I just picked up a VG condition Simson SxS in 12 ga - it's essentially identical to a Merkel Model 8. My gunsmith is going to set it up for me, and I need to make some decisions.

First, as typical with older German shotguns, it is choked Full and Extra Full. How much do I open it up? I'll be going after grouse and quail in the northern Nevada desert, so I'm guessing either Skeet or I/C on the right (first) barrel, and Light Modified on the left.

Second, even though I'll be using fairly light loads - max 1 oz of lead with 2 3/4 dram (or less) of powder - it will need a recoil pad. There are too many to choose from, and my gunsmith is little help - he just says get a grind-to-fit that I like and he'll do the rest. I'm guessing a Pachmayr Sporting Clays pad?

Finally, I don't reload. Anyone have a factory load they like that cuts recoil and is suitable for my kind of hunting?

Thanks in advance!

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