Dove Hunting Caliber Showdown: Comparing 12 Gauge, 20 Gauge, 16 Gauge, 28 Gauge, and .410 Bore
Find the perfect shotgun caliber for your next dove hunt.
Choosing the right shotgun caliber for dove hunting can feel like picking the perfect fishing lure—there are plenty of options, and everyone has their opinion. Whether you’re after the versatility of a 12 gauge or the finesse of a .410 bore, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each caliber is key to bagging more birds with fewer misses.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | 12 gauge | 20 gauge | 16 gauge | 28 gauge | .410 bore |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recoil How much kick you can expect when firing. |
Moderate | Light | Moderate | Very Light | Minimal |
| Effective Range The distance at which the caliber performs best for hitting doves. |
Long | Medium | Medium | Short to Medium | Short |
| Pellet Count The number of pellets in the shot, affecting coverage. |
High | Medium | Medium | Low | Very Low |
| Weight of Ammo How heavy the shells are to carry. |
Heavy | Moderate | Moderate | Light | Very Light |
| Ease of Handling How easy the shotgun is to maneuver and shoot. |
Moderate | Easy | Moderate | Very Easy | Extremely Easy |
12 gauge
The 12 gauge is the most popular shotgun caliber in the world, known for its versatility and power. It excels in dove hunting due to its long effective range and high pellet count, making it ideal for fast-moving targets.
Pros
- High pellet count for better coverage
- Long effective range
- Widely available ammo
Cons
- Moderate recoil
- Heavy ammo to carry
Interesting Fact: The 12 gauge is so common that nearly every shotgun manufacturer offers models chambered for it.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a reliable, all-around caliber that can handle doves and other game birds with ease.
20 gauge
The 20 gauge offers a lighter, more manageable option compared to the 12 gauge while still delivering solid performance. It’s a favorite among hunters who prioritize reduced recoil and ease of handling.
Pros
- Light recoil
- Medium pellet count
- Easier to handle
Cons
- Slightly shorter effective range than 12 gauge
- Less pellet coverage
Interesting Fact: The 20 gauge is often recommended for younger or smaller-framed hunters due to its lighter recoil.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a balance between power and comfort, especially for extended hunts.
16 gauge
The 16 gauge is a middle-ground option that offers the power of a 12 gauge with slightly less recoil. While not as popular as its counterparts, it remains a solid choice for dove hunting.
Pros
- Moderate recoil
- Good pellet count
- Versatile for various game birds
Cons
- Less common ammo availability
- Heavier than 20 gauge
Interesting Fact: The 16 gauge was once the go-to caliber for upland bird hunting before the 12 gauge took over.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a unique caliber that balances power and recoil for bird hunting.
28 gauge
The 28 gauge is a lightweight, nimble option that excels in close-range dove hunting. Its minimal recoil and ease of handling make it a favorite among experienced hunters looking for a challenge.
Pros
- Very light recoil
- Easy to handle
- Efficient for close-range hunting
Cons
- Limited pellet count
- Shorter effective range
Interesting Fact: Despite its smaller size, the 28 gauge is highly efficient and often praised for its surprising accuracy.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a lightweight option for quick, close-range shots on doves.
.410 bore
The .410 bore is the smallest shotgun caliber, offering minimal recoil and extreme ease of handling. It’s perfect for hunters who value precision and enjoy the challenge of hitting doves with a smaller pellet count.
Pros
- Minimal recoil
- Extremely lightweight
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Very low pellet count
- Short effective range
- Requires precise aim
Interesting Fact: The .410 bore is so small that some people mistakenly think it’s a rifle caliber instead of a shotgun.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a lightweight, low-recoil option and are confident in your shooting skills.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shotgun caliber for dove hunting depends on your preferences for recoil, range, and handling. Whether you opt for the versatile 12 gauge or the nimble .410 bore, each caliber offers unique advantages to help you succeed in the field.