I shot my first Pheasant with a single shot .410. It teaches you to make the shot count. Its light and fast, Perfect for begginners and us old folk. Although I,m in my 40' s. I still like using the old Harrington & Richards. When my son is not using it.Some times we trade off. I recommend number 5 shot. Good Luck to you and have fun. After all thats what the .410 was made for. Learning and Harvesting and as Chukarbuster said and so did Clint Eastwood You got to know your Limitations. Good Luck and Go For It. Ps I' ve never crippled one with the .410 although my son did once. Just stick to shots 25 yds and under and you should do fine.