Sabot slugs, it's essential to use optics to properly utilize their potential. Additionally, recoil reduction is an important consideration, especially for female shooters. Women have a different chest space than men, and adjusting the pitch angle and incorporating recoil reduction measures can significantly enhance accuracy and comfort.
3. Foster Slugs and Deer Hunting:
Foster slugs are designed to mimic the flight characteristics of a shuttlecock, and they do not actually spin. They work best with improved-cylinder chokes and are ideal for close-range shooting. While they can travel up to half a mile in perfect conditions, the accuracy limit for most hunters is around 100-150 yards.
4. Deer Hunting Insights:
When deer hunting, it's important to consider the behavior of the deer. Scopes and red dots can significantly enhance your sight picture and hunting time, and a new trend forming is the use of bolt-action slug guns, which offer the benefits of a bolt-action rifle. It's crucial to sight in your firearm at the distance you will realistically shoot at and to practice how you will hunt, whether on the ground, in a stand, or off-hand.
In conclusion, mastering the art of deer hunting with slug guns requires a deep understanding of their technical aspects and flight characteristics. By following these essential insights, hunters can significantly enhance their accuracy, comfort, and overall hunting experience. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a novice shooter, these technical insights can help you become a more informed and effective deer hunter.
