Shot Size: 7.5 vs. 8 — What’s the Real Difference?

For dove, the most common choices are #7.5 and #8 shot.

• #8 shot contains more pellets per ounce.
• #7.5 shot contains fewer pellets, but each pellet is slightly larger and carries more energy.

When #8 Shot Shines

Early season birds often present closer opportunities. In tighter setups—small fields, tree lines, or water sources—shots tend to be fast and inside 25 yards.

The higher pellet count of #8 shot increases the probability of multiple strikes, which is helpful when birds surprise you at close range.

When #7.5 Makes Sense

If you’re hunting larger, open fields where birds flare wide or hang up at distance, #7.5 shot offers a little more downrange authority. The slightly larger pellets retain energy better at 30–40 yards.

In short:

• Closer shots → #8
• Longer shots → #7.5

Payload Weight: More Isn’t Always Better

Most 12-gauge dove loads come in:

• 1 ounce
• 1 1/8 ounce

At first glance, 1 1/8 ounce seems superior because it contains more pellets. For example:

• 1 oz of #8 shot ≈ 410 pellets
• 1 1/8 oz of #8 shot ≈ 460+ pellets

But here’s the catch: if powder charges remain similar, the lighter 1-ounce load can often achieve slightly higher velocity.

At moderate distances (20–30 yards), that velocity difference can offset the pellet count advantage. The heavier load may pattern denser up close, but velocity loss at longer distances can narrow that advantage.

Practical Takeaway

• Close, fast shooting → 1 1/8 oz can provide denser patterns.
• Slightly extended ranges → 1 oz loads may carry energy a bit better.

As always, pattern your shotgun before season to see what it prefers.

Proven 12-Gauge Dove Loads

Here are several widely available and reliable dove loads worth considering:

Federal Hi-Bird

• 12 gauge, 2¾"
• 1 1/8 oz
• #8 shot
• 1,200 fps
  A dependable early-season performer with balanced velocity and pattern density.

Winchester Super X

• 12 gauge, 2¾"
• 1 1/8 oz
• #8 shot
• 1,255 fps
  A slightly hotter load that delivers consistent patterns and solid energy.

Remington Heavy Dove Load

• 12 gauge, 2¾"
• 1 1/8 oz
• #7.5 shot
• 1,255 fps
  Well-suited for more open terrain and slightly longer crossing shots.

Fiocchi Dove Load

• 12 gauge, 2¾"
• 1 oz
• #7.5 shot
• 1,250 fps
  A lighter payload that still maintains strong downrange velocity.

Browning Performance Target

• 12 gauge, 2¾"
• 1 1/8 oz
• #8 shot
• 1,155 fps
  A softer-shooting option that still delivers effective pattern density for close work.

Matching the Load to Your Setup

Field layout matters.

• Small, tree-lined acreage → Expect close shots → Favor #8 shot.
• Large open fields → Longer crossing shots → Consider #7.5 shot.
• Tight chokes amplify pellet density.
• Improved Cylinder or Modified chokes are common dove choices.

The most important step? Pattern your shotgun with a few loads before opening day. Even small differences between brands can change how your gun throws a pattern.

Final Thoughts

Dove hunting rewards preparation. The right load won’t fix poor swing mechanics—but it can improve your margin for error when fast birds zig-zag across the sky.

Whether you choose a lighter 1-ounce load for speed or a 1 1/8-ounce load for pellet density, matching your ammunition to your field conditions will help you make cleaner, more consistent hits this season.