Tips, Tricks, and Experiences from our Pro-Staff
LONE STAR HEROES OUTDOORS PRESENTS
Picking the Right Shotgun
By Jamie Hurley Founder Lone Star Heroes Outdoors
Choosing the right shotgun is one of the most important decisions an outdoorsman can make whether you are heading afield for your first bird hunt or upgrading a trusted companion. At Lone Star Heroes Outdoors we believe the right gear builds confidence promotes safety and helps create better experiences in the field.
After years of hunting and working alongside veterans first responders and outdoorsmen of all experience levels I have learned that picking the right shotgun comes down to a few key factors that matter far more than brand names or trends.
Start With Your Purpose
There is no one perfect shotgun for every situation. Before anything else decide what you plan to use the shotgun for most often.
Are you hunting upland birds like quail dove or pheasant
Are you focused on ducks and geese
Do you plan to shoot skeet trap or sporting clays
Are you looking for an all around shotgun that can do a little of everything
Your primary use will determine gauge barrel length action type and overall setup.
Choosing the Right Gauge
Gauge plays a big role in recoil effectiveness and versatility.
The twelve gauge is the most versatile option available. It handles waterfowl upland birds turkey and even home defense well. Recoil can be heavier but modern loads and proper fit reduce that significantly.
The twenty gauge is lighter and easier to carry making it a favorite for upland hunting and newer shooters. It offers plenty of performance with less recoil.
The twenty eight gauge and four ten are excellent for small game and youth shooters but require better shot placement and more experience.
Understanding Action Types
Shotguns come in several action styles each with advantages.
Pump action shotguns are extremely reliable affordable and simple to operate. They perform well in harsh conditions and are easy to maintain.
Semi automatic shotguns reduce felt recoil and allow for quicker follow up shots. They are excellent for waterfowl and clay shooting but require a bit more cleaning.
Break action shotguns including over under and side by side models are traditional balanced and popular with upland hunters. Over under shotguns offer excellent balance while side by side models provide a classic feel.
Barrel Length and Choke Selection
Barrel length affects swing speed and control.
Shorter barrels are quicker to move and ideal for fast flushing birds. Longer barrels provide smoother swings and better follow through for longer shots.
Interchangeable chokes allow you to adjust shot spread based on distance. Improved cylinder and modified chokes work well in most hunting situations while full chokes are better for longer range shots.
Fit Is More Important Than Brand
A shotgun that fits properly will always outperform an expensive shotgun that does not.
Make sure the length of pull allows you to shoulder the gun comfortably. Your eye should naturally line up with the rib without forcing your head down. The gun should balance well and feel natural when you mount it.
Always shoulder several shotguns before buying. Comfort and fit matter more than appearance.
Buy Quality Within Your Budget
You do not need the most expensive shotgun on the rack to be successful. Focus on reliability build quality and manufacturer reputation. Many excellent shotguns are available at reasonable prices and used firearms can offer great value if purchased from a reputable dealer.
Practice Builds Confidence
Once you choose your shotgun spend time learning it. Practice mounting shooting and following through. Try different loads and chokes to understand how your shotgun performs. Confidence comes from repetition and familiarity.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a shotgun is a personal decision. The right one should fit your body match your purpose and give you confidence every time you step into the field.
At Lone Star Heroes Outdoors we see firsthand how the right equipment helps create meaningful outdoor experiences for veterans first responders and their families. Take your time do your research and enjoy the process.
I will see you in the field.
Jamie Hurley
Founder Lone Star Heroes Outdoors
How Hunting and Fishing Foster Healing for Veterans
How Hunting and fishing Foster healing for Veterans
May 3, 2024|Land Management, Personal Experiences, Turkey Hunting, Veteran Outreach, Whitetail Deer Hunting, Wild Game Feed
The Mission of Lone Star Heroes Outdoors
- by Jamie Hurley, CEO, Lone Star Heroes Outdoors®.
Transitioning back to civilian life is a profound challenge for many veterans. Finding solace and a sense of purpose can often be difficult in everyday routines. Lone Star Heroes Outdoors understands this and steps in with a solution—hunting and fishing. These activities are not just pastimes but therapeutic escapes that offer healing, camaraderie, and peace.
Finding Peace in the Great Outdoors:
The serene environments where hunting and fishing take place are often the perfect antidote to the stresses of active duty and post-military life. Lone Star Heroes Outdoors organizes trips into America’s natural landscapes, helping veterans reconnect with the tranquility of the wilderness. Whether it's the calm of fishing at dawn or the quiet wait in a hunting blind, these moments allow a profound connection with nature and offer mental silence and reflection.
Building Community and Brotherhood:
Lone Star Heroes Outdoors is not just about solitary activities; it's about fostering a community. By bringing veterans together on these excursions, the organization helps recreate the deep-seated bonds and brotherhood that are often missed after military service. These gatherings are about more than the catch or the hunt—they are reunions of soldiers seeking understanding and support.
Empowerment Through Skill:
When adapting military skills to civilian hobbies, hunting and fishing require patience, precision, and persistence—qualities familiar to every veteran. With the backing of sponsors such as UGLYBUCK® Minerals & Attractants, Camo Dust, and Googan Squad, our team at Lonestar Heroes Outdoors provides the guidance and support needed to master these skills, empowering veterans with new missions and a renewed sense of accomplishment.
A New Mission in Conservation:
Lone Star Heroes Outdoors also introduces veterans to conservation efforts, providing a new mission that benefits both the individual and the environment. Sustainable practices in hunting and fishing not only protect ecosystems but also instill a sense of contribution and purpose, key elements in the healing process.
The activities organized by Lone Star Heroes Outdoors offer more than just an escape; they provide healing, empowerment, and a newfound brotherhood. For veterans seeking a peaceful yet purposeful reconnection with the world, Lonestar Heroes Outdoors offers a welcoming hand. Join us in the great outdoors, where every veteran has the opportunity to write a new chapter.
Join Us in the Great Outdoors
At Lone Star Heroes Outdoors, we believe every veteran deserves the opportunity to experience the healing power of nature. If you or a loved one served and are looking for a community that understands your journey, we invite you to join us. Our outings are not just about hunting and fishing—they are about connecting with others who share your experiences and finding peace in the beauty of the natural world.
Discover more about our programs and how you can get involved by visiting our website: Lone Star Heroes Outdoors. Together, we can find healing in the great outdoors and build a lasting brotherhood.
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