The Ultimate Guide to Shotgunning: Guns, Gear, and Hunting Tactics for Deer, Big Game, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, and Small Game

/ David R. Henderson's "The Ultimate Guide to Shotgunning" is a surprisingly good introduction to the shotgun's history, its models and specifications, and the personalities who drive its innovations and lore. The author is a three-term past President of the National Association of Shooting Sports Writers, and it should indicate that there is very little "fluff" in this book. The shotgun is often said to be the most useful of all firearms. It is useful in hunting, and as a home defense weapon, it has no parallells. Henderson explains the "gauge" designation right away, and goes on to indicate why barrels lengthen or shorten in various models. Author Henderson does not only explain the differences in Shotguns, whether they are Pumps, Over/Under, Side By Side, or SemiAuto / Autoloader, but also discusses the people who initiate changes in the mechanics and the production. I've heard other names associated with Shotgun books, but even though be thick, it often happens that they become a compendium of useless information, and often bore the reader after a chapter or two of reading. Henderson does not fail to keep the reader interested. Whether he is explaining the difference in barrel thickness between American Made & British Made Shotguns (American barrels are thicker), or explaining why barrels in excess of 28 inches fall out of favor, and subsequently return to favor, the author advances the reader's understanding of essential Shotgun information. He explains CHOKES and PORTED BARRELS. The author discusses GUN FIT and how to choose a model for personal use, shotgun loads and patterning, How to work with beginners and the young. I believe the essential necessity of any Shotgun book is instruction on Wingshooting and Henderson covers several "methods" of Wingshooting, and even acknowledges the INSTINCTIVE SHOOTER. Beyond this, Henderson covers hunting Big Game, and Slugs, as well as the proverbial Waterfowling. He covers Turkey Hunting, and finally, TRAP & SKEET (shooting clay pigeons in competition). Henderson ends with a favorite subject of mine, which is reloading shotshells. The Appendix consists of a dozen pages listing many shotgun manufacturers, and sources for accessories and reloading supplies. An excellent book in my opinion, and well worth the money.

Excellently written and simple to understand. Written for pure enthuasts by a very experienced hand.