Grey Lynx, we were actually talking about that in the garage the other night. The fact is that a shotgun isn't actually a bad choice for big game regardless of the zone restrictions in place. Sure the primitive weapons season in Strathcona makes it go to choice, but in general not a bad choice either.
We have put an effort into making our rifled barreled shotguns shoot as well as possible with the right sabot ammo and decent bdc scopes. They are completely capable of making accurate shots to 175 or more yards. We spend the time to get them sighted in properly so the bdc scopes are dead on up to 200 yards. Trust me, the Hornady 300 gr SST slugs in 12 gauge 2 3/4" are the best performance and accuracy. The ballistics have a 9" trajectory profile out to 200 yards, that is very manageable. Plenty of energy for an ethical kill at the ranges intended. Something about a 300 grain bullet in 50 cal that tends to have some impressive knock down power. I am sure the muzzle loader guys will agree as well. The slug does less meat damage on a moose shot in the shoulder than my .270 130 gr, but knocks it down better I would say. Slower bigger bullet has some merit it seems.
Another thing is that a pump action is an efficient easy to use action making follow up shots a breeze. In a bush hunting situation where your shots would be limited range, I would have no reservations about carrying my 12 gauge Maverick as a go to option. It is indeed a very practical tool.
