Wow, i am surprised to see people say 4s and 6s for doves...that would blow them up...ive tried. I personally reload my own shells for doves...just works out nicely. I like 7 1/2 reclaimed shot (recycled) becaause its not exactly round and it speads for a nice pattern. I dont like buying the 7 1/2s at wal mart for 2.98 because they are only 7/8 ounce loads...if you have ever ripped on open...it seems like there is only 20 bbs in there...oh yeah...12 gauge