The Best Shotgun for Turkey Hunting: A Buyer’s Guide
The Best Shotgun for Turkey Hunting
Spring is in the air, and that means it’s time to start thinking about turkey hunting. If you’re new to the sport, or if you’re just looking to upgrade your gear, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing a shotgun.
There are a lot of different factors to consider when choosing a turkey shotgun, including the type of choke you need, the length of the barrel, and the weight of the gun. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at all of these factors and help you choose the best shotgun for your next turkey hunt.
We’ll also provide some tips on how to use your shotgun effectively and safely. So whether you’re a seasoned turkey hunter or a novice, read on for all the information you need to make the best decision for your next hunt.
| Rank | Shotgun | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mossberg 500 | $300 |
| 2 | Remington 870 | $350 |
| 3 | Winchester SXP | $400 |
Choosing the Right Gauge for Turkey Hunting
The gauge of a shotgun refers to the diameter of the barrel, which is measured in inches. The most common gauges for turkey hunting are 12, 20, and .410.
12 gauge
The 12 gauge is the most popular gauge for turkey hunting, and for good reason. It is a versatile round that can handle a variety of loads, from light birdshot for close-range shots to heavy slugs for longer shots. 12 gauge shotguns are also relatively affordable and easy to find.
20 gauge
The 20 gauge is a good option for turkey hunters who are looking for a lighter and more maneuverable shotgun. It is also a good choice for younger or smaller hunters who may not have the strength to handle a 12 gauge. 20 gauge shotguns are typically more expensive than 12 gauge shotguns, but they are still relatively affordable.
.410 bore
The .410 bore is a good option for turkey hunters who are looking for a small and lightweight shotgun. It is also a good choice for hunters who are hunting in thick brush or other areas where a larger shotgun would be difficult to maneuver. .410 bore shotguns are typically the most expensive of the three gauges, but they are still relatively affordable.
Which gauge is right for you?
The best way to decide which gauge is right for you is to try out a few different shotguns in different gauges. See how they feel in your hands and how they shoot. You should also consider the type of hunting you will be doing and the loads you will be using.
If you are not sure which gauge to choose, a 12 gauge is a good all-around option. It is powerful enough for most turkey hunting situations, and it is also relatively affordable and easy to find.
Barrel Length and Choke for Turkey Hunting
The barrel length and choke of a shotgun can have a significant impact on its performance for turkey hunting.
Barrel length
The barrel length of a shotgun refers to the distance from the breech to the muzzle. The most common barrel lengths for turkey hunting are 26, 28, and 30 inches.
Shorter barrels are more maneuverable in tight spots, but they have a shorter sight radius and less muzzle velocity. Longer barrels are more accurate for longer shots, but they are also heavier and more difficult to carry.
For most turkey hunting situations, a barrel length of 28 inches is a good compromise between maneuverability and accuracy.
Choke
The choke of a shotgun refers to the constriction of the barrel at the muzzle. Chokes are used to improve the accuracy of a shotgun by forcing the shot to spread out in a more consistent pattern.
The most common chokes for turkey hunting are improved cylinder, modified, and full. Improved cylinder chokes produce the widest shot pattern, which is ideal for close-range shots. Modified chokes produce a tighter shot pattern, which is ideal for longer shots. Full chokes produce the tightest shot pattern, which is ideal for very long shots.
The type of choke you choose will depend on the type of hunting you will be doing and the loads you will be using.
If you are not sure which choke to choose, a modified choke is a good all-around option. It is versatile enough to handle a variety of loads and situations.
Choosing the right shotgun for turkey hunting can be a challenge, but it is important to consider the factors discussed in this article. By taking the time to choose the right gauge, barrel length, and choke, you can increase your chances of success in the turkey woods.
there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what is the best shotgun for turkey hunting. The best shotgun for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, the shotguns discussed in this article are all excellent options for turkey hunting and should give you a good starting point for your search.
When choosing a shotgun for turkey hunting, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Your shooting ability: If you are a novice shooter, you may want to choose a shotgun that is easier to shoot, such as a lightweight pump-action shotgun.
- The type of terrain you will be hunting in: If you will be hunting in thick brush, you will want a shotgun with a shorter barrel. If you will be hunting in open fields, you may want a shotgun with a longer barrel.
- Your budget: Shotguns can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Choose a shotgun that fits your budget and your needs.
No matter what your individual needs and preferences are, there is a shotgun out there that is perfect for you. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can find the best shotgun for turkey hunting and enjoy many successful hunts in the future.