RE: Just patterned, Any good?
 

I bought a tru-glo pro series magnum gobble dot. I shot 15-20 pellets in the brain and spine at 27 yds, and 9-10 at 35yds. I was using a federal magshok 1 7/8 oz 3in #4. I dont know about the rest of you but im satisfied with that. And as i found out 5 turkey loads in a half hour really kills your shoulder!!!

RE: Just patterned, Any good?
 

3" 12ga. #5 nitro's through a .660 carlson tube...at 25yds a 3" circle was pretty much non-existent after 1 shot through it. at a laser-ed 38yd turkey head target i was shooting 25-30 bb's in the head and 15 or so were kill zone's with a single hi-viz bead, no rear sight.
high shooting or low shooting patterns can be adjusted with changing your comb height, how high your head is when your cheek is on the stock. mine was shooting low, so i got a slip-on sleeve that foam shims can be installed under to raise my head. this helped me.

RE: Just patterned, Any good?
 

I know what you mean about trying to pattern and getting all beat up. Several years ago I bought a Benelli SBE and tried 3 1/2" mags. After shooting 6 shots I was shot. Small Black and Blue mark on my shoulder that turned a wonderful shade of brown after a few days. I sent the gun out for lazer porting and a forcing cone lenghthening. That did wonders. It still kicks because the gun is only 6 pounds but it is tolerable now. Funny I never feel it on the birds.

RE: Just patterned, Any good?
 

Sounds like you found it:D

Good luck... And good job on getting your gun up to par;)