20 ga. 2 3/4
Whatever you do, pattern the gun, choke and ammo, and see what the POI is.<br>
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The problem with the 20ga is that it cannot reach out as far as a 12ga for pattern density with turkey loads. 1-1/4 oz in a 20ga simply cannot compete with 2 oz in a 12ga.<br>
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You need to make sure the ammo you're using isn't overchoked in your turkey choke. Different loads have different degrees of sensitivity to this. Try both a full and your superfull choke.<br>
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As for the shotshells, they widely vary. Sometimes a premium shell with a bit less payload will work as good as or better than a cheaper shell with soft shot. I've found that some makes of even premium shells had a 10 yard difference for pattern density when put on paper. This was due to how soft the lead was under the copper cladding. One make opened up because most of the shot was crushed into cube shape, while its similar competitor resisted that and was round. There was a 10 yard difference in range.<br>
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And, the tighter the choke, the more critical aiming becomes. And I do not mean pointing - this isn't trap or upland hunting. It's turkey hunting, and it's best done with rifle sights. Look into the Tru-Glo rifle sights that stick onto the rib.<br>
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As for testing, I've made a link for a good turkey target. Unlike other turkey targets, this one shows the critical skull and neck bones. You must have penetration of these bones ensure a kill. Penetration of these bones means getting into the brain and spinal column. When you see how few pellets hit the skull and bones, you'll get a better appreciation for pattern density, range, and sights. Take a cardboard box and tape with you, a long measuring tape, and a marking pen, and pattern your loads and choke between 30 to 50 or so yards. In my experience, most 20ga loads are between 35 and 45 yards, and 12ga loads are between 45 to 55 yards. Do not worry about the overall pattern. You are only concerned with the pattern into the head, its density, and quality of the pattern. Anything outside of head counts for nothing.<br>
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After you're done testing, have your kid try it to see how the POA/POI works out (Point Of Aim/Point Of Impact). There are more fun targets for a kid to shoot at, including some on color. Google via google images for "turkey target".