Choosing the type of firearm to hunt with is one of the first and most important choices you'll make as a hunter. The choice over whether a shotgun is better than a rifle (and vice versa) has been debated repeatedly, but why not add one more opinion into the mix?
I will give you my recommendation, compare each firearm's pros and cons, and hopefully assist you in making your decision.
For simplicity purposes, when I use the word SHOTGUN, I will encompass many versions of this gun, such as the .410, 12 gauge, and 20 gauge. On the flip side, when I reference RIFLES, I refer to the basics such as powerful air rifles, .22's, and .177's.
RIFLES
PRO'S:
-quieter - may not spook nearby squirrels
-longer range for projectile
-less recoil
-more accurate shots
-preserves meat better with accurate shooting (head/shoulder shots)
-no shot pellets to pick out of the meat
-can add a scope
-usually better for "sit and wait" hunters
-usually lighter to carry than shotguns
-ammo is usually cheaper to buy
-easier to carry plenty of ammo due to the small size
-great practice for other game shooting (deer, etc.)
CON'S:
-larger bullet trajectory - can travel a mile or more if not obstructed (be careful in areas if you don't know what's around you)
-decreased accuracy if you must shoot quickly or at a moving target (squirrels are notorious for being twitchy and energetic)
-have to "zero" and maintain scope (if utilized)
-more chalking to shoot and miss more often
-Use the information above to help you decide which of the two types would work best for you.
Shotguns
PRO'S:
-less accuracy required to hit the target
-easier to hit moving targets
-less bullet trajectory (this equates to safer hunting if missing a target when hunting in smaller areas or where the terrain is unknown, i.e., are there houses close by, a road over that hill, etc.)
-better suited to aggressive hunters or hunters that like to move around from place to place or stalk hunt
-quicker and easier shot picture acquiring due to larger shot picture
-can be more effective in heavy cover when leaves hide the squirrels more
CON'S:
-likely to get shot pellets in the meat
-can destroy the meat and fur (in case there is interest in drying or tanning the hide)
-not scope friendly
-can be heavier to carry than a rifle
-ammo cost is usually greater
-louder report - potentially scarring away nearby squirrels
-more recoil
OUR RECOMMENDATION:
If you can't decide between a Squirrel Shotgun or a Squirrel Rifle, why not have both worlds' best? There are various designs on the market that have both to offer. For example, a .420/ .22 model allows you to switch between two to allow you to pick a squirrel out of a tree or switch over to hit it on the run.
More Useful Articles:
How To Prepared Successful Hunters In Season
Benefits To Reloading Your Own Ammo