I'm not sure why everyone is getting so defensive. I have read every post in this thread and NOBODY had said anything negative about anyone who chooses a 3 1/2" shell. Nobody.

I posted this thread because about every day or 2 the question comes up...which is better, 3 or 3 1/2". I hear all the time, not on here necessarily but around work and my friends, that a 3 1/2" hits harder and is better. The only point to this thread was to show that velocities are the same making the energy the same. Yes, you get 1/2 oz more shot, but each individual shot pellet weight stays the same. You aren't shooting a slug so the weight of the shot charge isn't relevant as it pertains to knockdown power.

I have absolutely no problem with anyone that chooses to shoot a 3 1/2" shell. By all means, be my guest. I don't think it makes you less of a hunter or more of a hunter. But for someone interested in the facts is what this post was intended for.