By jerky, I mean it has a sharper, quicker recoil than a shotgun of the same gauge, but of a heavier overall weight. If you can find a barrel with porting, that might solve some problems with muzzle rise. A 20 gauge would be fine also. That would be as small as I would go though. But in a 12 gauge, I think that 2 3/4" target loads wouldn't be too hard on your shoulder.