I have been reading about people shooting birds at 60-65 yards. I don't agree with this practice, as it is too easy to cripple a bird. I try to shoot geese at no more than 40-45 yards, and I use Hevi-Shot 3 inch #2 or #4 goose loads. I wouldn't try a 45 yard shot on a goose with steel, although I am sure it could be done but not consistently. The downrange energy with Hevi-Shot is indisputable, and even at 45 yards with good shot placement, cripples are few.