I don't think you can go wrong with 5 or 6 shot, but I would pattern the gun's barrels with loads you choose at distances you feel comfortable shooting. Some loads and shot sizes and patterns can vary in performance from one shell manufacturer to another and even in different guns. Most of the time your okay 30 yards and in on anything, 30 plus on a SXS and things can get wonky with center of pattern. Some will disagree, but sometimes in open ground at ground level it can be tough to gauge that distance. Took shots on birds that I thought confidently was at 30 yards and it ended up being at just under 40. There could be holes in the pattern depending on shot and shell.
Have never taken a turkey with a sxs but premise is the same even with a single barrel guns with sights, patterning gun is just wise and ethical to make sure your harvest is right and you have confidence in performance of gun and shot.
Last edited by Todd Poer; 02-17-2018 at 04:52 PM..
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