ORIGINAL: OntElk

I don't think it's a personal thing. It's a physics thing. Larger shot will have better knockdown power but if it comes at the cost of pattern then it's no good. There is a reason why #6 is considered legal in most states. It's because a load of that size with a good pattern WILL kill a turkey. Ask those who shoot 20 guage and use this size shot how it works. Pattern at the desired range is more important. If you can get that desired pattern with a larger shot then all the better.

Now we have various synthetic loads with hi-density and "hevi" shot. There knockdown power is even more effecient than previous turkey loads. As a result you can increase pellet count and/or improve pattern and still whack 'em at the farther ranges even if you use a lower shot size.

Don't worry about the what the number shot ends up being. 4, 5 or 6. Get the right pattern and away you go.