I'm with RickyBobby and Dirtfarmer--cottontails East or West with a .410: an old 1970s 870 Wingmaster, a .410 barreled T-C "Carbine," or my old 1951 Win Model 37 single shot.
I use 4s because just one or two will kill the little critter without messing him up much, and the hair in the bigger wound trail shows you where to find the pellet before it gets between your back teeth.
Now in CA I have to use non-lead, so I load up fired .444 Marlin cases with the equivalent of a half-ounce bismuth load--that does the job. If they sit, I try to get the pattern a little high so a couple of shot hit them in the head. They don't often sit, though.
Wish I had the time and space for some beagles. Best little musicians ever! Some of the best huntin' buddies, too! And a real classy "paint job" on 'em by Ma Nature!
Last edited by Mesa; 03/15/21.
