Understanding Turkey Shotgun Shells: The Foundation for Success
Gauge and Chamber
Before diving into specific shell recommendations, it’s essential to understand the components that make up a turkey load. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions based on your specific needs and hunting conditions.
First, we must consider the **gauge and chamber** of your shotgun. The gauge refers to the diameter of the shotgun’s barrel. Common gauges for turkey hunting include twelve-gauge and twenty-gauge, with twelve-gauge being the more popular choice due to its greater shot capacity and generally wider effective range. Twenty-gauge shotguns are lighter and easier to maneuver, offering a viable alternative, especially for younger hunters or those who prefer a lighter gun. Crucially, your shotgun’s chamber size (e.g., two and three-quarter inch, three-inch, or three and a half-inch) must match the shell length. Using a shell that is too long for the chamber is extremely dangerous and can cause severe damage to your firearm and serious injury. Always check the markings on your gun and the shell box to ensure a perfect match.
Shot Size
Next up is **shot size**. This refers to the diameter of the individual pellets contained within the shell. Shot size significantly impacts the effective range and pattern density. Smaller shot sizes (like #7 or #6) are suitable for closer ranges and often produce denser patterns, ideal for situations where turkeys are within thirty yards. Larger shot sizes (like #5 or #4) are typically used for longer ranges, as they retain more energy over distance. Some hunters even opt for sizes like #2, but this is less common for turkey hunting due to a tendency for less dense patterns at normal turkey hunting ranges. The right shot size is a crucial choice based on the terrain and your hunting methods. Be sure to check your local hunting regulations as shot size is restricted in certain areas.
Shot Material
The **shot material** is another critical element that affects performance and price.
- **Lead shot** has long been the standard for turkey hunting. It’s affordable, readily available, and delivers consistent results. However, lead has a lower density than some alternatives, leading to a shorter effective range.
- **Tungsten-based shot** offers a significant performance advantage. Tungsten is much denser than lead, resulting in tighter patterns, greater penetration, and significantly increased effective range. This higher density means that a smaller pellet of tungsten can carry more energy than a larger lead pellet over the same distance. The downside is that tungsten shells are considerably more expensive.
- **Bismuth** is another option, often used in areas where non-toxic shot is mandated. Bismuth is heavier than lead, offering decent performance, but generally not as exceptional as tungsten.
- **Steel** shot, while commonly used for waterfowl, isn’t usually the top choice for turkey hunting due to its lower density.
Pellet Count
**Pellet count** relates directly to the number of pellets within a shell. Shells with higher pellet counts theoretically produce denser patterns, meaning more pellets will hit the target within a given area at a specific range. However, higher pellet counts can also increase recoil.
Wad Design
Finally, **wad design** plays an important role in how a shell performs. The wad is a plastic component that encases the shot. It serves several key functions: protecting the shot from the friction against the barrel during firing, helping to seal the bore and increase velocity, and influencing how the shot pattern spreads after exiting the muzzle. Some wads are designed to separate from the shot quickly, promoting a tighter pattern. Others delay separation for a wider pattern. Modern wad designs contribute greatly to the overall effectiveness of a turkey load.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Shells
Choosing the best turkey shotgun shells requires careful consideration of several factors.
Your Shotgun
The most important consideration is your **shotgun** itself. Different shotguns pattern differently, even those of the same make and model. Each shotgun has its own unique characteristics. A specific choke tube, the constricted portion at the muzzle, can affect the pattern as well. The best way to find the right load for your shotgun is by experimentation through pattern testing.
Hunting Range
**Hunting range** is another vital consideration. How far away from you do you expect turkeys to be? If you primarily hunt in dense cover where shots are typically under thirty yards, a shell optimized for close-range patterns and a larger shot size might be the best choice. If you hunt in more open areas where shots can extend beyond forty yards, you’ll need a shell designed for longer-range performance, likely a tungsten or denser shot material with a smaller pellet size. Accurate range estimation skills are crucial in turkey hunting; a rangefinder is a wise investment to ensure ethical and effective shots.
Pattern Density
The **pattern density** refers to how tightly the shot pellets are grouped when they hit the target at a certain distance. You want to have a tight, even pattern to achieve a clean and humane kill. A dense pattern increases the chance of hitting vital organs. Patterning your shotgun is essential to determine which shell and choke combination produces the tightest, most consistent pattern at the ranges you intend to hunt. The goal is to get a sufficient number of pellets in a small enough area (the turkey’s head and neck) to ensure a clean harvest.
Budget
Your **budget** will also affect your decisions. Tungsten shells offer exceptional performance but can be significantly more expensive than lead-based alternatives. Factor in your hunting frequency, the cost of shells, and the overall impact on your hunting budget when making your selections. Consider if the premium performance justifies the price difference.
Local Regulations
Finally, the **local regulations** of the area where you hunt will dictate your choices. Local regulations may restrict shot size and the type of shot materials you can use (e.g., non-toxic shot only in certain areas). Always review and adhere to all local, state, and federal hunting regulations.
Top Turkey Shotgun Shells: Reviews and Recommendations
With an understanding of the components and your personal needs, it’s time to explore the best turkey shotgun shells on the market. Here are a few popular and proven options:
Federal Premium Heavyweight TSS
Widely considered to be among the best turkey loads available, Federal’s Heavyweight TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) shells pack an incredible punch. The extremely high density of the TSS pellets allows for outstanding downrange performance and very tight patterns. This shell consistently delivers excellent performance at long ranges. Many hunters have shifted to using TSS loads to significantly increase their effective range. These are generally the most expensive shells.
Winchester Longbeard XR
A reliable and affordable option, Winchester Longbeard XR shells have earned a strong reputation among turkey hunters. These shells feature a lead shot matrix combined with a unique wad design that provides tight patterns and good downrange energy transfer. Longbeard XR shells are designed to perform well at moderate ranges and are a good value for the money.
Hevi-Shot Magnum Blend
This shell provides a great balance of performance and value. Hevi-Shot Magnum Blend combines Hevi-Shot’s tungsten-based shot with lead shot for a blend of power and penetration. The Hevi-Shot blend provides impressive performance and extended range while keeping the price more manageable than a pure TSS load.
Remington Premier Magnum Turkey
A mainstay in the turkey hunting world, Remington’s Premier Magnum Turkey shells offer consistently reliable performance. These shells utilize a hardened lead shot and a quality wad design to deliver tight patterns. Available in various shot sizes, Remington Premier Magnum Turkey shells offer a straightforward, effective option for most hunting situations.
Other Notable Shells
Other options to consider include shells from companies like Browning, Fiocchi, and Apex Ammunition. These brands offer a range of loads with various shot materials, sizes, and wad designs. The best shell for you will depend on your specific shotgun and hunting conditions, so experimenting is always recommended.
Patterning Your Shotgun: Essential for Success
Choosing the right shell is only half the battle. You must pattern your shotgun to find the best combination of shell and choke for your particular firearm. Patterning is the process of shooting at a target to determine the spread and density of your shot pattern at various distances.
You’ll need a few essential items: a shooting range or safe place to shoot, a large target (turkey target or a sheet of paper at least 30″ x 30″), a measuring tape, a pencil or pen, and a solid rest to shoot from.
Begin by placing the target at a distance you commonly take shots. Thirty yards is a good starting point. Fire at the target and examine the resulting pattern. Note the number of pellet strikes within a circle approximately 10 inches in diameter, representing the vital area on a turkey. Repeat the process several times to get an average pellet count.
Carefully examine the pattern for density (the number of pellets in a given area) and evenness (the distribution of pellets across the target). An ideal pattern will be dense and relatively even, with a sufficient number of pellets in the central region (the neck and head) to guarantee a clean kill. If the pattern is too sparse or uneven, try different shells, shot sizes, or choke tubes.
Safety and Ethical Hunting Practices
Regardless of the shell you choose, always prioritize safety and ethical hunting practices.
Handle your firearm with the utmost care. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Be certain of your target and what’s beyond it before you pull the trigger. Choose shot placement carefully. Aim for the head and neck of the turkey to ensure a quick and humane kill. Respect game laws and regulations. Following these practices will contribute to a safe and enjoyable hunting experience.
Conclusion
Selecting the best turkey shotgun shells is a crucial step in maximizing your chances of a successful hunt. Understanding the different shell components, the factors that impact performance, and the importance of patterning your shotgun will empower you to make the right choices for your specific needs. Consider your shotgun, hunting ranges, pattern density, budget, and the local regulations. With diligent research and testing, you can identify the perfect turkey shotgun shells for your hunting style. Now, get out there, pattern your shotgun, and prepare for the thrill of the spring turkey season. Good luck, and may your freezer be full!
