Best Shotgun Gauges for Hunting Sandhill Cranes: 12 Gauge vs. 20 Gauge and More
Breaking down the best shotgun gauges for bagging the ribeye of the sky.
Choosing the right shotgun gauge for hunting Sandhill Cranes can feel like picking the perfect tool for a high-stakes job. With these majestic birds often referred to as the ‘ribeye of the sky,’ you want to make sure your choice delivers clean, ethical kills while maximizing your effectiveness in the field. But with so many options—12 gauge, 20 gauge, 10 gauge, 16 gauge, and even 28 gauge—how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | 12 gauge | 20 gauge | 10 gauge | 16 gauge | 28 gauge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effective Range The typical range at which each gauge can reliably take down a Sandhill Crane. |
40-50 yards | 30-40 yards | 50-60 yards | 35-45 yards | 20-30 yards |
| Recoil The amount of kick you can expect when firing. |
Moderate | Low | High | Moderate | Very Low |
| Shot Payload The amount of shot (pellets) the gauge can hold, impacting lethality. |
High | Moderate | Very High | Moderate | Low |
| Weight of Shotgun The typical weight of a shotgun chambered for this gauge. |
7-8 lbs | 6-7 lbs | 9-10 lbs | 7-8 lbs | 5-6 lbs |
| Ammunition Availability How easy it is to find ammo for this gauge. |
Widely Available | Widely Available | Moderately Available | Limited Availability | Limited Availability |
12 gauge
The 12 gauge is the gold standard for waterfowl and upland bird hunting, and it excels for Sandhill Cranes. With a versatile range of loads, it offers a balance of power, range, and manageable recoil. It is widely available and works well for both seasoned hunters and beginners.
Pros
- Versatile
- Widely available ammo
- Good balance of power and recoil
Cons
- Heavier than smaller gauges
- Recoil may be too much for some
Interesting Fact: The 12 gauge is so popular that it accounts for over 50% of all shotgun sales in the U.S.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a reliable, all-around performer for Sandhill Cranes.
20 gauge
The 20 gauge is a lighter, more maneuverable option that still packs enough punch for close to mid-range crane hunting. It’s a great choice for hunters who prioritize reduced recoil and lighter gear, though it may lack the range and payload of larger gauges.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Low recoil
- Widely available ammo
Cons
- Limited range
- Smaller shot payload
Interesting Fact: The 20 gauge is often called the ‘gentleman’s gauge’ for its lighter recoil and refined feel.
Consider this Caliber If…
You prefer a lighter shotgun and plan to hunt at closer ranges.
10 gauge
The 10 gauge is the heavyweight champion of shotgun gauges, offering unparalleled power and range. It’s ideal for long-range shots and larger birds like Sandhill Cranes, but the trade-off is significant recoil and a heavier shotgun.
Pros
- Longest effective range
- Massive shot payload
- Highly effective for large birds
Cons
- Heavy recoil
- Limited ammo availability
- Heavy shotgun
Interesting Fact: The 10 gauge was historically used for market hunting and is now favored for specialized waterfowl and crane hunting.
Consider this Caliber If…
You need maximum power and range for long-distance crane hunting.
16 gauge
The 16 gauge is a middle-ground option that offers a blend of power and lighter weight. While it’s not as popular as the 12 or 20 gauge, it’s a solid choice for hunters who want something different without sacrificing too much performance.
Pros
- Balanced power and weight
- Moderate recoil
Cons
- Limited ammo availability
- Not as versatile as 12 or 20 gauge
Interesting Fact: The 16 gauge is often called the ‘forgotten gauge,’ but it’s making a comeback among enthusiasts.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a unique option that still performs well for crane hunting.
28 gauge
The 28 gauge is the lightest and most nimble option on this list. While it’s not ideal for long-range shots or larger birds, it’s a joy to shoot and works well for close-range hunting with precise aim.
Pros
- Very low recoil
- Lightweight
- Easy to handle
Cons
- Limited range
- Small shot payload
- Limited ammo availability
Interesting Fact: The 28 gauge is often favored by upland bird hunters for its low recoil and lightweight design.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want the lightest, easiest-to-handle shotgun for close-range crane hunting.
Conclusion
When it comes to hunting Sandhill Cranes, the right shotgun gauge depends on your priorities. The 12 gauge offers unmatched versatility, while the 10 gauge provides maximum power for long-range shots. The 20 gauge is a lightweight, low-recoil option, and the 16 and 28 gauges cater to hunters seeking unique or specialized experiences. Choose the gauge that fits your hunting style, and you’ll be well on your way to bagging the ribeye of the sky.