Shotguns for West Virginia turkey and small game

West Virginia has a rich upland tradition: spring gobblers on the ridges, ruffed grouse in the cutovers, squirrels in the oak and hickory woods and waterfowl on the Ohio River. One or two good shotguns cover it all. Always check the WVDNR hunting regulations for season dates and legal shot.

Turkey

A 12 or 20 gauge with a tight turkey choke is the standard. Modern tungsten loads let a 20 gauge reach 40 yards cleanly with much less recoil. Pattern your gun at 20, 30 and 40 yards, and consider a small red dot. Camo and a short barrel help in thick mountain laurel.

Grouse and woodcock

A light 20 gauge or 28 gauge with an open choke swings fast in the thick cover where grouse live. Over-and-under and side-by-side guns are traditional; a light semi-auto works too.

Squirrel and rabbit

Many hunters use a .22 rifle for squirrels, but a 20 gauge with number 6 shot works well in leafy early season woods.

Waterfowl

On the Ohio River and its backwaters, a 12 gauge with a 3-inch chamber and non-toxic shot is the choice. Waterfowl guns must be plugged to three shells, and you need a federal duck stamp.

Pump or semi-auto

Pumps such as the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 are affordable and rugged. Semi-autos from Beretta, Benelli, Browning and Stoeger soften recoil. Check length of pull so the gun fits you.

Shop shotguns and shells, and read the buck season guide.

General information, not legal advice. Current as of September 2026. Laws change; check the official source before you act.