The choice is really yours. I us every advantage I can get. No, the hevi-shot does not need a special choke tube. I shoot a 3 1/2 mag. using a extra full choke tube with the hevi-shot #5's. I also use the Winchester Supremes #5's with the same set up. I bought the hevi-shot on 1/2 price sale at Gander Mt. last year and I guess that is how I got started. It is really hard to justify paying regular price of $4 to $5 per shell for the 3 1/2 mag. shells though. Good luck Jim