ORIGINAL: stuckinthereeds
I have always been a fan of 12 gauge shotguns.
Me too, especially for waterfowl (though I do like a 10 gauge for blind shooting honkers.
ORIGINAL: However, lately I have been more interested in purhcasing a 20 gauge.
Buying new guns is always an interesting endeavour and not to be discouraged.
ORIGINAL: It would be used mainly for all types of bird hunting.
ALL types? Be sure to keep one of your 12 gauges for waterfowl in particular.
Original: What are your thoughts when choosing a 20 over a 12?
Hmmm...
** If you have injuries which make you sensitive to recoil then a 20 gauge would be a marked improvement.
** If you get tired or plan on getting tired of carrying a 12 gauge, then a 20 gauge would be a marked improvement.
** If you want to make your hunting more challenging then a 20 gauge could help/force you towards that end (hopefully killing ratios and ethics will remain status quo).
Otherwise,
I really don't have ANY thoughts about choosing a 20 over a 12 --- It just won't happen. I couldn't wait to get a 12 gauge when I turned 10 years old and I sure won't be stepping back down anytime soon. Sold the childhood .410 long ago, tried a friends 20 gauge duck hunting..... [TAKE 'EM!!!]..... ahh, no.
But hey, that is just me. You will need to decide what is best for you and your shooting/hunting enjoyment and take it from there....
Good luck with your new acquisition.
EKM