Before you embark on any hunt, having the proper equipment to complete the mission is absolutely paramount.
Corralling the correct equipment for some hunts can be more difficult than others; luckily, dove hunting is one of the easier hunts to prepare for. Shotguns of all shapes and sizes can theoretically be successful for a dove hunt, however, some options will excel above the rest. In this guide, we will explore some of those different shotgun options to help you select the right gun for your next dove hunt!
Shotgun Type
One of the first choices available to a potential gun purchaser is the type of shotgun. This list includes break-action, pump-action, and autoloader shotguns. Let’s touch on each option to give more detail:
Break-Action:
Arguably the simplest shotgun style of the bunch, break-action shotguns revolve around being able to “break” open the barrel, insert shells, and be ready to fire. This simplicity has propelled break-action shotguns to being the go-to staple for beginners just starting to explore the world of dove hunting. Within the sphere of break-action shotguns exist single-barrel options as well as double-barrel options, which can have the barrels next to each other or on top of one another. Due to the extra shot before reloading, the double-barrel break-action shotgun is typically preferred for dove hunting.
Pump-Action:
A pump-action shotgun distinguishes itself from break-action due to the ability pump-action has to load multiple shots, making reloading less frequent. Pump-action shotguns are also lightweight and notoriously reliable, which is a key reason why they remain extremely popular in the dove hunting scene and beyond. Just as the name suggests, pump-action shotguns work when you pull back the pumping mechanism, called a forearm. Pulling the forearm back, towards the user, ejects the previously used shell while the subsequent forward motion locks in a new shell making the gun ready to fire.
While close to ideal, pump-action shotguns can run into issues with a user error called “short-stroking”. In these instances, the hunter, for whatever reason, did not fully pump the forearm forward, which prevents the gun from firing. Sometimes this process can jam the gun, other times it’s a quicker fix. Hunters who have short arms or those in a rush to get off the next shot may run into short-stroking, though generally, the issues fall on the user and not the gun. Remember, pump-action shotguns are notorious for their reliability!
Autoloader:
The last broad category of shotgun utilized in dove hunting is the autoloader shotgun. This style builds off of the pump-action shotgun in that you have multiple rounds preloaded into the gun. However, instead of needing the pump action, an autoloader will simply load the next shot for you. There are a few different mechanisms that can achieve this goal. The ability to easily shoot multiple shots quickly with little input from the user has catapulted the autoloader shotgun to the top of shotgun popularity. The issue one may find with the autoloading option is that these guns will be heavier than the other two types discussed and have a greater chance of gun jams. Some hunters prefer to bring a pump-action alongside their autoloader should the autoloader get jammed in the field.
Picking the Right Load
Besides the shotgun action, selecting the proper ammunition for wingshoot hunting is key. Despite what some may think, you shouldn’t just use the smallest gauge available, as you may not find a tremendous amount of success taking down doves. Instead, we recommend a few options like 12 gauge 1 ounce of #7 shot or 12 gauge 1 ⅛ ounce of #8 shot. There are some other great 12 gauge shotgun shells on the market as well. In general, aiming for steel shot and high brass should result in success in the field.
Picking the Right Choke
Chokes are a great way to increase efficiency shooting at a distance while keeping a tighter spread, both factors that can increase your success in the field. There is no perfect answer for the proper choke required for dove shooting, but there are some important tips to keep in mind when selecting the choke. In general, the rule says that the shooter’s distance from the target will guide what type of choke is best. We find that cylinder choke (25 yards), an improved cylinder choke (30 yards), a modified choke (35 yards), and a full choke (40 yards) are the best options for dove hunting.
Some Great Gun Brands
There is no absolutely perfect shotgun for dove hunting. The choice of firearms will ultimately boil down to personal preference on the matter. With all the above factors still in mind, here are a series of brands, which have gained popularity from their reliability and ease of use:
Browning:
Browning has been a premier gun manufacturer since their founding in 1878. Browning designs their firearms with comfort and performance in mind by utilizing sleek frames and expert designs. Some specific Browning models that are particularly high performing in the world of dove hunting include the Browning Citori 725 Field shotgun and the Browning A5 Hunter shotgun.
Mossberg:
Mossberg has established itself as one of the most prestigious shotgun manufacturers on Earth. While notorious for their extremely reliable pump-action shotguns, they also have models designed for break-action and autoloading. The Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field shotgun is arguably their most renowned option due to the customization and reliability of the gun.
Remington:
Remington has prided itself on producing shotguns that are the “workhorse” for hunting and law enforcement alike. Their reliability is almost unparalleled among the competition. Remington comes prepared with a lot of different models and features including multiple models of break-action, pump-action, and autoloading. In particular, the Remington 1187 Sportsman shotgun has emerged as a fantastic option for dove hunting.
The Best Gun for Dove Hunting
While there isn’t a concrete answer for what the absolute best shotgun is for dove hunting, there are quite a few good options to pick from. Depending on the dimensions of the hunt you’re taking on and your personal preferences, there exists the ideal make and model for you! Now, equipped with information to guide you, you can explore different brands and models and find the best gun for your next dove hunt!
