In my opinion whatever gun fits you the best would be fine. I have owned several 12 ga turkey guns they were fine but I love the 10 ga bps that I just bought it patterns a lot better than the 12's did and the recoil is minimal due to the weight of the gun.my 12 ga guns had more recoil firing 3.5 inch turkey loads than the 10 ga does firing winchester #5 2 1/4 oz 3.5 inch turkey loads. Put a good sling on the 10 ga and it is fine to carry around.