I have used my wifes Ithaca 20 guage Deerslayer on 2 deer and it worked fine. Neither went more than 50 yards before dropping. I still prefer the 12 guage though as it definatly makes a bigger hole and better blood trail if needed. I have also found that her 20 would shoot more accuratly than my 12 guage did.. That is why I bought a rifled barrel for my gun.