I'm just getting started in BP shot gunning, same as you, and have read that you can fill your plastic wads by splitting 12 gauge felt wads and putting them under the shot. I haven't tried it because I don't use plastic wads. I am not a turkey hunter yet. I just bought a Pedersoli 12 ga. with choke tubes and have not had much of a chance to shoot it yet - but am champing at the bit for warmer weather.