I prefer the bigger FETs when dealing with lots of energy & current. There are some pretty amazing TO220 mosfet specs but it doesnt sit comfortably with me when you put them alongside a TO247 package - cause they look tough! I have not used any electronic engineering data to back this up, consider this a gut feel or anecdotal assessment!
I also like the mounting of TO247 and the surface area for heat transfer and yes the legs are much more substantial - If I have the space I will use TO247 any day.If at first you dont succeed, I suggest you avoid sky diving.... Cheers Mike