how effective is a 20ga, im thinking of buying my with the youth model

The 20 guage can be a deadly turkey killer. However, you have to take it to the range and see how it does on paper first. The 20 guage will have some limiations compared to the 12 guage and you will need to see where yours will be. Though it should be fine for a 25 yard killer, and heck that' s all you need. Call em' in close

ive heard alot of guys using theird out to 35 yds...all dpeneds on the pattern and load though....get it and play with loads and chokes until you get one that is really tight way out there...then set the limits and tell her not to shot past whatever you decide on...after 30-35 yds the energy may not be high enough in some loads so be careful...good luck...i hope i can find a girl that hunts so we can enjoy it together...but im 16 it doesnt matter right now...you do have something special though...

If it patterns well and you can shoot it good, go for it

See my post about youth 20 gauge turkey model guns. Let me know if you find one that is 2 3/4" and 3" compatible.

If you buy a 12 guage you can always shoot lighter loads.

so what youre saying is a 12ga 2 3/4" would have the same range and recoil as a 20ga 3" ? i figured the 20 would hold a tighter pattern+ not knock her into next week

While I' m certain that 20' s have killed plenty of turkeys, I' ll stick to my 12ga. I' d rather up the anty than limit myself. JMO.

Hey, you could get her a 12 and just say it only hurts for a little while. LOL. [8D]

A lot depends on the gun, if you are woried about recoil. A 12 with some more wieght to it than a small 20 will absorb more of the recoil, resulting in less felt recoil. Maybe a ladies model in 12 gauge. If it is a youth 20, particularlly a single shot, I would think the recoil form a 3" shell would be punishing. Whichever you choose consider getting her one of those strap on shoulder recoil pads she can wear under her camo. That should help cut any potential pain, making the experience more enjoyable and increasing the likelyhood she will stick with it and become a permant hunting partner for you.

Check out the New Rem 870 turkey gun in 20ga. I' m sure with the new Hevi Shot you would be able to take turkeys out to 40 yards....