However, a 20-bore magnum will do a good job at reasonable ranges and its lighter weight and recoil are best for women and young hunters. No matter what gun you choose, you should do three things before taking it hunting. First, shoot it at a large piece of paper to make sure that it hits where it is aimed. Guns that shoot nearly a foot off the point of aim are not unheard of. Under turkey shooting conditions that will often miss or would the bird.
Individual guns can be picky about shot size and load.
Try several loads to find one your gun shoots best. Finally, find out how far your gun shoots a good pattern. That is your maximum range. Take a long and critical look at your spring turkey hunting environment. A hardwood forest's floor is mostly gray and brown.