Is a side by side 20ga an option for quail or dove?

I would suspect if you like it that would good.

Well, to be more specific, how does a side by side compare to an over/under (same gauge)for small upland birds?

Thanks

In a side by side the barrels fire left to right or right to left. lol jk A sxs would preform exactly as an over under depending on the chokes of the barrels. Or at least in my experience it has.

It is all a matter of choice. I hunt with a SXS 410 and SXS 28ga for Quail and love them both.

I shoot a 20 gauge at everything in the upland that is leagal to hunt. Here in Washington we have Valley Quail. I don't shoot dove. So I can tell you this; A 20 SxS is a great gun for quail. I have found 28 inch barrels will actually give you a quicker and smoother swing than a 26. Double triggers are better than a single. Quicker choke selection. Ejection is what ever you prefer either one works.

I set mine up this way for quail. 1st barrel Front trigger Improved Cylinder. 2nd barrel back trigger Light Modified. This set up gives me a good pattern close and far.

Shells I shoot regular 1200FPS Trap and Skeet loads. 7.5 or 8 shot your call which. They both will do the job

Like i said I shoot pheasant, chuker, quail and hun's all with my 20 no problem.

A twenty gauge is generally a good choice for dove and quail. Barrel configuration and action type are a matter of personal choice.