I have been going to South Dakota to hunt pheasants for quite a few years now. I ordered a 20 ga SxS sidelock specifically for that purpose. I never shoot 3" shells. I just use "good" 2 3/4 loads with plated shot. I like #5 and #6 shot. Late in the season, often times after the snow has come, we pull out the 12 gauge guns. My friends shoot SBEs, 3". I still use 2 3/4 loads in a Browning Gold on an 1100. My next gun will be a nice 28 ga O/U. I won't take any shot over 30 yards with the 28. My shooting partners can send their dogs to go get the birds they shoot past 30. They will be shooting ther 12s.
