What is the best gauge for perdiz hunting?

The 20-gauge is the absolute best choice for perdiz hunting. It provides a lethal payload for wild-flushing birds while remaining light enough to carry comfortably for miles across the Argentine pastures.

Can I use my dove hunting semi-automatic for perdiz?

Yes, you can use a 20-gauge semi-automatic, but it is heavier to carry and must be managed carefully for safety. Most upland hunters prefer double-barrels because they can be carried broken open safely while walking behind dogs.

What chokes should I use for perdiz in Argentina?

If using a double-barrel, configure it with an Improved Cylinder (IC) for your first shot and a Modified (M) for your second shot to handle both close flushes and longer follow-up attempts.

Best Shotguns for Perdiz Hunting in Argentina

Senior Field Editor

Roxy Gonzalez

Published: June 10, 2026

The ideal shotgun for perdiz hunting in Argentina is a fast-swinging, lightweight 20-gauge or 28-gauge Over-and-Under (O/U) or Side-by-Side (SxS). Because perdiz hunting involves walking several miles across the pampas and typically yields less than 20 shots per session, hunters should prioritize physical lightness and classic upland balance over the recoil-absorbing weight of high-volume semi-automatics.

Embracing the Classic Upland Tradition

Unlike the relentless mechanical beating of a dove roost, pursuing the Spotted Tinamou over pointing dogs is a gentleman's pursuit that honors traditional wingshooting aesthetics. A double-barrel shotgun is the undisputed king of the pampas. It allows the hunter to carry the weapon safely broken open during long walks behind the dogs, snapping the action shut only when the German Shorthair locks into a hard point.

Shotgun GaugeWeight ClassRecoil LevelBest Application for Perdiz12 Gauge7.5 - 8.0 lbsHeavyToo heavy for long walks; excessive payload.20 Gauge6.0 - 6.5 lbsModerateThe ultimate standard; perfect balance of weight and power.28 Gauge5.5 - 6.0 lbsVery LightIdeal for purists seeking a lightweight, fast-pointing gun.

Choke Configuration for Wild Flushes

The tactical advantage of a double-gun is the ability to run two different choke constrictions simultaneously. A perdiz flush is explosive and low. Set your bottom (first) barrel to an Improved Cylinder (IC) for the immediate, close-range rise at 20 yards. Set your top (second) barrel to a Modified (M) choke for the longer, 35-yard follow-up shot if the bird continues to push out across the alfalfa.

Tactical Field Note: If you are on a mixed-bag trip, do not carry your heavy 12-gauge waterfowl semi-automatic into the upland field. It will exhaust your arms within an hour. If you did not bring a dedicated upland gun, ask the lodge manager to rent you one of their lightweight 20-gauge double-guns specifically for the midday perdiz walk.

Internal Connections

Understand how the birds flush in Perdiz vs Quail: Upland Comparison.
Gear up for the walk in What to Wear Perdiz Hunting in Argentina.
Compare renting versus bringing gear in Rent Guns vs Bring Your Own Shotgun.

Legal & Regulatory Note Hunting regulations in Argentina are established and enforced at the provincial level and may change by season, species, area, quota, weather conditions, land access, and administrative resolution. Any reference to hunting availability, seasons, bag limits, pest-control species, firearms, ammunition, transportation, or export of birds should be understood as general destination information only. Hunters must always confirm current provincial regulations, licenses, permits, firearm requirements, landowner authorization, outfitter compliance, and transport/export restrictions before booking or participating in any hunt.