Best Dove Load 20 Gauge – Top 5 Picks & Review

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Have you ever stood in the shotgun shell aisle, feeling a little lost when it comes to choosing the perfect load for dove season? It’s a common feeling! Dove hunting is a blast, but picking the right ammunition for your 20-gauge shotgun can feel like a puzzle. You want shells that fly true, hit hard, and help you bring home your limit, but there are so many choices!

The wrong load can mean missed opportunities or frustrating shots. You might wonder if you need a faster shell, a heavier payload, or a different shot size. These choices matter for accuracy and effectiveness. This is where understanding your Dove Load 20 Gauge really shines. It can make the difference between a great day in the field and a day wishing for better results.

In this post, we’ll break down the world of 20-gauge dove loads. We’ll explore what makes a good dove load and help you understand the options. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll feel much more confident about the shells you pick for your next hunt. Let’s dive in and find the perfect match for your 20-gauge!

Our Top 5 Dove Load 20 Gauge Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Dove Load 20 Gauge Detailed Reviews

1. Carlsons Choke Tubes 20 Gauge for Winchester – Browning Inv – Moss 500 [ Light Modified

Carlsons Choke Tubes 20 Gauge for Winchester - Browning Inv - Moss 500 [ Light Modified | 0.605 Diameter ] Blued Steel | White Wing Dove Choke Tube | Made in USA

Rating: 9.4/10

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge White Wing Dove choke tube is a top-notch accessory for your shotgun. It’s designed specifically for Winchester, Browning Invector, and Mossberg 500 shotguns. This choke tube is made from strong blued steel and offers a Light Modified constriction with a 0.605-inch diameter. This means it helps your shots spread out just right for hunting doves.

What We Like:

  • It’s built with over 30 years of patterning and testing experience. Carlson’s uses special software to analyze thousands of shot and choke combinations. This helps them create accurate choke tubes.
  • The choke tube is made from high-quality 17-4 blued steel. This material is tough and built to last.
  • It’s designed to give you the best patterns for dove hunting. The Light Modified constriction and 0.605 diameter are perfect for this.
  • Carlson’s offers a lifetime warranty. You can hunt with confidence knowing your choke tube is protected.
  • This choke tube is proudly made in the USA.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While designed for specific shotguns, users with other compatible models might need to double-check fitment.
  • The specific “White Wing Dove” branding might lead some to believe it’s only for that type of bird, though it performs excellently for other small game.

This choke tube is a smart investment for any serious dove hunter. It combines expert design with durable American craftsmanship to improve your shooting performance.

2. Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge for Browning Invector Plus [ Improved Modified

Rating: 8.8/10

Elevate your dove hunting game with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge for Browning Invector Plus. This Improved Modified choke tube, with a 0.605 diameter, is crafted from durable blued steel and proudly made in the USA. It’s specifically designed to help you hit more white wing doves.

What We Like:

  • Years of Expertise: Carlson’s brings over 30 years of experience to choke tube design. They have studied thousands of load and choke combinations to create accurate aiming tools.
  • Quality Materials: Made from high-quality blued steel, this choke tube is built to last and perform well for dove hunters.
  • Optimized Performance: The Improved Modified constriction and 0.605 diameter are engineered for excellent shot patterns, giving you a better chance at hitting your target.
  • Lifetime Protection: Carlson’s backs this choke tube with a lifetime warranty, so you can hunt with confidence.
  • American Made: Feel good knowing this choke tube is manufactured right here in the United States.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Specific Application: While excellent for dove hunting, this choke might not be the best choice for all types of waterfowl or game.
  • Limited Information on Specific Pattern Testing: While they mention extensive testing, specific pattern results for this exact choke with common dove loads aren’t detailed.

This choke tube is a fantastic choice for any serious dove hunter. It combines expert design with durable construction for reliable performance in the field.

3. Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge for Remington [ Light Modified

Rating: 9.1/10

Looking to improve your shotgun’s performance for dove hunting? Carlson’s Choke Tubes offers a fantastic option with their 20 Gauge White Wing Dove choke for Remington shotguns. This choke tube is specifically designed to help you hit more targets, making your hunting trips more successful and enjoyable. It’s built with quality and precision in mind, so you can trust it to perform when you need it most.

What We Like:

  • Decades of Expertise: Carlson’s has over 30 years of experience. They use special software to test many shotgun shell and choke combinations. This means they know how to make chokes that shoot accurately.
  • Top-Notch Materials: This choke tube is made from strong 17-4 Blued Steel. It’s built to last and designed to give great results for dove hunters.
  • Excellent Performance: The Light Modified constriction and 0.605 diameter are perfect for white wing doves. This choke helps create tighter, more consistent shot patterns.
  • Built to Last: Carlson’s stands behind its products with a lifetime warranty. You can hunt with confidence, knowing your choke is covered.
  • Proudly American Made: Every Carlson’s Choke Tube is made right here in the USA. This means quality craftsmanship and support for American jobs.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Limited Shotgun Compatibility: This specific choke tube is designed for Remington shotguns only. If you have a different brand of shotgun, this choke won’t fit.
  • Specific Hunting Focus: While excellent for dove, its “White Wing Dove” designation might suggest it’s not the best all-around choice for other types of bird hunting or clay sports.

Overall, if you own a Remington 20 gauge and hunt white wing doves, this Carlson’s choke tube is an excellent investment. It combines American-made quality with proven performance to help you bag more birds.

4. Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge for Winchester – Browning Inv – Moss 500 [ Improved Modified

Rating: 8.5/10

Elevate your dove hunting game with Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge for Winchester, Browning Invincible, and Mossberg 500 shotguns. This White Wing Dove choke tube is designed for accuracy and performance. It’s made from tough blued steel and built right here in the USA. This choke tube features an Improved Modified constriction with a 0.595 diameter, perfect for those fast-flying white wings.

What We Like:

  • Extensive Patterning Data: Carlson’s uses over 30 years of experience and special software to test thousands of load and choke combinations. This means they create choke tubes that deliver the best, most accurate patterns for hunters.
  • High-Quality Construction: The White Wing Dove choke tube is made from durable 17-4 blued steel. It’s built to last and perform exceptionally well for dove hunting.
  • Optimized for Performance: The Improved Modified constriction (0.595 diameter) is specifically designed to give you excellent patterns for white wing doves.
  • Lifetime Warranty: Carlson’s stands behind their products with a lifetime warranty. You can hunt with confidence knowing your choke tube is covered.
  • Proudly Made in the USA: Every Carlson’s Choke Tube is manufactured in the United States, ensuring quality and supporting American jobs.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Specific Application: While excellent for dove hunting, this choke tube is specialized. Hunters looking for versatile chokes for various game might need to consider other options.
  • Fitment Verification: Always double-check that this choke tube is compatible with your specific 20-gauge Winchester, Browning Invincible, or Mossberg 500 model before purchasing.

This Carlson’s White Wing Dove choke tube is a fantastic investment for any serious dove hunter. It combines expert design with top-notch manufacturing for dependable results in the field.

5. Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Modified

Rating: 9.1/10

Unlock your Remington 20 gauge’s full potential with Carlson’s Choke Tubes’ White Wing Dove choke. Designed specifically for dove hunting, this choke tube is built for accuracy and performance. Its improved modified constriction and 0.595 diameter help you put more birds in the bag.

    What We Like:

  • Built on 30 years of research and data for the best patterns.
  • Made from high-quality blued steel for lasting durability.
  • Improved Modified constriction (0.595 diameter) is great for dove hunting.
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
  • Proudly made in the USA.
    What Could Be Improved:

  • May be a bit specialized for hunters who target a wide variety of game.

This choke tube is a fantastic investment for any serious dove hunter. Its American-made quality and proven performance will help you have more successful hunts.

Choosing Your Perfect Dove Load: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re ready to hit the dove fields! Picking the right shotgun shells, or “dove loads,” makes a big difference in your success and enjoyment. This guide will help you understand what to look for so you can make a smart choice.

1. Key Features to Look For

When you’re standing in front of a wall of shotgun shells, it can be a lot. Here’s what matters most for dove hunting:

  • Shot Size: This is super important. For doves, you usually want smaller shot. The most common sizes are #7.5, #8, and #9. Smaller shot means you get more pellets in your shotgun’s spread. More pellets mean a better chance of hitting your target. #7.5 is a great all-around choice. #8 is also very popular. #9 is best for very close shots.
  • Shell Length: Dove loads come in different lengths, usually 2 ¾ inches. This is the standard size for most shotguns and works perfectly for doves. You don’t need longer shells for this type of hunting.
  • Shot Material: Most dove loads use lead shot. Lead is soft and deforms when it hits a bird, creating a good pattern. Some areas might have rules about lead shot, so always check local regulations. If lead is not allowed, you’ll look for non-toxic alternatives like steel. However, steel shot is harder and doesn’t deform as much, so you might need to adjust your aim or use larger shot sizes.
  • Muzzle Velocity: This tells you how fast the shot leaves the barrel. Faster shells hit harder and have a flatter trajectory, meaning you don’t have to aim as high for longer shots. However, very fast shells can sometimes be harder to control for new shooters.

2. Important Materials

The materials in your shotgun shells affect how they perform.

  • Shot Pellets: As mentioned, lead is the most common and effective material for dove hunting. It’s dense and readily available. If you need to use non-toxic shot, steel is the most common alternative. Other non-toxic options exist, but they can be more expensive.
  • Wad: The wad is a plastic sleeve that separates the powder from the shot. It also helps seal the barrel when the shell is fired, pushing the shot out cleanly. A good wad design helps create a tight, consistent pattern.
  • Powder: This is what makes the shell go bang! Different powders burn at different rates, affecting the speed and recoil of the shell. Manufacturers carefully select powders to create a balanced load.
  • Hull: This is the outer casing of the shell, usually made of plastic. It holds everything together.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Several things make a dove load great or not so great.

Factors That Improve Quality:
  • Consistent Shot Size: When all the pellets in a shell are the same size, your pattern will be more predictable.
  • Good Wad Design: A well-designed wad helps your shots fly straight and spread out nicely.
  • Reliable Ignition: You want every shell to fire when you pull the trigger. High-quality primers ensure this.
  • Properly Mixed Powder: The right amount and type of powder create a smooth, powerful shot.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
  • Inconsistent Pellets: If some pellets are too big or too small, your pattern will be uneven.
  • Poor Wad Function: A bad wad can cause the shot to fly erratically.
  • Damp Powder: If shells get wet, the powder can be ruined, and they might not fire.
  • Damaged Hulls: Cracks or dents in the shell can cause problems.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

How a dove load feels and performs in your hands matters.

  • Recoil: This is the kick you feel when you shoot. Loads with less powder or lighter shot will have less recoil. This is great for new shooters or anyone who wants a more comfortable experience.
  • Pattern: This refers to how the shot spreads out. A good pattern is tight enough to hit the bird but spreads wide enough to give you a good chance. You want a pattern that’s even, with no big holes.
  • Cost: Dove loads vary in price. While you don’t need the most expensive shells, very cheap ones might not perform as well. Finding a good balance between price and quality is key.

The best use case for these loads is, of course, dove hunting. They are designed for the typical ranges and speeds of dove flight. They work well in most 20-gauge shotguns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best shot size for dove hunting?

A: For most dove hunting, shot sizes #7.5, #8, or #9 are best. #7.5 is a great all-around choice. #8 is also very popular. #9 is good for very close shots.

Q: Can I use 12-gauge shells in a 20-gauge shotgun?

A: No. You can only use shells that are the correct gauge for your shotgun. A 20-gauge shotgun can only shoot 20-gauge shells.

Q: What is “shot string”?

A: Shot string is the line of pellets as they fly out of the barrel. A good load keeps the shot string tight.

Q: Do I need special shells for hunting in wet weather?

A: You should keep your shells dry. If they get wet, they might not work. Store them in a waterproof container.

Q: What does “2 ¾ inch” mean for shell length?

A: This is the length of the shell. 2 ¾ inches is the standard length for most dove loads and works in most 20-gauge shotguns.

Q: Is lead shot harmful to the environment?

A: Lead shot can be harmful. Some places have rules against using lead shot. Always check your local hunting regulations.

Q: How does muzzle velocity affect my shooting?

A: Higher muzzle velocity means the shot travels faster and hits harder. It also means you don’t have to aim as high for distant birds.

Q: What is recoil?

A: Recoil is the backward push you feel when you shoot your shotgun. Loads with less powder or lighter shot have less recoil.

Q: Can I reload my own dove shells?

A: Yes, many people reload their own shells. It can save money and allow you to customize your loads. However, it requires special equipment and knowledge.

Q: How do I know if my shotgun is clean enough for these shells?

A: A clean shotgun barrel helps your shells perform best. You should clean your shotgun regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.