if you're only turkey hunting get the 12. The difference in the pattern is minimal but the difference in weight is huge. I hunted turkeys for years with a BPS 10 before buying a 3 1/2 870. I've never considered going back. I also think it's easier to find premium turkey shells (they ARE worth it) in 12 ga. The recoil for the 12 will make your eyes water but you're not going to be shooting more than a handful of times each year.