Help me, guys

[Sweet Melissa]

Okay, here's the deal. My well-intentioned husband bought me a Marlin .22 for Christmas. It's been a cruddy week, and I hate to say this gift did not make it better. Not exactly on the top end of my wish list, but now his feelings are a little hurt.

What I would like, but is not totally doable at this point in time, is to get into waterfowl hunting. We have talked about getting me a shotgun, and I have attended a shooting skills clinic. I just don't have the time to put into it yet with my kids being so small.

With that in mind as the end goal, how can I use this great little .22 to become a super duck hunter in a few years? Any and all suggestions or comments will be more than appreciated.

[Don Becker]

Start shooting clay pigeons with .22 bird shot Don

[traks44]

Keep an eye out for a used shotgun in the classifieds here and try jumpin a ride with some of the folks from here. A .22 isnt gonna be much help for waterfowling.....

[bigjake_888]

Don't do anything. Put the gun in the safe and let it go.

[Sweet Melissa]

I guess what I'm thinking is that there have to be some techniques or skills that will transfer from using the .22 to using a shotgun. Breathing? Aim? Learning to shoot without a flinch?

Just thinking here. Trying to make the most of this.

[chromecatcher]

While 22's aren't practical for duck hunting they are almost a nesessity for all hunters. Shoot it as much as you can to hone your shooting skills. When you get to be an expert with a rifle shotguns come as second nature. Plus I like to shoot the 22 after any Large bore weopon to eliminate any flinch that I might have.

[jnicholson]

Let me interpret, Guns are like Shoes. You will need to get more depending on the day of the week or what you are shooting.

That .22 ain't goint to work for ducks any more than your high heels are going to work at the gym. You know you're going to need both so I suggest since he did his best you shower him with "love and sweet affection" and he will get you another gun... maybe a shotgun this time?

Bucky

[Sweet Melissa]

Originally Posted by chromecatcher

While 22's aren't practical for duck hunting they are almost a nesessity for all hunters. Shoot it as much as you can to hone your shooting skills. When you get to be an expert with a rifle shotguns come as second nature. Plus I like to shoot the 22 after any Large bore weopon to eliminate any flinch that I might have.

Thanks, chromecatcher. That is exactly what I wanted to hear. I've been looking at some other shooting forums and websites this afternoon, and they have basically given the same advice to beginners.

I developed a bad flinch after using a shotgun for the first time in several years. Using a nice Beretta Urika at the shooting skills clinic helped relieve that, but I can see where the .22 would come in handy for that, as well. Very easy gun to use.

[steelhead22]

Jackrabbits. Enjoy!

[Limbhanger]

Be honest with hubby. He should be thrilled to take it back and put the money toward the shotgun you want.

[wapiteaser]

Originally Posted by Limbhanger

Be honest with hubby. He should be thrilled to take it back and put the money toward the shotgun you want.

No, No, No, Tell him it is great and go shooting with him. Also, strongly imply that you really need a nice shotgun because you really want to go bird hunting. Don't ease up, just keep throwing the hints out there at him. Put yourself in his shoes. What would he do if he wanted a new shotgun? Good luck and I hope you and your husband have many enjoyable trips together. Happy Holidays.

ps. When is your birthday? Make sure he knows when it is.

[Limbhanger]

To each his own I guess. My wife and I dont hint around for anything. We tell each other what we want, or what we like straight up and there are a lot less misunderstandings. Niether of us get our feelings hurt over silly gift issues and are more than willing to be honest because we both would rather see each other with something that we will use, or be happy with.
Interesting to see all the different answers though. I guess I am a caveman and like things simple and straight. Whatever works !!

[scottishsetter]

Suggest things around the house of his, HE should sell to ALLOW you to GO DUCK hunting with him!(YES!!!!)

May not work;;;prepare yourself..

[nevermiss]

Any real hunter would want more than just one gun. I know in my case a .22 revolver helped me from developing any flinches while learning to shoot my .44 magnum. A .22 rifle can be fun to use, especially if you can make any lethal shots on jackrabbits--that's similar to bird hunting in regard to leading your target. Those jacks can be lightning quick.

[pharmseller]

Originally Posted by Limbhanger

To each his own I guess. My wife and I dont hint around for anything. We tell each other what we want, or what we like straight up and there are a lot less misunderstandings. Niether of us get our feelings hurt over silly gift issues and are more than willing to be honest because we both would rather see each other with something that we will use, or be happy with.
Interesting to see all the different answers though. I guess I am a caveman and like things simple and straight. Whatever works !!

Yep. At my house, too. Crab rings aren't very romantic but that's what I got for Valentine's Day. Just what I wanted.

P

[baltz526]

look him in the eye and say! where is my 12ga automatic?

[billc_sbio]

Well one technique (and I know you're probably NOT going to believe this) that HAS been used before was to teach shooters to use .22s to shoot Aspirin tablets out of the air.

Now IF you could get good at shooting 8/10 Aspirins out of the air at 30', I can GUARANTEE you that you be able to do VERY well at Duck Hunting with any 12 ga. shotgun!

(I know it doesn't sound practical, but it is the truth!)

Annie Oakley was truly one of (if not THE best) greatest shots that ever lived. She usually used smoothbore rifles and shot cartridges for her acts (because of the close proximity of the audience).

But she could do almost as well shooting bullets!

She was also a fantastic shotgun shooter and could really wow fellow shooters on the Trap Range.

[snazl]

With a safe back-stop,
Hang a can on a 3 foot string.
with the can swinging back and forth learn to mount the gun and shoot.

It will help you develop proper gun mount and to learn lead.

Push the muzzle at the target as you mount the gun and shoot the front edge of the can as you swing thru.

Good luck and don't out shoot him too bad or he might not take you hunting.

[Sweet Melissa]

Originally Posted by billc_sbio

Well one technique (and I know you're probably NOT going to believe this) that HAS been used before was to teach shooters to use .22s to shoot Aspirin tablets out of the air.

Now IF you could get good at shooting 8/10 Aspirins out of the air at 30', I can GUARANTEE you that you be able to do VERY well at Duck Hunting with any 12 ga. shotgun!

(I know it doesn't sound practical, but it is the truth!)

That does sound crazy. I have generally good aim, but not sure if I am THAT good. I can, and do, outshoot my husband and my father-in-law.

I earned the nickname "Annie Oakley" from my family after I shot this half-grown skunk last year. Hubby injured the poor thing, and I had to finish it off. One shot to the head, no spray.

P7180223.jpg

snazl,

I will definitely try that. Thanks.

[SXS]

Apples and Oranges. Rifle shooting and shotgun shooting are different. With a rifle you can zero the sights; a shotgun must fit. You have time to line up your sights; a shotgun must fit. You squeeze a rifle trigger; you pull a shotgun trigger. Rifle shooting you want your game still; shotgun is shooting at moving targets (if you have any manners). Many other differences. Keep the rifle and enjoy it all summer. Get a shotgun (that fits) and start on clay targets. Leave the aspirin for the stunt shooters. By this fall you will be a good rifle shot, AND a good wing shot. They ain't the same.

[Sweet Melissa]

Originally Posted by SXS

Apples and Oranges. Rifle shooting and shotgun shooting are different. They ain't the same.

Not planning on shooting aspirin, though I would be interested in seeing someone do that.

As far as rifle and shotgun shooting being apples and oranges... I think that's true if you're already comfortable and familiar with firearms. For those of us, like myself or a kid who is just learning, I think others have mentioned that a .22 is a good way to get started.

I didn't learn to shoot, or swim, or drive a manual transmission, or do a whole bunch of other things, when I was a kid. So, I'm trying to learn all that stuff now, in my 30's. I feel like a big enough dope as it is, so I appreciate the helpful comments that make me not feel so foolish about asking basic questions.

[traks44]

Originally Posted by Limbhanger

To each his own I guess. My wife and I dont hint around for anything. We tell each other what we want, or what we like straight up and there are a lot less misunderstandings. Niether of us get our feelings hurt over silly gift issues and are more than willing to be honest because we both would rather see each other with something that we will use, or be happy with.
Interesting to see all the different answers though. I guess I am a caveman and like things simple and straight. Whatever works !!

Wise Words!!!!!

[Flatfish]

Guns are like shoes, you need several to make it thru a year.

[billc_sbio]

Actually I know it DOES sound crazy (the shooting at Aspirins thing).

And Rifles and Shotguns ARE "different beasts" and held/shot differently, especially Rifles at stationary targets.

However on aerial targets not so much.

This Aspirin tablet shooting thing was actually something that I remember being written up in a gun magazine when I was a kid.

There was some super shooter who was trying to interest the U.S. Army to teach their soldiers these instinctive shooting techniques and they were seriously looking at it.

In fact Daisy even made a special BB Gun that was made up just for this (I'm guessing it only existed in production for a year or two) and it was made WITHOUT any sights on it.

Re Annie Oakley, lookup/read information on her shooting feats and what she could do (and routinely did) with long guns.

She was truly AMAZING!

[Bait O' Eggs]

Originally Posted by Sweet Melissa

.... how can I use this great little .22 to become a super duck hunter in a few years? Any and all suggestions or comments will be more than appreciated.

I wouldnt even tell you in gest to use the 22 caliber to "threaten" , .....and I use that word in the kindest and gentlest terms the husband to get you the gun you want. Many a people have been motived to do things they didnt think they would do while looking at the business end of a firearm.

Not the most politically correct method, but one that hadnt been mentioned yet on this thread for you to think about

[shorthair]

One thing you can learn from a .22 is properly mounting the gun as in doing it the same every time also trigger control can be learned as well though shooting at flying targets is for some hard to do with a rifle you coulg do some pass shooting with it but I'd remov the rear sight first so pointing not aiming becomes natural. Give him a kiss , thank him & enjoy.

[Dave Smith]

Originally Posted by Limbhanger

Be honest with hubby. He should be thrilled to take it back and put the money toward the shotgun you want.

OFCOURSE! Sweet Melissa- is your post for real? For God's sake, woman! Tell your husband you didn't want a 22, you wanted a SHOTGUN- it's really that easy. The 22 is worthless, considering your goals. If he loves you, he will get you what YOU want, not want HE wants you to have. You can shoot clay pigeons with that 22, and then when you switch to a shotgun, you'll be shocked at the recoil and also how forgiving it is as far as aiming and not having to be dead-on like you did with the 22. Get a shotgun and get started- you're not getting any younger and bird hunting is not getting any better. Get rid of the 22 and get a shotgun- do it! (and ofcourse: good luck and Merry Christmas, thank God you have a cool husband just like he's thanking God he has a cool wife)
Dave

[Hookset]

Not exactly on the top end of my wish list, but now his feelings are a little hurt.

Sorry to hear the gift didn't work out. This is exactly why I would rather discuss gift purchases first to avoid awkward moments. Here's my advice; instead of trying to justify keeping the .22, have an honest and open conversation with your husband about what just transpired and how to avoid this in the future. When it comes to spending money and buying gifts, surprises do not always work out as planned.

I've been down this same path before and found it was better to have the gifter and the giftee on the same page before shopping.........eliminates hard feelings, unnecessary gifts and spending.

Now if you decide to keep the .22, it's a great gun to practice shooting with, even if it's not a shotgun. You can spend hours shooting targets and plinking, even some good natured competition. You mentally get your mind wrapped around safety, trigger, ammo, aiming and concentration.

have fun and good luck,

Gregg

[llama77]

Melissa,
There are some drills that you can do with the 22 to help you prepare for wingshooting.

1st) Mounting. On a shotgun your eye is the rear sight. If your eye doesnt line up directly in line with the barrel, say to the left a little, thats where the shot will go. So to shoot consistently the gun needs to be mounted the same each time so your eye gets lined up properly.

So even if the gun doesnt fit you well, you can train your muscles to mount a gun to the same plae each time.. When you get the shotgun you will be one step ahead. A simple drill is to place 3 small pieces of paper or whatever
on the wall at eye level 10 to 15 feet away, and about two feet apart.

P:ractice focusing on one piece of paper and mounting the gun, lower the gun pick another piece focus on it and mount the gun again. When you start the stock should be under your arm next to you and the barrel should be lined up about level with the paper. When you shoot at a bird, the barrel should go to the bird before the stock comes up.

2nd) Shooting the 22: As has been mentioned, shooting at hand thrown items with BB guns and 22s is a practical method to teach you some fundmentals. Do a search on "Leon Measures" He has a kit for learning to wingshoot with a BB gun and adverstises that his graduates do indeed break aspirin tablets in the air.

Basically focusing hard on what you intend to shoot. If you look at the barrel of a shotgun when wingshooting to check your lead, you will stop your swing and miss. Shooting with a BB gun or 22 can help teach you to ignore the barrel and focus on the target. Other benefits are safety, lighweight gun that can be shot a lot more without fatigue, and little to no recoil, lots of practice withoiut getting bruised up!

One of the problems with the 22 is that like a shotgun it must fit you properly to be successful. The odds are that if you mount the 22 right now your eye will not align properly with the barrel and there may be sights in the way.

It will be counter productive to try and learn to wingshoot with a gun that doesnt put the shot where you are looking or at a minimum, close to it.

So the first thing youll need to do is get the 22 to fit. You could try premounting the gun. Make sure its lined up properly and then call for the target. But this would be a 2nd choice to getting a good fit.

Next item is safety. Youll have to find a pretty remote location to be shooting the 22 into the air though the birdshot suggestion would solve that. And youll have to find something that can be thrown and be safe for the thrower.

As for targets. Dont start with aspirin. Start with a pop can. When you get bored with that go to a small cat food can. When you get bored with that put a piece tape the size of a quarter on the can and hit the tape, etc...
Use your imagination.

With that being said, I think the 22 isnt the best choice to start with. If its all youve got then go ahead.


If you want to read a little and get a better understanding wingshooting, do a search on "Optimum Performance Shooting" Gil and vicky Ash. A ton of really good info.

[Rbogus]

I would strongly suggest you never toss anything in the air and shoot a rifle/pistol of any caliber at it.
You must always know where the projectile from any gun is going before you fire it.
Shotguns shooting shot are far less dangerous and loose power quickly and fall to the earth with much less velocity.
Most every body that owns more than one gun own a 22. Instead of complaining about a gift I would show appreciation and if you want a different gun talk to your husband about starting a savings for it.
Feelings of a giver giving in love are worth a bunch more than the selfishness of complaining about not getting what you want, that is how children act not adults.
I wish you the best in getting that first shotgun,
you will enjoy the 22 just use it in a safe manner at all times.

[STRUTTIN-1]

Originally Posted by Sweet Melissa

I didn't learn to shoot, or swim, or drive a manual transmission, or do a whole bunch of other things, when I was a kid. So, I'm trying to learn all that stuff now, in my 30's. I feel like a big enough dope as it is, so I appreciate the helpful comments that make me not feel so foolish about asking basic questions.

Melissa,being a dope is having a questions and not asking.22 you can learn saftey eye cordination not flinching ect.But shotguns and 22 are 2 diff types of shooting and target aquireing leading ect..Be secure in your relationship.I would rather have someone tell me they would rather have then to have and not be happy.{Within reason of course}.

[traks44]

I am sure there is an Ifisher on here that lives close enough and would lone you a gun. If I lived closer I would do it in a heart beat.

Someone has got to have a loner gun???? 20 Gauge???

[boatman]

He must have a birthday coming up and you could get you a nice gift you like.

[Sweet Melissa]

One last post, and then I'll let this one go.

As I mentioned in the original post, this has not been the best of weeks. Husband working an odd shift in bad road conditions, 12+ days in a row. Power outages, no heat, phone or cell service. Living with my in-laws for part of the week. And a couple of housebound little ones bouncing off the walls, while poor hubby tries to sleep during the day. Also, all Christmas plans got put on hold.

I know the true meaning of Christmas, and what the day really should be about. I should have been a lot more grateful than I acted. It was a nice gift, and right now I have far more use for a .22 than a shotgun. My Ruger got stolen last year on Thanksgiving, so I needed another one to replace it. Neighborhood varmints, beware!

One of these days, I will get that shotgun. (I'm holding out for the Beretta, so it could be a while. ) Until then, I'm going to order an auto-reset .22 target for doing some plinking. Hopefully, my husband will forgive me for being a royal baby about the whole thing, and shoot a round or two with me.

Oh, and today he got me what I had asked for, which was a Brad Paisley CD. So, now I've got a new gun and some country music. Livin' the high life.

[Rbogus]

I know the true meaning of Christmas, and what the day really should be about. I should have been a lot more grateful than I acted. It was a nice gift, and right now I have far more use for a .22 than a shotgun. My Ruger got stolen last year on Thanksgiving, so I needed another one to replace it. Neighborhood varmints, beware!

One of these days, I will get that shotgun. (I'm holding out for the Beretta, so it could be a while. ) Until then, I'm going to order an auto-reset .22 target for doing some plinking. Hopefully, my husband will forgive me for being a royal baby about the whole thing, and shoot a round or two with me.

Very happy to read this.
We are all guilty of saying things we regret, it's nice to see you realize that and do something about it.
I am sure your hubby will be happy when you explain it to him and I know you will feel better.
Good luck on that shotgun.

[sidewinder]

To me..The .22lr was the best caliber ever invented. I bet you never get rid of that gun. Your husbands heart was in the right place. Think of all the cheap shooting. You can shoot 500 rounds now for the price of a box of shotgun shells. Its going to be a blast.
You've slapped yourself around enough. Start shootin that .22!

[nunyet]

The main difference in shooting a rifle and a shotgun is with the rifle your primary vision is on the sights and with a shotgun your hard focus is on the target. A big problem in teaching a rifle shooter to shoot a shotgun is to keep them from looking at the barrel or sights .

I have a ruger auto 22 that I have the sights off so I can practice proper trigger control and eye movement without recoil being present .

Many shooters have eye dominance problems , you have a great advantage as you can find out your dominate eye before you start . If you are right handed and right eye dominate or left handed and left eye dominate your good to go. If you are right handed and left eye dominate , and as many as 20 percent of women are, you may want to start with the gun in your left shoulder as this will allow you to shoot with both eyes open which is a big advantage.

As far as gun fit , if you make sure that when you mount the rifle your eye is over the line of the barrel and not being blocked by the back of the receiver this is probably close enough as your style will change so much after a few bricks of shells. Set up a couple of pop cans and mount the gun firmly, eye to the target then gun to the target ,move your eyes to the next target bring the barrel over and shoot. You will be amazed how effective this is and some of the best practice for wing shooting possible.

keep the 22

nunyet