{"id":663,"date":"2023-02-01T19:04:10","date_gmt":"2023-02-01T19:04:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/?p=663"},"modified":"2023-02-01T19:04:10","modified_gmt":"2023-02-01T19:04:10","slug":"squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/?p=663","title":{"rendered":"Squirrel Hunting: Fun with Clothes On"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"article-image\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<p>I consider myself fortunate to have lived in the time and place that I did. Access to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/hunting-gear\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hunting<\/a> and shooting grounds were abundant and free. All the days I spent in the field shooting jackrabbits and ground squirrels were responsible, more than anything else, for making me the expert rifleman I became. I believe, I have shot most every kind of varmint that there is from rock chucks in the lava beds of Idaho, cottontail rabbits in brown waves, marmots in high mountain valleys, prairie dogs from the Canadian border to Mexico, pestilential numbers of jackrabbits throughout the American West, groundhogs in the hills of the Virginia\u2019s and Ground Squirrels from South Africa to Canada.<\/p>\n<p>All that varmint shooting offered its own challenges and satisfactions. But for the sheer volume of shooting, nothing beats shooting ground squirrels on the prairies of Alberta, Canada. I guarantee shooting ground squirrels is the best fun you can have with clothes on. Now Ed, you might be saying, prove it.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"414\" alt=\"A chubby Canadian gopher (ground squirrel) poking out of the grass\" class=\"wp-image-85775 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-1.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-1.jpg?resize=300%2C194&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-1.jpg?resize=150%2C97&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-1.jpg?resize=640%2C414&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"414\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-1.jpg?resize=640%2C414&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"A chubby Canadian gopher (ground squirrel) poking out of the grass\" class=\"wp-image-85775\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-1.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-1.jpg?resize=300%2C194&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-1.jpg?resize=150%2C97&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Our quarry, the dreaded and chubby Canadian gopher\u2026. Err, ground squirrel.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Well, sit back, relax, and I\u2019ll relate a wild story about littering the high plains of Canada with 12,000 brass casings. Guaranteed this tale will whet your appetite for squirrel. Once I\u2019m sure you\u2019re hooked, I\u2019ll give you a peak at the gear and some tips to get you going.<\/p>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-2 ai-viewport-2 ai-viewport-3\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--Mid Article Ad for Mobile and Tablet--><br \/>\n<a target=\"\u201d_blank\u201d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/financing.html\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/credova_ad_mob.jpg?w=640&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/credova_ad_mob.jpg?w=640&amp;ssl=1\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<h2>Gear<\/h2>\n<p>In most areas, it is easy to fire a brick (500 rounds) of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/rimfire\/.22-long-rifle\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">.22 ammunition<\/a> a day. In a good area, 1,000 rounds a day is not hard to shoot. Of course, in helps if you have a couple of accurate <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/firearms\/rifles\/semi-automatic\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">semi-automatic rifles<\/a> and plenty of high-capacity <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/parts-and-accessories\/magazines\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">magazines<\/a> for each. It also helps if you can find the assistance of a nimble-fingered loader who doesn\u2019t like to shoot.<\/p>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-1 ai-viewport-1\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--Mid Article Ad for Desktop--><br \/>\n<a target=\"\u201d_blank\u201d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/contest.html?cid=contest\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" align=\"center\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/rdf_jan23_ad_mob.jpg?w=500&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/rdf_jan23_ad_mob.jpg?w=500&amp;ssl=1\" align=\"center\" px=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<p>I recommend this type of high volume shooting be undertaken with rimfires. Specifically, I recommend rifles chambered in the ubiquitous .22 Long Rifle. You can certainly shoot centerfire rifles, but you will never shoot as many squirrels as you can with rimfires.<\/p>\n<p>In a secret spot, you would burn the barrel out of a good centerfire rifle in short order. Personally, I prefer a higher body count and save my centerfires for prairie dogs at longer ranges. My two favorite calibers for ground squirrels are the .22 WRM and .17 HMR. The .22 really thumps them, and the .17 reaches out pretty good as I have made documented kills out to 400-plus yards with one.<\/p>\n<p>I reserve the use of my centerfire rifles to my shooting trailer with its rotating shooting table, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/range-gear\/shooting-rests\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sandbags<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/parts-and-accessories\/scopes-and-optics\/spotting-scopes-and-telescopes\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">spotting scope<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/parts-and-accessories\/scopes-and-optics\/range-finders\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">rangefinder<\/a> for prairie dogs. Where shots are as long as 1,000 yards and limited to 200\u2013300 a day. But for ground squirrels, with the need for high-volume shooting and mobility as an asset, I prefer being agile, mobile, and hostile. That way, when all the squirrels in your area have gone underground, you just move to another location and do it all over again. The secret to shooting lots of ground squirrels is to maintain mobility.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"304\" alt=\"Elevated shooting platform from a truck-pulled trailer\" class=\"wp-image-85776 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-2.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-2.jpg?resize=300%2C143&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-2.jpg?resize=150%2C71&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-2.jpg?resize=640%2C304&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"304\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-2.jpg?resize=640%2C304&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Elevated shooting platform from a truck-pulled trailer\" class=\"wp-image-85776\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-2.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-2.jpg?resize=300%2C143&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-2.jpg?resize=150%2C71&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>The view from atop one of my \u201cWar Wagons\u201d in the hunting fields.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Location<\/h2>\n<p>Finding locations that harbor those kinds of populations requires some travel. I will go wherever it takes me, because it sure is fun. One year, while I was attending one of Chuck Cornett\u2019s legendary Invitation Only Prairie Dog Conventions, I met Gun writer Stuart Williams. We got to talking about high-volume hot-barrel hunts.<\/p>\n<p>During that conversation, he mentioned the best he had ever experienced was in Alberta Canada. His story seemed beyond unbelievable. He said that after a morning\u2019s shoot when they opened the doors of the Suburban, the brass was a foot deep and cascaded out like a waterfall. He sure got my attention.<\/p>\n<p>I called the outfitter who provided the orgiastic experience, got prices, dates, and all the information necessary to book a shoot. The best dates for that year were fast approaching, but I needed three other gullible shooters to make up a party of four. The outfitter confided that ground squirrels were a real pest in his area, and the farmers and ranchers really wanted them culled.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"412\" alt=\"LaPorta Potty Shooting Trailer\" class=\"wp-image-85777 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-3.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-3.jpg?resize=300%2C193&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-3.jpg?resize=150%2C97&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-3.jpg?resize=640%2C412&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"412\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-3.jpg?resize=640%2C412&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"LaPorta Potty Shooting Trailer\" class=\"wp-image-85777\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-3.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-3.jpg?resize=300%2C193&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-3.jpg?resize=150%2C97&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>My LaPorta Potty Shooting Trailer in the prairie dog towns around Havre, Montana.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>I don\u2019t think I exaggerated to get my three volunteers on board. After all, why would Stewart exaggerate, I mean, which gun writer exaggerates\u2026 Right? Mea Culpa! So, on the day of our departure we were sitting in the international lounge at LAX, chatting with a fellow hunter and outfitter, who said he guided for sheep in Alberta. When we mentioned that our intentions were to shoot ground squirrels he said, in no uncertain terms, that they did not have ground squirrels in Alberta.<\/p>\n<p>Now, the doubts and the questioning started. I was able to reassure and deflect the questioning at the cost of some pre-flight adult beverages. We got split up on the flight, but every few minutes, I\u2019d hear from one of them that everyone was saying, \u201cThere are no ground squirrels in Alberta.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>After quite a few additional alcoholic drinks (on my tab), we landed in Calgary. The customs officer had also never heard of ground squirrels. Now I was starting to have my doubts. I was finally relieved when the outfitter picked us up and explained that in Canada, they don\u2019t call them ground squirrels, they call them gophers.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" alt=\"Alberta hunting lodge\" class=\"wp-image-85778 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-4.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-4.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-4.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-4.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-4.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Alberta hunting lodge\" class=\"wp-image-85778\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-4.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-4.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-4.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>The first-class accommodations in Alberta.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Because this was to be a high-volume hot-barrel shoot, and everyone expected eradication numbers in the thousands, we had to pre-order the number of rounds each of us wanted ahead of time. This was to ensure the local gun shop would have the brand and quantity in stock. I was the most optimistic and ordered 2,500 rounds of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/rimfire\/.22-magnum\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">.22 WRM<\/a> and a like amount for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/rimfire\/.17-hmr\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">.17 HMR<\/a>. The others kept to 2,000 rounds if they brought one rifle, and 1,000 each if they brought two.<\/p>\n<p>When we got to the gun shop, everyone was showing the influence of the no squirrel propaganda and only purchased one brick of 500 each. A case of the doubts was even getting to me, and I only took 2,000 rounds of my order. I must admit the propaganda was getting to me and the weather was cold, windy, and damp.<\/p>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-4 ai-viewport-2 ai-viewport-3\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--End of Article Ad for Mobile and Tablet--><br \/>\n<a target=\"\u201d_blank\u201d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/financing.html\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/credova_ad_mob.jpg?w=640&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/credova_ad_mob.jpg?w=640&amp;ssl=1\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-3 ai-viewport-1\" style=\"margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; display: block; clear: both;\">\n<!--End of Article Ad for Desktop--><br \/>\n<a target=\"\u201d_blank\u201d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/financing.html\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" align=\"center\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/credova_ad.jpg?w=500&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" class=\" jetpack-lazy-image\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/credova_ad.jpg?w=500&amp;ssl=1\" align=\"center\" px=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<p>The accommodations, however, were at a first-class bed and breakfast with a chef, bartender, and full time staff. But by the next morning, the weather had not improved and the doubting continued. A couple of the members of our party were even threatening to stay in and play pool, eat the gourmet snacks, and watch movies on the big screen instead of getting cold, wet, and disappointed. I can\u2019t lie, that sounded good compared to the howling wind. However, I had no option but to put on a good front.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" alt=\"vast sky, and the snow covered peaks of the Rockies and Glacier National Park\" class=\"wp-image-85779 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-5.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-5.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-5.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-5.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-5.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"vast sky, and the snow covered peaks of the Rockies and Glacier National Park\" class=\"wp-image-85779\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-5.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-5.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-5.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>The vast sky, and the snow covered peaks of the Rockies and Glacier National Park in the distance.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<h2>The Hunt<\/h2>\n<p>Our outfitter said we would be sorry we didn\u2019t get more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/ammunition\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ammo<\/a>. Fortunately, he was more than correct. Once we entered the ranch property, we started to see a fat little ground squirrel here and there. Then we saw them groups of two or three. A little farther and they were in groups of five or six. As soon as the sun rose, they appeared in the 100s, if not thousands.<\/p>\n<p>From 10 feet to as far as you see, without letting up. We had one shooter at each window of the Suburban with one in the center rear seat. The outfitter, who was driving, would reload magazines as would the center rear seater. We rotated positions every 15 minutes. At switch time, we drove the vehicle about 50 yards to a new spot and kept shooting. Before lunch on the first day, those who only took 500 rounds ran out. Fortunately, the outfitter had extra ammo to spot them. He called his daughter and had her pick up the rest of the orders in town and bring them out to us.<\/p>\n<p>The standard <em>modus operandi<\/em> was to drive the Suburban slowly through the gopher-infested meadows. With a shooter at each window, three shooters can pour a constant stream of hot lead out. Frequently, all three shooters are firing at the same time, their hollow-point bullets popping gophers with a \u201c<em>Whop!<\/em>\u2019 \u201c<em>Whop!<\/em>\u2019 \u201c<em>Whop!<\/em>\u2019 \u201c<em>Whop!<\/em>\u2019<\/p>\n<p>The sound of bullets hitting gophers was like the sound of popcorn popping. It is a sweet and heartwarming sound indeed. This kept up without interruption all day. My once doubting companions in crime referred to it as a \u201cAll-day giggle fest.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>We walked the wood and barbed wire fence rows, using them as a rest. At other times, we would station ourselves by old farm machinery, using it as a seat to rest and shoot in all directions. On other occasions, we would take up a stand inside an old, abandoned barn or home, and shoot through the windows openings. Often, we would each shoot over 100 gophers a piece without moving from one place. There were so many that our outfitter taught us how to lasso ground squirrels and walk them like a dog.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"487\" alt=\"Shooting squirrel guns out of the windows of a pickup truck\" class=\"wp-image-85781 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-7.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-7.jpg?resize=300%2C228&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-7.jpg?resize=150%2C114&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-7.jpg?resize=640%2C487&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"487\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-7.jpg?resize=640%2C487&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Shooting squirrel guns out of the windows of a pickup truck\" class=\"wp-image-85781\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-7.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-7.jpg?resize=300%2C228&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-7.jpg?resize=150%2C114&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Guns up! The squirrel-gun truck on its run.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Gophers\u2026. Excuse me! No, they are ground squirrels, and will always be ground squirrels \u2014 no matter what they call them north of the boarder. Gophers are rodents that tear up peoples\u2019 gardens. Now, I feel better that it is settled.<\/p>\n<p>Shooting in Alberta takes place from mid-April through mid-June, and it is a special time of year. Great cumulus clouds sail across the sky, and the snow-covered Rockies and Glacier National Park rise in the distance.<\/p>\n<p>As for ammunition, hollow-point bullets are preferred. I have said (and believe) that pound for pound, the ground squirrel is the toughest animal on earth to kill. I have seen many a ground squirrel take a good solid hit, only to have it run off and escape down its hole, appearing to be totally unfazed. If lions or grizzly bears were as tough, they would own the planet.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"481\" height=\"576\" alt=\"Abandoned farm equipment and old farm house\" class=\"wp-image-85782 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-8.jpg?w=481&amp;ssl=1 481w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-8.jpg?resize=251%2C300&amp;ssl=1 251w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-8.jpg?resize=150%2C180&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 481px) 100vw, 481px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-8.jpg?resize=481%2C576&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"481\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-8.jpg?resize=481%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Abandoned farm equipment and old farm house\" class=\"wp-image-85782\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-8.jpg?w=481&amp;ssl=1 481w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-8.jpg?resize=251%2C300&amp;ssl=1 251w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-8.jpg?resize=150%2C180&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 481px) 100vw, 481px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Some of the abandoned farm equipment we used to camouflage our presence, and one of the abandoned buildings we used.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>The subject of proper rifles and ammo for ground squirrels deserves a little conversation. There aren\u2019t many .22-caliber rifles that combine the high degree of accuracy and the firepower required to be an effective ground squirrel rifle. The ones that I have used with total satisfaction for the past 30 years are a custom-made .22 Magnum designed by Jim Boland that was made by Paul\u2019s Precision of Simi Valley California. It is on a stainless steel AMT action. It sports a Lothar Walther Barrel and Leupold 4.5\u00d714 \u2014 it is incredibly accurate.<\/p>\n<p>A good all-purpose ground squirrel rifle is my H&amp;K 300 in .22 WRM with a Leupold 4.5x14x50AO in a Harry Lawson thumbhole stock. Additionally, I have some of the first Tom Volquartsen special order rifles. One is in .22WRM, with a Leupold 4.5\u00d714. Another is chambered for .17 HMR with a Leupold VXIII 4.5\u00d714. The third was built for .17 Mach 2 with a Zeiss Conquest 4.5x14x56. All are deadly accurate.<\/p>\n<p>I like the 4.5\u00d714 magnification range for its versatility at handling everything from the very close to the very far squirrel. The best choice for my money is the Leupold line of products for performance and quality although you see a Zeiss mixed in to keep me honest. All the scopes have <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/understanding-and-correcting-parallax\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">parallax<\/a> adjustments \u2014 an essential feature for shooting at various ranges.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"273\" alt=\"Lassoing squirrels and shooting from a seated position using a tripod\" class=\"wp-image-85783 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-9.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-9.jpg?resize=300%2C128&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-9.jpg?resize=150%2C64&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-9.jpg?resize=640%2C273&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"273\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-9.jpg?resize=640%2C273&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Lassoing squirrels and shooting from a seated position using a tripod\" class=\"wp-image-85783\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-9.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-9.jpg?resize=300%2C128&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-9.jpg?resize=150%2C64&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Our outfitter showing us how to lasso ground squirrels for when we got bored of shooting them \u2014 like that could ever happen \u2014 and \u201cJimmy the Driller\u201d enjoying a Havana while leisurely executing misbehaving rodents.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Which hollow-point load do I use? The one that the rifle shoots the most accurately. Almost any of them will do if you are shooting at close ranges. Typically, however, you will get lots of shots at ranges out to 125 yards and beyond. For accuracy with the .17\u2019s, my rifles like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/hornady\/ammunition\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hornady\u2019s<\/a> offerings. Paul\u2019s Precision likes the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/federal\/ammunition\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Federal<\/a> offerings. As for the Volquartsen .22 WRM, one round really distinguished itself from the others \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cheaperthandirt.com\/winchester\/ammunition\/?utm_source=blog.cheaperthandirt.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Winchester<\/a> Power Point.<\/p>\n<p>Again, all choices are predicated upon which is the most accurate in a particular rifle. The feature that makes them clearly superior to other rounds for squirrels, however, is the great hollow point that creates terrific hydrostatic shock. It will gut, skin, and turn a squirrel inside out in one instantaneous operation.<\/p>\n<p>Hell, if you put a little Barbecue sauce in the hollow point you could pick them up and eat them. Even more impressive is the sound effect it creates. If you shoot a squirrel amidships, that big hollow point makes a moist clubbing sound, a \u201c<em>Whock!\u201d<\/em> that lets you know immediately \u2014 even at extended range \u2014 that you connected. That is half the pleasure of squirrel shooting.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"338\" alt=\"Top: Custom Jim Boland-designed .22 WRM from Paul\u2019s Precision, Bottom: Tom Volquartsen .17 Mach 2\" class=\"wp-image-85785 jetpack-lazy-image\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-10.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-10.jpg?resize=300%2C158&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-10.jpg?resize=150%2C79&amp;ssl=1 150w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-10.jpg?resize=640%2C338&amp;is-pending-load=1#038;ssl=1\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"640\" height=\"338\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-10.jpg?resize=640%2C338&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Top: Custom Jim Boland-designed .22 WRM from Paul\u2019s Precision, Bottom: Tom Volquartsen .17 Mach 2\" class=\"wp-image-85785\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-10.jpg?w=648&amp;ssl=1 648w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-10.jpg?resize=300%2C158&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Squirrel-Hunting-10.jpg?resize=150%2C79&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption>Top: The custom Jim Boland-designed .22 WRM from Paul\u2019s Precision is a design marvel using an AMT stainless-steel action with a Lothar Walther barrel, custom trigger system, and topped with Leupold 4.5x14AO variable scope that made the trip to the fields of Alberta.<br \/>\nBottom: The Tom Volquartsen .17 Mach 2 that was topped with a Zeiss Conquest 4.5x14x56 variable scope that was used for the close (under 100 yards) shots.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Squirrels are small critters and in certain circumstances can be hard to see. That is where a good pair of binoculars becomes indispensable. I have found 10x to be the best magnification for squirrels, and don\u2019t scrimp on cost. Remember, you are going to be spending a lot of time glassing on a typical day of shooting. The final item you will need, to become the Complete Squirrel Eradicator, is a laser rangefinder.<\/p>\n<p>You may wonder why I recommend a laser rangefinder for shooting at ranges that will average about 50 yards and will seldom exceed 125 yards. It\u2019s so you can collect on those bets as to who made the longest shots. Bye the way, in four days, the four of us accounted for over 12,000 confirmed kills, and we had to stop shooting early because we ran out of ammunition, not targets.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Have you ever hunted squirrels, either on the back 40 for dinner or a varmint erridaction hunt for wildlife? What your favorite squirrel gun? Share your answers in the comment section.<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><span id=\"tve_leads_end_content\" style=\"display: block; visibility: hidden; border: 1px solid transparent;\"\/><!-- AI CONTENT END 1 -->\n\t<\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.cheaperthandirt.com\/squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=squirrel-hunting-fun-with-clothes-on\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>I consider myself fortunate to have lived in the time and place that I did. Access to hunting and shooting grounds were abundant and free. All the days I spent in the field shooting jackrabbits and ground squirrels were responsible, more than anything else, for making me the expert rifleman I became. I believe, I [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":664,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-663","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-gun-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/663","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=663"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/663\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/664"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=663"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=663"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/guncoupons.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=663"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}