That thing is a beauty! Pattern testing with different wads, powder charges and shot weights will show you what she likes. My smoothbores all seem to like heavy powder charge and more shot than one would think necessary.
Nice shooting. Looks like a great day. No pheasant near me, but I've been scaring a few grouse and woodcock when not occupied with geese. Keep after them!
Looks like another great day afield for man and dog! Rabbit stew is always a winner with my clan. For what it's worth, my grandfather swore that apple cider vinegar mixed into a glass of water twice a day cured gout.
Yup just one ball. I use the same patch as with .350" ball. I don't notice any difference in trajectory at the distances I shoot and the squirrels have never complained.
My .36 shoots great with 25 grains of 3f, .350" ball and .015" ticking. I also get good results with 000 buckshot in place of cast round ball. Either way I use mink oil or other animal grease for patch lube.
I've had good luck using bismuth shot for ducks and geese. You can order it from several reloading suppliers. I get mine from rotometals. Nontoxic is required here for waterfowl and hunting in waterfowl management areas for other game.
I like .36 and .54 that covers most of the bases. Well the .32 is good as well, oh and the .40 bucks the wind a little better. 45 is also a great caliber. Smoothbores are also a great choice........and that's why I am broke!