Well, I dunno for sure, but my size 11 boots are dang near a foot each, and it isn't a big trick to keep a foot of space in between 'em. So 5 paces equals about 15 yards, plus or minus whatever fraction of an inch is left off 12 inches from size 11 Red Wings, or, 45 feet. I used to be 5' 11", but, a few back injuries (compression fracture, ruptured discs) have left me about 5' 10" in the morning, and 5' 9" after a shift of work. 'Gettin old 'ain't for sissys!
Anyway, the 25 yard pattern on most of my guns will leave very little room for error on any type of bird. Error in either way, and a blasted bird in hand is one I would rather have missed. Which, is why I have missed opening day of grouse season, for at least the past 20 seasons.
Make my grouse hunting latter in the season, thank you kindly.
Best,
Ted
