I just started upgrading my turkey setup and have never patterned a gun myself and currently use a mossberg 835 with a red dot, and Indian creek .665 choke. I have always shot 3 1/2" #4's but am wondering if I should consider #5's or even #6's. I just did a comparison using 3 1/2" Winchester #4 xx magnums and 3 1/2" Winchester long beard XR #4's. Here are my results:
XX magnums at 35 yd. LONGBEARD XR at 35yd. XX magnum at 50 yd Longbeard XR 50 yd
22 hits in a 4" circle 31 hits in 4" circle. 2 hits in 4" circle. 13 hits in 4" circle
44 hits in a 6" circle. 58 hits in 6" circle. 6 hits in 6" circle. 21 hits in 6" circle
67 hits in 8" circle. 118 hits in 8" circle. 19 hits in 8" circle. 33 hits in 8" circle
105 hits in 10" circle. 172 hits in 10" circle. 24 hits in 10" circle. 52 hits in 10" circle
The XR is a no brainer. Can anyone offer suggestions whether this is really good or a typical pattern with #4 or if I should consider going to #5's or even #6's.? Pro's con's or comments? Also, I can't afford hevi shot.