Need help setting up a turkey gun. Load or choke first?

[rich870]

After many years I'm returning  to turkey hunting with new gun this year. Have 2 extended turkey super full chokes, one  full. I'm thinking to pick a load ( Winchester Long Beard 12ga 3", # 5 or 6 shot) then see which choke patterns  best. I'm I thinking right? How many shots per load? I know one shot per target. Any other suggestions for ammo in the price range of the LongBeards?
PS. the gun is a 870 with either 18 1/2" or 28" Remchokes, optic sights

[BINK McCARTY]

I'd say you're on the path to success. No need in spending money before you see how what you have does. If you're shooting lead then hands down the long beard ammo is the way to go. Personally I would get a box of both 5s and 6s in 3" ...even if your gun will shoot 3.5" shells. 3" shells have quite a bit less recoil and alot of times pattern better than the 3.5" not to mention the pellet count difference is not that much.
Difference in pellet count in 2 oz. compared to 1 3/4 oz. 5s = 46. Difference in 2 oz. compared to 1 3/4 oz. 6s = 54.
I'd see how the chokes you have shoot with the long beards then go from there. Good luck and reach out for anything you might need!!!

[rich870]

Thank You. Yeah 3" is my limit. Think I'll pattern #5 and 6, at 25yd. Which ever is better I'll take it out, see my max range. Trying to keep it simple because I figure by the time the virus lockdown is over we will be well into the season in NY, NJ where I'd be hunting

[Sir-diealot]

Welcome back! This was helpful to me last year, hope it helps you as well. http://oldgobbler.com/Forum/index.php/topic,14641.msg832251.html#msg832251