I use hard 8s early season and 7-1/2s later for doves, unless its windy. Then its 7-1/2 or sometimes 6 on doves, mostly longer shots in the desert. Quail are often 6s. All that is when Im out of CA, because all game here requires non-tox. Changes the equation and makes me leave 5he .410 and 28 at home.