I'm gonna have to go with the 16 on this one. I use a Remington 870 wingmaster that my dad used when he was in his early years. That gun has taken down doves, ducks, geese and turkeys. Its a versitile gun. Plus, you have the added bonus of it being fun to shoot. I find 16 gauge to be a little more "sporty" than the 12. The 870 is well built and should take whatever punishment it might recieve in the field. I find the 16 shells to be ample for all purposes I've used. Ok, its harder to find ammo. I'll be the first to attest that. But you can get the ammo without too much effort. I think it's worth it.