Each of the weapons functions differently and requires a certain approach when hunting with it. Rifles are ideal for when you need to shoot accurately from distance as you can use the reticule on the left hand side to zoom in while moving around to aim. Shotguns can fire slightly more rapidly than a rifle and are effective when used for bodyshots on larger animals, if you do decide to use the shotgun you must expect animals like moose to charge you if you merely injure them. If you think you will need to shoot rapidly with power then you need to look at the assault rifles. Remember that regardless what weapon you select you can use the infrared button if you need to aim for a particular organ within the animals body.