I'm guessing this topic has been beat to death in the past, but with so many shell options I'm just wondering what you all use? Is the 3 1/2" overkill, or does a 3" do fine with a hot shell? And what size shot you prefer?

After comparing my Academy selection of shells, I settled with a box of: Winchester Double XX, 12 Ga. 3" 13/4 oz. 4 shot @ 1300 velocity.

I'm in favor of a denser pattern, so with lead, 6's. HTL, 7's are my preference.

Gman

I bought the same double x shells. Number 4s should do a fine job

Number 4 or number 5 are my preferred. That 3-1/2 will really reach out there if your calling skills aren't always tip top (I call that a picky Tom so I feel better about myself). But 3" or even 2-3/4 have killed plenty of birds for me.

#7 hevi. Pattern a couple. I'd guess 1 3/4 oz #4 will ill compare to the hevis and the energy delivered shouldn't be much dif at all.

There have been studies done on the size shot needed to deliver lethal hits on turkey. Most of those #5 lead shot deliver enough energy to break a turkey's neck at 50 yards and that is my choice in lead shot. For Heavy shot options #6 gets the nod with enough energy.

I prefer the denser patterns of smaller shot but still want to be able to bust that gobbler reliably at 50 yards if he were to hang up.

Mostly pattern your gun with several and see what delivers a good pattern and stay within the range that your gun and load deliver a pattern dense enough for multiple hits in the neck and head then stay within that range.

No such thing as overkill when it comes to shooting a Turkey in the face. 3" will get it done just fine. 3 1/2 will seal the deal. I like number 4's but have seen some gobblers take a dirt nap with number 6's something fierce.

#9.5 TSS!

Wondered when you would pipe in with those. Using the 20ga again this year?

I almost put #9's and left it at that. 100% on the twenty. I'll never carry another 12ga if I can help it.

Heavey shot blend! 5,6&7!!!

I use 3.5 winchester supreme #5 because my gun patterns them the best.

buy a couple different ones, pattern the gun

I like 4's and have had good luck with them out of a 3"...

Tried heavi, but my gun patterns better with plain old lead, which is ok by me!

I use Winchester supreme 3" #4 shot. This patterns well for me with 24"barrel and extra full turkey choke.

22 Magnum

Ditto with a Hevi 13 choke it is a swarm at 50 yards..

17 hmr more range

High brass copper # 5's.

#4 shot in 3" Winchester Supreme Turkey Loads work great for me