Choosing the right shotgun can make or break your dove season. Whether you’re a first-time hunter or a seasoned wing-shooter, a well-matched shotgun gives you better balance, faster follow-up shots, and more successful outings. In this guide, we break down the best dove hunting shotguns for 2025 — from premium workhorses to budget-friendly picks that punch above their weight.
🔹 1. Beretta A300 Outlander – Best Overall
The Beretta A300 Outlander continues to top the list for its reliability, soft recoil, and ease of maintenance. This gas-operated semi-auto is known for cycling smoothly even under dusty field conditions. Its balance and lightweight design make it ideal for extended days in the field. Plus, Beretta’s craftsmanship ensures long-term durability. I have this gun myself and have no issues with cycling or reliability, even after thousands of rounds.
✅ Pros:
- Smooth recoil
- Trusted brand
- Easy to clean
🛒 Affiliate Link Option: Buy the Beretta A300 on [Retailer]
🔹 2. Stoeger M3000 – Best Value Under $700
The Stoeger M3000 is one of the best budget semi-autos in the dove world. It uses an inertia-driven system (borrowed from Benelli) that performs surprisingly well. It handles 2¾” and 3” shells, comes with multiple chokes, and has a solid, no-frills build. It’s a favorite for hunters who want reliability without a steep price tag.
✅ Pros:
- Affordable
- Inertia-driven reliability
- Good for new hunters
🛒 Affiliate Link Option: Check Stoeger M3000 Pricing
🔹 3. Mossberg SA-20 – Best for Youth & Small-Framed Shooters
For younger hunters or anyone looking for low recoil and lighter weight, the Mossberg SA-20 is an excellent 20-gauge option. This gas-operated semi-auto offers manageable recoil and comes in both standard and bantam models. It’s especially useful where fast follow-ups and quick shouldering matter.
✅ Pros:
- Light recoil
- Great for teens or smaller adults
- Well-balanced
🛒 Affiliate Link Option: View the Mossberg SA-20
🔹 4. Winchester SX4 Field – Most Versatile Pick
The Winchester SX4 Field is known for its reliability, fast cycling, and comfortable ergonomics. Its gas-operated system tames recoil, while the textured grip and oversized controls make it easy to handle even with gloves. The SX4 is often considered a “do-it-all” semi-auto — great for dove but also a solid choice for ducks and upland birds. If you want to invest in only one shotgun for a variety of uses, you can’t go wrong with the SX4.
✅ Pros:
- Fast cycling
- Smooth recoil
- Textured stock for control
🛒 Affiliate Link Option: Get the Winchester SX4
🔹 5. Remington 870 Express – Best Pump Action Option
Some dove hunters still prefer a good old pump, and the Remington 870 Express remains a classic. It’s ultra-durable, affordable, and extremely easy to maintain. While follow-up shots are slower than a semi-auto, the 870 excels in reliability and versatility. It’s also a great backup gun to keep in the truck.
✅ Pros:
- Reliable pump action
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to maintain
🛒 Affiliate Link Option: Remington 870 Pricing
🛠️ What to Look for in a Dove Shotgun
When shopping for the best dove hunting shotgun, keep these key features in mind:
- Recoil Management: You’ll be taking dozens (or hundreds) of shots in a day.
- Smooth Cycling: Fast follow-ups matter in a hot dove field.
- Weight & Balance: A lighter, well-balanced gun is easier to shoulder quickly.
- Ease of Cleaning: Dove hunting means dust, shells, and sweat — maintenance matters.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hunting sunflower fields in Texas or wheat stubble in Kansas, the shotgun you choose plays a huge role in your success. All five options above offer proven performance and are trusted by dove hunters across the country. From premium semi-autos to budget-friendly workhorses, there’s something here for every budget and experience level.
Choose the shotgun that fits you best — and hit your limit with confidence this season.