I’m gearing up for dove hunting season and I’m on the hunt for some good 12 gauge loads. Specifically, I’m curious to know what options are available at Walmart. I’ve heard that brands like Federal and Winchester have some great choices, but I want to hear from others before I make a purchase.
Questions I Have:
What types of 12 gauge dove loads do you recommend?
Are there specific brands that seem to outperform others in the field?
Have you had any experiences with Federal or Winchester loads?
I’ve seen some promotions, but I’m not sure if they’re worth it for dove hunting.
What’s the price range I should expect at Walmart?
Are the prices competitive compared to other stores?
Additional Thoughts:
I’ve been reading some forum discussions on sites like Shotgun World and Trapshooters about the effectiveness of different loads for small game. Many people swear by certain types, and I’d love to compile those insights. If anyone has specific experiences, especially if you’ve recently purchased from Walmart, please share!
Also, any suggestions on where to find reliable reviews for these loads would be appreciated. I just want to ensure I’m making a good choice before I head out to the field!
I’ve been to a few Walmarts recently, and they seem to have the Winchester AA dove loads pretty consistently in stock. Check the store in Springfield; they typically restock on Wednesdays.
I’ve seen the Federal dove loads at my local Walmart in Glastonbury. They have a decent selection, although stock can vary based on the season. Weekend afternoons are the best for restocking.
I’ve had decent luck with Remington loads, but never for doves. I’ve found that sometimes they just don’t hit as clean. You might want to stick with FPS brands for better performance!
Funny you mention performance! Last time I went dove hunting, I used some cheaper loads and regretted it! Not that we should all splurge, but quality matters. Walmart usually sells them fairly priced, though.
The last time I checked the Salt Lake Walmart, they were out of most shotgun ammo, including dove loads. Visitor traffic has really shot up, but restocking should happen again soon! Maybe early next week?
I’m from Tulsa, and the Walmart here has been pretty hit or miss. Last time I found some nice winchester loads but nearly all the cheaper brands were gone. The best time to go is Saturday morning.
Oh yeah! I once had a pigeon snatching my shopping bag at the store—it thought I was carrying food! They say doves have short memories, but that one was persistent.
I’ve had great success with Federal Premium 12 gauge dove loads. They’re consistent and relatively affordable at Walmart—usually around $9 a box. I’ve used them for years and have found they perform well in the field.
I totally agree! I tried the Winchester AA loads too, and they are excellent as well. They’re priced similarly, but some say the Federal has a slight edge in consistency.