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Concierge Insight

June 1, 2026

Q: thinking about renting shotguns, what's the difference in recoil or performance between a 20 gauge and 12 gauge for dove hunting

AWS EXPERT REPLY
That's a great question, and the choice between a 12 gauge and a 20 gauge can significantly impact your comfort and performance during a high-volume dove hunt!

Generally, a 12 gauge offers more power, a larger shot payload, and can provide denser patterns at longer ranges. This means it can be very effective, but it also typically comes with noticeably more recoil, which can lead to fatigue over several days of high-volume shooting, especially given the sheer volume of doves you'll encounter in Argentina.

A 20 gauge, on the other hand, is lighter, produces less recoil, and is often preferred by hunters who are sensitive to recoil, new to shooting, or simply want a more comfortable experience. For the vast majority of dove hunting scenarios, a 20 gauge is perfectly adequate and highly effective, allowing you to shoot more comfortably for longer periods without sacrificing much performance. Many experienced dove hunters actually prefer the 20 gauge for its lighter weight and quicker handling, making it easier to swing on fast-moving birds.

At AWS Lodge, we understand these preferences, and we ensure you have access to excellent firearms suitable for high-volume shooting. Unless you are booking a 1-day trip, our multi-day packages are completely all-inclusive. This covers luxury lodging, gourmet meals, open bar, and professional guides. We handle all the logistics for you, including arranging gun rentals and hunting licenses, which are added to your final itinerary so you don't have to worry about the details. Our team will help you select the ideal shotgun for your comfort and shooting style upon arrival.

AWS Lodge Note: These insights cover recurring topics raised by hunters and travelers and are informed by AWS Lodge’s operational experience. Questions may be edited or modeled for clarity and are not necessarily verbatim guest submissions. While we strive for accuracy, seasons, regulations, field conditions, weather, and specific logistics may vary. Always confirm final details through your written quotation and itinerary. Contact Staff »

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