I've shot a 3.5 since I was 15 and have never had a problem with it.Although both shells get the job done after owning my 3.5 and taking not only turkeys but ducks and geese with it for years,it would be difficult to change.I dont have one bit of a problem with recoil that everyone seems to whine about.I dont shoot a 3.5 12gauge I shoot a 10ga Ithica to be exact and because the gun is heavy and its an automatic most of the recoil is absorbed there at the shot.My wife can shoot it without a problem.If you want to shoot a 3.5 comfortably than buy a bigger gun, a 10 auto to be exact and you'll be fine. <img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>