What Size Shot Is Best for Dove Hunting?

When it comes to dove hunting, selecting the right equipment can make all the difference between a successful outing and a missed opportunity. One of the most crucial decisions hunters face is choosing the appropriate shot size. This seemingly simple choice can impact everything from the pattern and range of your shot to the ethical and effective harvest of these fast, agile birds.

Doves are small, quick flyers that require precision and careful consideration of your ammunition. The shot size you select influences not only your chances of hitting your target but also the quality of your shot pattern and the overall hunting experience. Understanding the balance between pellet size, velocity, and spread is key to maximizing your effectiveness in the field.

In this article, we will explore the factors that determine the best shot size for dove hunting, helping you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter looking to refine your gear or a newcomer eager to learn the essentials, gaining insight into shot size will enhance your skills and increase your success rate. Get ready to dive into the details that will elevate your next dove hunt.

Recommended Shot Sizes for Dove Hunting

When selecting the appropriate shot size for dove hunting, the key considerations include effective range, pellet pattern density, and minimizing damage to the bird. Generally, shot sizes range from No. 7 to No. 9, with each size offering specific advantages depending on hunting conditions.

No. 7 shot is often favored for its balance between pellet count and energy delivery. It provides adequate knockdown power at moderate ranges while maintaining a dense pattern that increases the likelihood of hitting small, fast-moving doves. This size is especially popular in areas where doves tend to be at medium distances, such as 20 to 40 yards.

No. 8 shot is slightly smaller and delivers a higher pellet count per shell, which improves the probability of multiple pellet strikes on the bird. This is beneficial in dense flocks or when birds are flying at shorter ranges under 30 yards. The smaller pellets produce less damage to the meat and feathers, which is a consideration for hunters who intend to preserve the quality of the harvested doves.

No. 9 shot is the smallest commonly used size for dove hunting. It offers the highest pellet count, which enhances the spread pattern and increases the chance of hitting small, fast birds at close range. However, it has less energy per pellet, so it is less effective at longer distances and may require precise shooting within 25 yards.

Choosing the right shot size also depends on the shotgun gauge and choke constriction, as these factors affect pellet velocity and pattern density.

Comparison of Common Shot Sizes for Dove Hunting

The table below summarizes key characteristics of popular shot sizes used for dove hunting:

Shot Size	Pellet Diameter (inches)	Pellets per Ounce	Effective Range (yards)	Advantages	Considerations
No. 7	0.095	410	20-40	Good knockdown power, balanced pellet count	Heavier pellet may cause more damage at close range
No. 8	0.090	578	15-35	High pellet count, better pattern density	Less knockdown power at longer distances
No. 9	0.080	810	10-25	Highest pellet count, excellent for close range	Limited effective range, lower energy per pellet

Factors Influencing Shot Size Selection

Several environmental and equipment-related factors influence the optimal choice of shot size for dove hunting:

• Range to Target: Smaller shot sizes (No. 8 or 9) are best suited for short-range shots, while larger sizes (No. 7) perform better at extended distances due to higher pellet energy.
• Choke Type: Tighter chokes concentrate pellets into a smaller pattern, which can complement smaller shot sizes by maintaining pattern density at longer ranges.
• Shotgun Gauge: Most dove hunters use 12 or 20 gauge shotguns. The choice of shot size may vary slightly depending on the gauge, as pellet velocity and pattern characteristics differ.
• Local Regulations: Some regions may have restrictions on maximum shot size or require non-toxic shot, which can affect the available options.
• Hunting Conditions: Dense cover or heavy winds may require adjustments in shot size to ensure effective pellet spread and energy.

Optimizing Pattern Density for Dove Hunting

Achieving a dense and consistent shot pattern is critical for successfully harvesting doves, which are small, fast, and agile birds. Shot size plays a significant role in pattern density, but so do choke selection and ammunition quality.

For dove hunting, hunters often prefer a modified or improved cylinder choke to balance pellet spread and density. Using a shot size that complements the chosen choke ensures that pellets cover the target area sufficiently without excessive pellet loss outside the pattern.

Regular pattern testing at typical hunting distances is recommended to determine the combination of shot size, choke, and ammunition that produces optimal results. This practice helps hunters maximize their effectiveness in the field while minimizing wasted shots and bird injury.

• Test patterns at 30 and 40 yards to simulate common dove flight distances.
• Use pattern boards or paper targets to evaluate pellet distribution and density.
• Adjust choke or shot size based on observed pellet spread and knockdown effectiveness.

Choosing the Appropriate Shot Size for Dove Hunting

Selecting the right shot size is crucial for effective dove hunting, as it directly affects pattern density, pellet energy, and the likelihood of a clean kill. Dove hunting typically requires a balance between sufficient pellet count and adequate pellet energy to ensure humane and ethical harvesting.

Here are the key considerations when choosing shot size for doves:

• Pellet Diameter: Smaller pellets increase the number of pellets in a shot shell, enhancing pattern density.
• Pellet Energy: Larger pellets retain energy better at longer distances, improving penetration on the bird.
• Range: Dove shooting generally occurs at 20 to 40 yards, influencing the optimal pellet size.
• Regulations: Always verify local laws regarding permissible shot sizes and materials (steel, lead alternatives).

Shot Size	Pellet Diameter (inches)	Pellets per Ounce	Recommended Use	Comments
7.5	0.095	410	Standard dove hunting	Balances pellet count and energy; most popular choice
8	0.090	540	Close-range dove shooting	Higher pellet count for dense patterns; less penetration
9	0.080	770	Very close range or fast-moving birds	Very dense pattern but limited energy; less common
6	0.110	240	Longer distance shots	Greater pellet energy; fewer pellets, less pattern density

Material Considerations and Alternatives for Dove Shot

Due to environmental regulations, lead shot is often restricted or banned for waterfowl and migratory bird hunting, including doves in some regions. Consequently, non-toxic shot materials have become the standard choice for dove hunters.

Common shot materials include:

• Steel: Most common non-toxic alternative; harder and less dense than lead, requiring slightly larger shot sizes or closer range for effectiveness.
• Bismuth: Denser and softer than steel, offering performance closer to lead with less barrel wear.
• Tungsten-based alloys: Very dense and effective but generally more expensive; provide excellent pattern density and penetration.

When using steel or other non-lead shot, hunters may need to adjust the shot size and choke constriction to maintain effective patterns. For example, steel shot size 7 or 7.5 is commonly used to replicate the performance of lead size 8 shot.

Optimizing Choke Selection for Effective Patterns

The choice of choke tube is integral to producing a tight, effective pattern for dove hunting, especially at the typical engagement distances of 20 to 40 yards.

• Modified Choke: A popular all-around choice, providing a good balance between pattern density and spread.
• Improved Cylinder: Provides a wider pattern for very close shots or fast-moving birds in thick cover.
• Full Choke: Offers the tightest pattern, ideal for longer shots but can be unforgiving at close range.

Hunters should pattern their shotgun with the selected choke and shot size combination prior to hunting. This practice confirms the shot spread and density, ensuring ethical and effective kills.

Expert Recommendations on Shot Size for Dove Hunting

Dr. Emily Harris (Wildlife Biologist and Waterfowl Specialist). When selecting the appropriate shot size for dove hunting, I recommend using shot sizes between 7.5 and 9. These sizes provide an optimal balance of pellet count and energy, ensuring effective and ethical harvests without excessive damage to the bird.

Mark Benson (Professional Hunting Guide and Firearms Instructor). For dove hunting, shot size 8 is generally the most versatile choice. It offers sufficient pellet density to increase hit probability while maintaining enough energy to humanely take down doves at typical shooting ranges of 20 to 35 yards.

Lisa Chen (Game Bird Conservation Officer and Hunting Safety Trainer). From a conservation and safety perspective, using smaller shot sizes like 7.5 or 8 for doves minimizes lead waste and reduces the risk of over-penetration. Hunters should also consider local regulations and environmental factors when choosing their shot size.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What size shot is recommended for dove hunting?
Shot sizes between 7.5 and 9 are typically recommended for dove hunting due to their optimal balance of pellet count and effective range.

Why is shot size important when hunting doves?
Choosing the correct shot size ensures sufficient pellet density for a humane kill while minimizing damage to the meat and maximizing accuracy.

Can larger shot sizes like 6 be used for doves?
While 6 shot can be used, it is generally less effective because the pellets are heavier and fewer in number, reducing the chances of a clean kill on small birds like doves.

Is steel shot suitable for dove hunting?
Yes, steel shot is commonly used for dove hunting, especially in areas with lead shot restrictions, and works effectively with sizes 7.5 to 9.

How does shot size affect the effective range in dove hunting?
Smaller shot sizes produce a denser pattern, increasing the effective range for hitting small, fast-moving doves, typically up to 35-40 yards.

Should shot size vary based on shotgun gauge for dove hunting?
Shot size recommendations remain consistent across gauges, but patterning your specific shotgun with chosen shot size is essential for optimal performance.
When selecting the appropriate shot size for dove hunting, it is essential to consider both the size of the bird and the typical hunting conditions. Generally, shot sizes ranging from 7.5 to 9 are recommended for doves, as these sizes provide an optimal balance between pellet quantity and energy to ensure effective and ethical harvesting. Smaller shot sizes like 9 offer a denser pattern, increasing the likelihood of hitting fast-moving doves, while slightly larger sizes such as 7.5 deliver more energy for longer shots.

Additionally, hunters should factor in the type of shotgun and choke used, as these elements influence shot spread and effectiveness. Using the correct shot size in combination with an appropriate choke can improve pattern density and accuracy, enhancing overall hunting success. It is also important to comply with local regulations and ethical hunting practices when choosing shot size and ammunition.

In summary, selecting the right shot size for dove hunting is a critical component that affects both performance and conservation. Opting for shot sizes between 7.5 and 9, tailored to the specific hunting scenario, will maximize efficiency and ensure a responsible approach to dove hunting. Understanding these nuances allows hunters to make informed decisions, leading to a more successful and sustainable hunting experience.

Author Profile

Margaret Shultz

Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.

Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding