Mine throws a decent pattern out to 15 yards or so. It opens up a bit beyond that and there are a few holes because of the choke system but it will do the job. Have taken a few grouse and bunnies with it and would like to use it for turkey but MN has a 20 gauge minimum.
Like s4s4u, my 14" version is great at 15 yards, a bit more open but still good @ 20. I don't recall killing anything at 25 or more yards, but that doesn't mean it couldn't be done. I use Estate shot shells with number 6 shot. Its great for early season squirrels.
I've use mine on rabbits and squirrels. Pro-hunter 15" , my longest shot so far has been, 30yds on a hare. Running dogs and hand gunning bunnies is a lot of fun.
I had one that burned in my house fire. I used #5 shot and could take grey squirrels to 35 yds., fox squirrels to 25 yds. and pigeons (flying) off the roofs of barns (at farmers requests). It was a great gun.
Mine shoots pretty well. I have shot lots of grouse out to 25 yards and some out to 30. Mine patterns #6 shot tighter then #7 1/2's. I have taken several Turkeys out to 20 yards.
My preference for small game is a 22lr, but as stated, the T/C 45/410 will work if close enough. I've killed a few squirrels and a couple doves with mine, but it's main missions has been turkey hunting. So far I've killed 13 longbeards with my 14" 45/410. Here's a few results.....
My preferred weapon now is my 20ga. T/C Encore setup in a handgun configuration; still considered a shotgun with pistol grip.
How many noticed the rattlesnake in picture 4? lLooks like the .410 worked on Mr. no shoulders too!
Junebug,
I actually just feed the snake a sharp cedar limb. I didn't want to shoot again cause another bird was gobbling while I was get my gear together and preparing for pics. The snake is another story for another time.
I've used mine w/ a 10" barrel for the last two dove seasons and there is nothing more exciting then taking birds on the wing with a pistol. I use #9s for doves and 6's for rabbits. This is not a barrel that i'd sell or trade. I've never patterned mine so can't help you with that question.