Dove loads
 

what size sheels and shot do you guys use to hunt doves. also i have been told to use everything from a 12 with a 3 in shell to a .410 so what do you think

RE: Dove loads
 

12 GA. 6 shot or .410 4 or 6 shot

RE: Dove loads
 

Size 6 for sure. I would say Size 4 but i usually use 6

RE: Dove loads
 

20 ga with #8 or #9 shot.

RE: Dove loads
 

There is absolutely no need for 3" shells for dove. Talk about overkill and a sore shoulder.
Typical loads are 7 1/2 or #8's in 20 or 12 ga. I can't really speak on a 410 since I haven't used one for dove, but I've seen several that do and they kill em just as dead.

[Deleted]
 

[Deleted by Admins]

RE: Dove loads
 

12 ga sellier & bellot, 1 1/8 oz #7.5 shot, 3.5 drams. they're supposed to go at 1400 fps but i think it's closer to 1350. $40/case.

RE: Dove loads
 

IndyHunter hit it on the head!

You DO NOT need 3" shells. You DO NOT need #5 or #6 shot!

No matter the gauge, 7 1/2, 8 or 9 shot will work very well. You must practice shooting to get these birds.

If you need big shot to kill doves, quit hunting them or go to the range!

OhioDuckHunter
Sure, Clean shots avoid PETA attacks!

RE: Dove loads
 

i do alot of dove hunting. i agree that a 3 inch is way to much. i reload myself and i have found that 8or9 shot 1 1/8 ounce works great. if your shots will be longer range (about 35-40 plus yards) than the 7 1/2 works out great with the slower speed loads (the "cheap loads"). but i use 9's at 1400 plus fps and i have no problem dropping the birds outside of 40 yards. if it is windy i use the 8's. but 7 1/2 and 8 should work fine with the slower store bought ammo.

i also agree that they are difficult to hit so spend some time at the range first. i shoot skeet, trap, and sporting clays and feel that skeet prepares you the best for doves. but any moving target shooting will help.

just my imput. good luck:eek:

RE: Dove loads
 

I use 2/3" #8; Good enough to shoot 102 dove last year for me!