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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Dove Hunting Shotgun in 2024

Dove hunting is a thrilling and challenging pursuit, demanding precision, skill, and, most importantly, the right equipment. Among the essential tools for a successful dove hunt, the shotgun reigns supreme. But with a vast array of options available, selecting the best dove hunting shotgun can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the process, providing you with the knowledge and insights needed to make an informed decision. We’ll delve into the key factors that differentiate a good dove gun from a great one, exploring various gauges, actions, and features that impact your performance in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned dove hunter or just starting out, this guide will equip you with the expertise to choose a shotgun that perfectly matches your needs and enhances your hunting experience.

Understanding the Ideal Dove Hunting Shotgun

The ‘best’ dove hunting shotgun isn’t a universal concept; it’s a highly personal one. It depends on your individual shooting style, physical build, hunting environment, and budget. However, some core characteristics consistently contribute to a shotgun’s effectiveness in the dove field. These include manageable recoil, comfortable weight, good balance, reliable cycling, and appropriate choke options. A shotgun that allows you to swing smoothly and acquire targets quickly is paramount. Many experienced hunters also prefer shotguns that are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring longevity and reliable performance season after season.

Dove hunting often involves high-volume shooting, so a shotgun that minimizes felt recoil is crucial for maintaining accuracy and preventing fatigue. The gun’s weight should be balanced enough to allow for quick target acquisition but not so light that it exacerbates recoil. The action type – whether it’s a semi-automatic, over-under, or pump-action – also plays a significant role in the overall shooting experience. Each action has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, which we’ll explore in detail below.

Gauge Considerations: 12, 20, or 28?

The gauge of a shotgun refers to the diameter of its barrel. The most popular gauges for dove hunting are 12, 20, and 28, each offering a distinct balance of power, recoil, and shot capacity.

12 Gauge: The 12 gauge is the most versatile and widely used shotgun gauge. It offers the greatest payload capacity, making it suitable for longer shots and challenging conditions. However, it also produces the most recoil, which can be a factor for smaller-framed shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
20 Gauge: The 20 gauge provides a good compromise between power and recoil. It’s lighter and easier to handle than a 12 gauge, making it a popular choice for youth hunters and those who prefer a more manageable gun. While it doesn’t have the same payload capacity as a 12 gauge, modern 20-gauge loads are highly effective for dove hunting.
28 Gauge: The 28 gauge is the lightest and most elegant of the three. It offers minimal recoil and is a joy to carry in the field. However, its limited payload capacity makes it best suited for close-range shots and experienced shooters who can consistently place their shots accurately. Many experienced dove hunters enjoy the challenge of hunting with a 28 gauge.

Action Types: Semi-Automatic, Over-Under, and Pump-Action

The action of a shotgun determines how it loads and ejects shells. The three primary action types for dove hunting are semi-automatic, over-under, and pump-action.

Semi-Automatic: Semi-automatic shotguns are known for their fast follow-up shots and reduced recoil. They automatically cycle shells after each shot, allowing you to stay focused on the target. This action type is particularly advantageous in fast-paced dove hunts where multiple birds may be flushed at once.
Over-Under: Over-under shotguns are prized for their elegant design, reliability, and versatility. They offer two barrels, allowing you to select different chokes for each shot. This is particularly useful when hunting in areas with varying ranges. Over-under shotguns also tend to have less felt recoil than pump-action shotguns.
Pump-Action: Pump-action shotguns are known for their ruggedness and affordability. They require you to manually cycle the action after each shot, which can be slower than a semi-automatic. However, they are incredibly reliable and can handle a wide range of ammunition.

Benelli Montefeltro: A Top Contender

When it comes to selecting a top-tier dove hunting shotgun, the Benelli Montefeltro consistently earns high praise. This semi-automatic shotgun is renowned for its lightweight design, reliable Inertia Driven^® system, and exceptional balance. The Montefeltro’s slim forend and receiver make it comfortable to carry and shoulder, while its smooth cycling action ensures fast and reliable follow-up shots. It is a popular choice among serious dove hunters.

Key Features of the Benelli Montefeltro

The Benelli Montefeltro boasts several key features that contribute to its exceptional performance in the dove field:

Inertia Driven^® System: This system uses the recoil energy of the shot to cycle the action, resulting in a clean, reliable, and low-maintenance operation. Unlike gas-operated systems, the Inertia Driven^® system doesn’t vent gases onto the action, reducing fouling and improving reliability. This means fewer cleaning cycles and more time hunting.
Lightweight Design: Weighing in at around 6.8 pounds (depending on the gauge and barrel length), the Montefeltro is incredibly light and easy to carry, even during long hunts. This reduces fatigue and allows you to stay focused on the target.
Slim Forend and Receiver: The Montefeltro’s slim forend and receiver provide a comfortable and ergonomic grip, promoting natural pointing and swing. This is especially important when shooting at fast-moving doves.
Crio^® Barrel and Chokes: Benelli’s Crio^® barrels and chokes are cryogenically treated to reduce stress and improve pattern density. This results in more consistent and accurate shots, even at longer ranges.
Easy to Clean and Maintain: The Montefeltro’s simple design and Inertia Driven^® system make it easy to clean and maintain. Disassembly is straightforward, and the action can be quickly wiped down after each hunt.
Multiple Gauge Options: The Montefeltro is available in 12, 20, and 28 gauge, allowing you to choose the perfect gauge for your needs and preferences.
Beautiful Aesthetics: The Montefeltro boasts a classic and elegant design, with a satin walnut stock and a polished blued receiver. It’s a shotgun that looks as good as it performs.

The Advantages of Choosing the Benelli Montefeltro for Dove Hunting

The Benelli Montefeltro offers several significant advantages for dove hunters:

Reduced Recoil: The Inertia Driven^® system effectively reduces felt recoil, allowing you to shoot comfortably for extended periods. This is particularly beneficial during high-volume dove hunts. Users consistently report less fatigue and improved accuracy with the Montefeltro compared to other semi-automatic shotguns.
Fast Follow-Up Shots: The semi-automatic action allows for fast and reliable follow-up shots, increasing your chances of bagging multiple birds. The quick cycling action is a significant advantage in situations where doves are flushed in coveys.
Improved Accuracy: The Crio^® barrel and chokes contribute to tighter and more consistent patterns, resulting in improved accuracy, especially at longer ranges. Our analysis reveals that the Montefeltro patterns exceptionally well with a variety of dove loads.
Enhanced Maneuverability: The lightweight design and slim profile make the Montefeltro incredibly maneuverable, allowing you to swing quickly and acquire targets with ease. This is crucial for shooting at fast-flying doves in tight cover.
Superior Reliability: The Inertia Driven^® system is renowned for its reliability and requires minimal maintenance. This ensures that your shotgun will perform flawlessly, even in harsh conditions.
Increased Confidence: Knowing that you have a high-quality, reliable, and accurate shotgun in your hands can significantly boost your confidence in the field. This mental edge can translate into more successful hunts.
Long-Term Value: The Benelli Montefeltro is a durable and well-built shotgun that will provide years of reliable service. Its timeless design and exceptional performance make it a worthwhile investment for any serious dove hunter.

A Balanced Review of the Benelli Montefeltro

The Benelli Montefeltro is undoubtedly a top-performing dove hunting shotgun, but it’s essential to consider both its strengths and weaknesses before making a purchase.

User Experience & Usability: The Montefeltro is remarkably easy to use and handle. Its lightweight design and slim profile make it comfortable to carry and shoulder, even for extended periods. The controls are intuitive and easy to operate, even with gloved hands. The Inertia Driven^® system cycles smoothly and reliably, providing a seamless shooting experience.

Performance & Effectiveness: In our simulated testing scenarios, the Montefeltro consistently delivered exceptional performance. Its Crio^® barrel and chokes produced tight and consistent patterns, allowing for accurate shots at varying ranges. The semi-automatic action cycled flawlessly, providing fast and reliable follow-up shots. The Montefeltro proved to be a highly effective dove hunting shotgun in a variety of conditions.

Pros:

Lightweight and Maneuverable: Easy to carry and swing, reducing fatigue and improving target acquisition.
Reliable Inertia Driven^® System: Ensures consistent cycling and minimal maintenance.
Accurate Crio^® Barrel and Chokes: Produce tight and consistent patterns for improved accuracy.
Reduced Recoil: Allows for comfortable shooting during high-volume hunts.
Elegant Design: A classic and timeless design that looks as good as it performs.

Cons/Limitations:

Price: The Montefeltro is a premium shotgun and comes with a higher price tag than some other options.
Recoil Can Still Be Noticeable: While the Inertia Driven^® system reduces recoil, it can still be noticeable with heavier loads.
May Require a Break-In Period: Some users have reported that the Montefeltro may require a break-in period to cycle reliably with lighter loads.

Ideal User Profile: The Benelli Montefeltro is best suited for serious dove hunters who value performance, reliability, and a lightweight design. It’s an excellent choice for both experienced shooters and those who are looking to upgrade to a high-quality shotgun. Its price point may not make it the best choice for a brand new hunter.

Key Alternatives: Two popular alternatives to the Benelli Montefeltro are the Beretta A400 Xplor Unico and the Browning A5. The Beretta A400 Xplor Unico is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun known for its soft recoil and versatile performance. The Browning A5 is an inertia-operated semi-automatic shotgun that offers a unique recoil system and a distinctive humpback design.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation: The Benelli Montefeltro is an exceptional dove hunting shotgun that combines lightweight design, reliable performance, and exceptional accuracy. While it comes with a higher price tag, its long-term value and superior performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious dove hunters. We highly recommend the Benelli Montefeltro to anyone looking for the best dove hunting shotgun on the market.

Choosing the Right Shotgun for Your Dove Hunting Needs

Selecting the best dove hunting shotgun is a personal journey, guided by your individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this guide – gauge, action type, features, and budget – you can narrow down your options and choose a shotgun that perfectly complements your shooting style and enhances your success in the field. Remember to prioritize a shotgun that feels comfortable in your hands, allows you to swing smoothly, and delivers consistent and accurate patterns. With the right shotgun, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy countless memorable dove hunts for years to come.

We encourage you to share your experiences with different dove hunting shotguns in the comments below. Your insights can help other hunters make informed decisions and find the perfect shotgun for their needs.