Couple comments re both ends of the current discussion:
Zutz was an extremely prolific writer. And he was very broadly experienced when it came to shotguns. At one point or another, you can find him saying positive or negative things about every gauge out there . . . including the 24, for which he reloaded at one time. Praising the 16 makes sense, for the simple reason that it's a very useful gauge for all upland birds (and for that matter for ducks as well, back when we could shoot lead). Lots of writers also talk about the "magic" of the 28ga, which is far less versatile than the 16. I wouldn't condemn him for that, or for that matter wouldn't condemn any writer for expressing his likes and dislikes. Gene Hill, for example, didn't like the 20ga and made no bones about it. Yet according to survey data from LODGH (Loyal and Dedicated Grouse Hunters), it's the choice of half those who pursue ruffs, and significantly eclipses any other gauge in popularity.
Re using enough gun, Bell wasn't the only one to use a 7MM on large and dangerous game. Corbett shot most of his maneating tigers with the equivalent of a 7MM.
