The 7/8 oz. loads sound like a good plan in your case, Ted. I agree with the suggestion of learning with a gas gun. They can be light years less in felt recoil than your light 12 SLE.

Heck, you could find even a 390 or 391 for little money. And, unless it was the everyday gun of a very serious clays shooter it won't be worn out, I promise.

Best to you, SRH

May God bless America and those who defend her.