i have hunted with many guns for turkey and most other game.firearms have been my hobby since i was old enough to know what they were.but this is just my opinion .turkey at 40 yds can be tough with anything less then 3 1/2 shells.i have taken toms at 50 yds (a real 50 yds)with an sp10 Remington at $900 and have taken them with (my favorite turkey gun)my mossberg 835 at $300.most 3 1/2 chambered in 12 gauge or 10 gauge now days will be compatible with each other.there are those that will say that a $1300 browning or barretta will out shoot a cheaper gun.in my many years of firearms experience ,i have not seen that.some will cycle smoother , shoot faster and definitely look better.but the first round down field(the most important one) ,they are all pretty compatible. also i prefer a pump or a bolt over an auto,unless were talking duck and goose where several shots may be needed.i just have had bad expierences with autos in the mud, dirt,ice and such.ill get some heat from that statement.as far as shot and loads ,that will be a little different in any gun you pick.ps the 835 does come in a thumbhole stock and they are very comfortable .