Choosing the right ammunition is crucial for a successful turkey hunt. With so many options available, understanding the nuances of 20 gauge turkey shells can significantly improve your chances of bagging a bird. This guide delves into the key factors to consider when selecting 20 gauge turkey shells, ensuring you're well-equipped for your next hunt.
Why Choose 20 Gauge for Turkey Hunting?
While 12 gauge remains the dominant choice, 20 gauge turkey shells offer compelling advantages:
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Reduced Recoil: The lighter recoil makes 20 gauge shotguns more comfortable to shoot, especially for those new to turkey hunting or those with less upper body strength. This translates to quicker follow-up shots, a critical factor in fast-paced turkey hunting situations.
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Lighter Weight: A lighter shotgun means less fatigue during long hunts, allowing you to cover more ground and remain alert.
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Improved Accuracy: For many hunters, the lighter weight and reduced recoil contribute to improved accuracy.
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More Ammunition Capacity: Some hunters prefer the ability to carry more shots with the lighter 20 gauge loads.
Key Considerations When Choosing 20 Gauge Turkey Shells
Selecting the right 20 gauge turkey shell involves careful consideration of several factors:
1. Shot Size:
- #4 Shot: A popular choice, offering a good balance of penetration and pattern density. Ideal for closer-range shots.
- #5 Shot: A slightly smaller shot size, suitable for longer-range shots where maintaining pattern density is crucial.
- #6 Shot: Even smaller than #5, offering less penetration but a tighter pattern. Best suited for very close-range shots.
The choice depends on your hunting style and typical shot distances. Consider practicing with different shot sizes to determine your preference and what works best for your firearm.
2. Shot Type:
- Lead Shot: While effective, lead shot is increasingly restricted due to environmental concerns. Check your local regulations before using lead shot.
- Hevi-Shot: A denser, more effective alternative to lead, offering improved penetration and range.
- Tungsten-Matrix: Similar to Hevi-Shot but even denser, leading to exceptional penetration and knockdown power.
- Steel Shot: A widely available and environmentally friendly option, although it may not offer the same penetration as Hevi-Shot or Tungsten-Matrix.
The choice of shot type involves a trade-off between cost, effectiveness, and environmental impact. Research what's permitted in your hunting area and choose accordingly.
3. Shell Length:
Most 20 gauge turkey shells are available in 2 ¾ inch and 3 inch lengths. Longer shells generally hold more shot, leading to increased pattern density and range. However, your shotgun's specifications will determine the maximum shell length it can handle. Always check your firearm's manual before selecting shells.
4. Choke Tube:
The choke tube significantly impacts the shot pattern. A tighter choke (e.g., extra-full or full) provides a tighter pattern at longer ranges, while a more open choke (e.g., modified or improved cylinder) is suitable for closer ranges. Experimenting with different choke tubes is essential to finding the optimal combination for your shotgun and hunting style.
Maximizing Your Success with 20 Gauge Turkey Shells
Beyond choosing the right ammunition, other factors influence your hunting success:
- Practice: Regular practice is essential to master your shooting skills and ensure you're comfortable with your shotgun and chosen ammunition.
- Proper Gun Fit: A shotgun that fits you well is crucial for accuracy and comfort.
- Understanding Turkey Behavior: Learning about turkey habits, calls, and behavior significantly improves your chances of a successful hunt.
By carefully considering these factors and investing time in practice, you'll dramatically increase your chances of a successful turkey hunt using 20 gauge shells. Remember always to prioritize safety and follow all hunting regulations.
