RE: phesant load
I think you wasted your money on those shells. You should invest in a 10 gauge semi-auto with a 3 1/2 inch shell that would carry a 2 oz+ payload. That kind of gun has an added plus, it helps to build muscle.
Keep in mind that a 20 gauge 2 3/4 shell travels at the same verlocity, has less recoil and the gun weighs one hell of a lot less. The key to killing birds with a shotgun is ...practice, practice, practice.