28 gauge is GREAT
I have a couple of 28 gauge shotguns and love them. One is a Charles Daly/Miroku O/U and the other is a model 12. I've used both to fill game bags on wild pheasants,quail,partridge,prairie chicken and dove. I've carried both afield from the Dakotas to Texas and never felt that I was "under-gunned." The previous posts which discuss the cost of ammo are spot on. You'll spend two to three times more for 28 ga. loads. IMO,the 28 ga. will do everything you require when hunting upland birds,provided you do your part as the shooter. If ammo costs are a factor,then I also agree with those who recommend a 20 ga. to you as a first shotgun. However,a 28 ga. shotgun is a joy to use,is very effective and,I believe, is a "must-have" for the upland bird hunter. Good luck and good hunting to you.
I have a couple of 28 gauge shotguns and love them. One is a Charles Daly/Miroku O/U and the other is a model 12. I've used both to fill game bags on wild pheasants,quail,partridge,prairie chicken and dove. I've carried both afield from the Dakotas to Texas and never felt that I was "under-gunned." The previous posts which discuss the cost of ammo are spot on. You'll spend two to three times more for 28 ga. loads. IMO,the 28 ga. will do everything you require when hunting upland birds,provided you do your part as the shooter. If ammo costs are a factor,then I also agree with those who recommend a 20 ga. to you as a first shotgun. However,a 28 ga. shotgun is a joy to use,is very effective and,I believe, is a "must-have" for the upland bird hunter. Good luck and good hunting to you.