Decoys are helpful SOMETIMES, BUT they can also be problematic. I have had lots of success with them, but they have also spooked birds for me. With archery gear, I think they really help for the most part when used with a pop-up blind. With a shotgun, I think you will do as nearly as well to try to get ahead of the bird and do some purring or putting with an occasional yelp.
Knowing where the birds are likely to move helps a lot, but is not always possible. If you have a henned-up tom, he will not leave them to approach you unless the whole crew moves your way-which they often will if you are patient. A single tom is easy if you position well and play your cards right. He will usually come into shotgun range without worrying about a decoy.
The decoys that I have are old and did not cost much. You may be better off the more life-like the decoy looks. I suppose if it makes you more confident, even a cheap one is better than nothing, though. I agree that a jake and hen combo would be a good purchase.
