Shoot some different shell/shot combinations in your gun and find out what fits your gun best (i.e. what gives you the best pattern). There is no best load for turkeys. Just don't go shooting them at long ranges (>40 yds). I have been turkey hunting for several years and still use a gun. My opinion = turkeys are meant to be shot with a gun. So while I love deer hunting with my bow, when I go to the turkey woods I carry my Mossberg 12 gauge. Good Luck.