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Choosing the Best Shotguns for Dove Hunting: A Comprehensive Guide

Dove hunting, a quintessential early-season wingshooting pursuit, demands a shotgun that balances lightweight maneuverability with adequate power and range. Selecting the right shotguns for dove hunting can significantly enhance your success and enjoyment in the field. This comprehensive guide explores the key considerations when choosing a shotgun for dove hunting, covering gauge selection, action types, choke options, and essential features to maximize your performance.

Understanding the Essentials of Dove Hunting Shotguns

Before diving into specific models, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental aspects that make a shotgun suitable for dove hunting. These include gauge, action, choke, and overall weight and balance. Each factor contributes to the gun’s effectiveness and the shooter’s comfort during long hunts.

Gauge Selection: 12, 20, or 28 Gauge?

The gauge of a shotgun refers to the bore diameter, and common choices for dove hunting include 12, 20, and 28 gauge.

12 Gauge: Known for its versatility and power, the 12 gauge offers the widest range of ammunition options. While it can be effective for doves, its heavier recoil may be fatiguing during extended hunts.
20 Gauge: A popular choice for dove hunting, the 20 gauge provides a good balance of power and manageable recoil. It’s lighter than the 12 gauge, making it easier to carry and swing, and offers sufficient shot density for doves at typical ranges.
28 Gauge: Often favored by experienced shooters, the 28 gauge offers a lighter recoil and is exceptionally fun to shoot. While it requires more precise aiming due to its smaller shot pattern, it can be highly effective in close to mid-range situations.

Action Types: Break-Action, Semi-Automatic, or Pump-Action?

The action type determines how the shotgun loads and ejects shells. Common actions include break-action (over-under or side-by-side), semi-automatic, and pump-action.

Break-Action: These shotguns are simple, reliable, and easy to clean. Over-under (O/U) shotguns are particularly popular for their single sighting plane and quick follow-up shots. Side-by-side shotguns offer a classic aesthetic but may require more practice to master.
Semi-Automatic: Semi-automatic shotguns cycle shells automatically after each shot, reducing recoil and allowing for faster follow-up shots. They are a popular choice for high-volume dove hunts, but require regular cleaning to maintain reliable function.
Pump-Action: Pump-action shotguns are known for their reliability and affordability. They require manual cycling of the action after each shot, which can be slower than semi-automatics, but they are versatile and can handle a wide range of ammunition.

Choke Selection: Modified, Improved Cylinder, or Skeet?

The choke constricts the shotgun’s bore at the muzzle, affecting the shot pattern. For dove hunting, common choke options include modified, improved cylinder, and skeet chokes.

Improved Cylinder: This choke provides a wider shot pattern, ideal for close-range shots (20-30 yards). It’s a good choice for hunting in areas with dense cover or when doves are flying close.
Modified: A versatile choke that provides a tighter pattern than improved cylinder, effective for mid-range shots (30-40 yards). It’s a good all-around choice for dove hunting in various conditions.
Skeet: Similar to improved cylinder, a skeet choke provides a very wide pattern, making it suitable for extremely close-range shots (under 20 yards). It’s often used in skeet shooting and can be effective in very tight hunting situations.

Top Shotgun Recommendations for Dove Hunting

Based on the above considerations, here are some top shotgun recommendations for dove hunting, catering to different preferences and budgets:

Benelli Montefeltro (20 Gauge)

The Benelli Montefeltro is a lightweight, inertia-driven semi-automatic shotgun that’s highly regarded for its reliability and smooth operation. The 20-gauge version is particularly well-suited for dove hunting due to its manageable recoil and excellent balance. Its slim profile and easy handling make it a joy to carry and shoot during long days in the field. [See also: Benelli Shotgun Reviews]

Beretta A400 Xplor Action (20 Gauge)

The Beretta A400 Xplor Action is another excellent semi-automatic option, known for its soft-shooting gas-operated system and versatile performance. The 20-gauge version offers a great balance of power and recoil reduction, making it comfortable to shoot even with heavier loads. Its advanced features and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious dove hunters. The A400 platform is known for its cycling speed and reliability in various conditions, a significant advantage when doves are plentiful and fast-moving.

Browning Citori (20 Gauge)

The Browning Citori is a classic over-under shotgun renowned for its quality craftsmanship and reliable performance. The 20-gauge version is a popular choice for dove hunting, offering a smooth swing and excellent balance. Its timeless design and durable construction make it a shotgun that can be passed down through generations. The Citori’s reputation for quality makes it a favorite amongst seasoned shooters. [See also: Over-Under Shotgun Comparison]

CZ-USA Redhead Premier (20 Gauge)

The CZ-USA Redhead Premier is a more affordable over-under option that still delivers excellent performance. It features a Turkish walnut stock and forend, along with chrome-lined barrels and a durable action. The 20-gauge version is well-suited for dove hunting, offering a good balance of weight and recoil. It’s a great choice for hunters looking for a quality over-under without breaking the bank. The Redhead Premier provides an excellent entry point into the world of over-under shotguns.

Remington 870 (20 Gauge)

The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun known for its reliability and affordability. The 20-gauge version is a versatile choice for dove hunting, offering a manageable recoil and the ability to handle a wide range of ammunition. Its simple design and durable construction make it a shotgun that can withstand years of use. The 870 is a staple in the shotgun world and a reliable choice for any hunter. [See also: Pump-Action Shotgun Maintenance]

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing

Beyond the specific models, several factors should influence your final decision when selecting shotguns for dove hunting.

Fit and Comfort

A shotgun that fits you properly is essential for accurate shooting and comfortable handling. Consider the length of pull, comb height, and overall balance of the gun. Ideally, you should be able to mount the shotgun quickly and naturally, with your eye aligning properly with the sights. A gun that doesn’t fit well can lead to poor shooting form and increased recoil. Try different shotguns at a shooting range or gun store to find one that feels comfortable and natural in your hands.

Weight and Balance

Dove hunting often involves long days in the field, so a lightweight shotgun is crucial to minimize fatigue. Balance is also important, as a well-balanced gun will swing smoothly and naturally. A shotgun that’s too heavy or unbalanced can be difficult to control and lead to inconsistent shots. Consider the overall weight and balance of the shotgun when making your selection. A lighter gun will be easier to carry and swing, while a well-balanced gun will point more naturally.

Budget

Shotguns range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. While it’s tempting to buy the most expensive shotgun on the market, it’s not always necessary to spend a fortune to get a reliable and effective dove hunting gun. There are many excellent shotguns available at reasonable prices. Consider your budget and prioritize the features that are most important to you. Remember that you’ll also need to factor in the cost of ammunition and other accessories.

Ammunition

The type of ammunition you use can also affect your success when dove hunting. Common loads for doves include #7.5 and #8 shot, with shot sizes depending on the range and conditions. Consider the availability and cost of ammunition when choosing a gauge. While 12-gauge ammunition is generally more readily available and less expensive, 20-gauge and 28-gauge ammunition can be just as effective for doves with proper shot selection. Experiment with different loads to find what works best for your shotgun and shooting style.

Tips for Improving Your Dove Hunting Skills

Once you’ve selected the right shotguns for dove hunting, it’s important to practice and develop your shooting skills. Here are some tips to help you improve your dove hunting success:

Practice Your Swing: Dove hunting often involves fast-moving targets, so it’s important to develop a smooth and consistent swing. Practice mounting your shotgun and swinging on imaginary targets to improve your muscle memory.
Lead Your Target: Doves are fast flyers, so you’ll need to lead your target to compensate for their speed. The amount of lead will vary depending on the range and angle of the shot. Practice leading your target at a shooting range to develop a feel for the proper amount of lead.
Pattern Your Shotgun: Patterning your shotgun involves shooting at a target at a known distance to see how the shot spreads. This will help you determine the effective range of your shotgun and the best choke for different situations.
Practice Gun Safety: Always practice safe gun handling techniques, including keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, treating every gun as if it’s loaded, and being aware of your surroundings.

Conclusion

Choosing the right shotguns for dove hunting is crucial for maximizing your success and enjoyment in the field. Consider the gauge, action, choke, fit, weight, and budget when making your selection. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can choose a shotgun that’s well-suited for your needs and preferences, and improve your dove hunting skills for years to come. Remember to prioritize safety and practice regularly to become a more confident and effective shooter. With the right shotgun for dove hunting and some practice, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying many successful dove hunts.