Improved Modified - I can speak from experience and say that the 28 gauge with 3/4 oz. loads is more than enough gun for even late season ruffed grouse. The trick is to find a barrel / load combination that will deliver a decent pattern out to the range at which you normally shoot. My 687 with the IM choke tube will deliver a deadly pattern with the Remington Express Long Range shells, #6 shot, out to 35 yards. For some reason that same gun shoots patchy patterns with Kent loads in 7 1/2, even though those loads work well in a Franchi auto. With the 28 gauge some work at the patterning board is advisable.
The major advantage of the diminutive gauge is the light, fast handling guns that use the load. I see no advantage to using 28 gauge for game in a gun much over 6 lb. The explosive flush of a ruffed grouse demands a quick response and a lightweight double allows that.
For larger and longer range birds such as sharptail or pheasant my personal view is that a larger shell is warranted, but a good shot with a good load may disagree.
Anton
