What is the best 12 gauge round for squirrel? Is the .410 caliber a better choice for squirrel? Thanks!

For Squirrel, any birdshot will do, but you might be better with a little heavier shot. Say 6 or 6 1/2. If you have a .410 already, then yes, it is a better choice IMO. Same advice on shot size there.

#6 game loads. The 410 will do a lot less meat damage.

I'd go with the .410

I prefer #6 shot. Makes it easier to pick out the shot when you skin them. I would also choose a 20 gauge over a .410, simply for economic and availability reasons. 20 gauge shells are cheaper and easier to find.

#6 shot in 20 gauge. As a new hunter you will probably have some challenges getting close and the 20 gauge gives you more effective killing distance than a .410.

On the .410, you'd have to pattern it to make sure it groups okay at the range you figure the squirrels are.

#6

#6 is great for squirrels & rabbits.

00

Double 00

#6 game load. Yes a 410 or 20ga will do less damage.

Skins and De-Bones in 1 shot.

.22 lr

#4 or #6

First thing I ever hunted was squirrel. I was using a single shot .410 with #4 shot. Brought home a lot of food at 12 years old with that gun. Still hangs on the wall to this day.

My preferred method

That's what i used single shot break over...

This and head shot only

I began my first Squirrel hunt with a 12 gauge Smith & Wesson 1000 semi-auto. It worked great. As time pressed on I decided to try a .410 & it was a no-go. Tried a 20 ga & it was a no-go.

Hunting in East Texas amongst the 85 ft Pine trees required a hi-brass load to break thru the foliage. I settled on #5 shot which Remington now markets as Pheasant loads. I have never been disappointed with #5's in my 12 ga.

Sold the S&W & pulled my 1965 Browning Auto 5 from its box in Oct 2018. I love that gun!!