Author Topic: Which chokes should I use for doves (Read 663 times)

Gregory · « **on:** August 27, 2004, 02:51:53 PM »

I plan to use my new to me Red Label 20 ga for the dove opener Sept 1. Problem is the gun only came with 4 skeet chokes and one full choke. Hopefully Ruger will come through with a mod and imp cyl. choke before next Wed. But if they don't, would I be better off with a skeet/skeet or skeet/full set up? I hunt near a pond and the doves fly in the late afternoon. Most shots are at incoming doves and the first shot is 30-35 yds and the second can be right on top of you. I plan to use the imp cyl/mod chokes when they come. Would there be a better set up?

dukkillr · « **Reply #1 on:** August 27, 2004, 04:36:08 PM »

skeet/skeet... i shoot a mod but i would say that imp is the perfect barrel. full would be out of the question.

Graybeard · « **Reply #2 on:** August 27, 2004, 05:58:05 PM »

Cyl and IC is my favorite. Or SK 1 and SK 2 if offered. Can't imagine a gun coming with four skeet chokes even if they offer SK1 and SK2. Modified is seldom ever needed on incoming birds. Go with a pair of skeet tubes and I think you'll do fine. Might even surprise yourself at the improvement in your birds to shells average.

fffffg · « **Reply #3 on:** August 27, 2004, 06:00:18 PM »

for what you descrive id use improved then cylinder.. cylinder bore is under rated and works exceptionally well up close..mayhbe skeet and cylinder are the same i dont know.. i have a 16 guage flintlock muzzeloader with cylinder bore and its fine out 30-35 yards with well -patterned loads and the right sized shot.. .. dave

Gregory · « **Reply #4 on:** August 28, 2004, 02:23:15 AM »

Thanks for the suggestions. C130E, I'm hunting a conservation area in Crawford Co. It's a five minute drive from my house. GB, I'm hoping to improve my birds per box of shells average :lol: ! I'm always on the rifle and pistol range at my club and I should visit the trap and skeet range once in awhile.

22hornet · « **Reply #5 on:** August 28, 2004, 06:21:09 AM »

Not to clutter up your post but what size shot do you guys recommend. I've never been but I got invited to go with a buddy of mine from work.

Gregory · « **Reply #6 on:** August 28, 2004, 07:53:44 AM »

I bought a box of 8's and a box of 7 1/2's. I'm going to compare results before I buy more.

Graybeard · « **Reply #7 on:** August 28, 2004, 01:35:55 PM »

I use 8's for doves mostly. Exlusively if they are in close as you're expecting. ONLY if I go to Modified or Full choke and expect pass shooting a longer ranges do I use 7.5's