Best Gauges for Hunting Surf Scoter: Comparisons & Picks
Tough sea ducks, salt spray, and long retrieves—choose the right gauge for clean, ethical kills.
Looking for the best surf scoter hunting gauges? Below we compare proven shotgun gauges for sea-duck hunting and explain where each shines. We assume non-toxic shot (steel, bismuth, or TSS) and real open-water conditions. Always practice safe gun handling, pattern your gun with your chosen load, and check local regulations on non-toxic shot, shell length, and seasons before you hunt.
Gauge Comparisons
| Feature | 12 gauge | 12 gauge (3.5″) | 20 gauge | 10 gauge | 28 gauge (TSS) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recoil How much kick you can expect when firing. |
Moderate | High | Low–Moderate | Very High | Low |
| Effective Range The distance at which the gauge/load remains accurate and lethal. |
40–50 yards (steel/bismuth) | 50–55 yards (heavy payloads) | 35–45 yards (quality non-toxic) | 50–60 yards (specialty setups) | 35–40 yards (TSS), closer with bismuth |
| Bullet Weight Range The range of payload weights typically available. |
1 1/8–1 1/2 oz | 1 3/8–2 1/4 oz | 7/8–1 1/4 oz | 1 5/8–2 1/2 oz | 3/4–1 oz |
| Versatility How well the gauge performs for other game besides sea ducks. |
High (all waterfowl, upland) | Medium (waterfowl, turkey) | High (ducks, upland, youth) | Medium (goose/sea-duck specialty) | Medium (teal/wood duck with TSS; upland) |
| Ammo Availability How easy it is to find suitable ammo. |
Very High | High | High | Low–Medium | Medium (seasonal) |
12 Gauge
The all-around choice for surf scoter. Ample payload, wide choke/load options, and forgiving patterns in wind and spray.
Pros
- Excellent balance of pattern density and recoil
- Huge variety of non-toxic loads (steel, bismuth, TSS)
- Performs well from layout boats and shore blinds
Cons
- Heavier guns than sub-gauges for long carries
- Can still be snappy with 1 1/2 oz or fast steel
- Salt exposure is tough—clean promptly
Interesting Fact: With properly matched chokes, many 12-gauge bismuth #3–#1 loads pattern beautifully at 40–50 yards—ideal for tough sea ducks.
Consider this Gauge If…
You want the most flexible sea-duck setup and easy ammo sourcing nationwide.
12 Gauge (3.5″)
Adds payload for dense patterns and extended reach—useful when birds swing wide or winds push shots longer.
Pros
- Heavier charge weights for bigger pellets (#2–BB)
- Good for late-season birds and rough weather
- Still fits standard 12-gauge platforms
Cons
- Noticeably more recoil—train and pattern first
- Shells cost more and can be finicky by brand
- Requires a 3.5″-chambered shotgun
Interesting Fact: Many hunters find 3″ 12-gauge loads pattern more consistently than some 3.5″ loads—always pattern both before season.
Consider this Gauge If…
You regularly face longer shots or want extra pellet count for penetrating dense feathers.
20 Gauge
Light recoiling but capable with modern non-toxic loads. Best when you can finish birds over the decoys.
Pros
- Lighter guns and softer recoil—great control
- Quality bismuth/TSS makes it surprisingly effective
- Versatile for upland or marsh hunts too
Cons
- Narrower margin for error at 40+ yards
- Steel payloads top out quickly
- Pick loads carefully for sea-duck toughness
Interesting Fact: Bismuth #3–#2 in a 20-gauge can mirror classic 12-gauge lead performance from decades past—without the toxicity.
Consider this Gauge If…
You prioritize fast handling and reduced recoil, and you decoy birds inside 40 yards.
10 Gauge
The big-iron option for layout rigs, open swells, and late-season birds when you need dense patterns with larger pellets.
Pros
- Massive payloads for #2–T shot
- Delivers dense patterns at extended ranges
- Soaks up wind and distance better than sub-gauges
Cons
- Very heavy guns and stout recoil
- Ammunition cost and availability
- Overkill for close decoy work
Interesting Fact: The 10-gauge’s larger bore can throw even big steel shot with less deformation, helping pattern quality.
Consider this Gauge If…
You hunt big water often, expect 45–55-yard opportunities, and don’t mind weight or recoil.
28 Gauge (with TSS/Bismuth)
A niche but capable choice using premium non-toxic shot. Keep shots honest and pattern carefully.
Pros
- Very mild recoil and fast mounts
- TSS provides excellent penetration for size
- Great crossover for light upland guns
Cons
- Limited payload; pellet count matters
- Premium shells can be pricey/seasonal
- Not ideal in heavy wind or long swells
Interesting Fact: TSS pellets are so dense that smaller shot sizes can pattern tightly while still penetrating sea-duck feathers.
Consider this Gauge If…
You’re disciplined about shot angles and distances and want a light, sweet-shooting setup.
Bottom Line
For most surf scoter hunters, a 12-gauge with well-patterned steel or bismuth in #3–#1 is the sweet spot. Step up to 12-gauge 3.5″ or 10-gauge if you consistently face longer shots in big water. A 20-gauge works well over tight decoys with quality non-toxic loads, while a 28-gauge (TSS/bismuth) is a specialized, close-range option. Whatever you choose, pattern your gun, prioritize clean shots, use non-toxic shot where required, and follow all local laws.