I have the same exact shotgun and useing any brand ammo it does great!

When i tried Federal Flitecontrol Wad #4 & #6 3 1/2 i was more impressed with the #4's and my pattern of the turkey target was decent and at 41 yards away i hit the vital areas with 11 bb's and you only need 1 or 2 to take a tom down..

I reccomend your friend spend a few bucks and take the 835 to a reputable gunsmith...

I would have tried the shotgun way before waiting a year so if their was any problems it would have still been under warranty..