I have shot a lot of birds and a lot a clay targets--all I ever used was AA rounds. For pheasant I prefer the Aa super handicap in 7 1/2. Grouse, quail Aa 8s in 3/4 oz in 28 gauge and 7/8oz in 20 gauge.
You can't go wrong with the consistent performance In AA loads heck, the price point is right and as long as you know your limitation AA loads are a great bird round.