If I expect to need "longer range" performance, yes, I am. And, that is with the understanding that effective pattern diameter will be smaller, which requires a smaller aiming error angle to score.
That said, I would do the same thing for any reduction in shot charge, reguardless of the gauge. Also, this applies to a reduction in shot count via larger shot where both the number of hits and striking energy must be kept up for lethality.
Shotguns are especially subject to the law of "no free lunch." Larger shot size is the antidote to reduced energy from reduced velocity. Increased choke effect is the antidote to reduced shot count or extended range; at the cost of reduced effective pattern diameter. More accurate aiming is the antidote to reduced pattern diameter; at the cost of more practice of better technique.
