What’s the best shotgun for turkey hunting? There was a time when the answer was clear and simple. There was a time when carrying anything less than a 12-gauge over your shoulder made you feel unprepared and outmatched. A few decades ago, turkey shooters aimed their 12-gauge shotguns at their target at a maximum distance of forty yards in order to dispatch it. But times are changing fast. Thanks to the ability to load a sub-gauge shotgun with TSS ammunition, the game has changed. As a result, the response to the query, “What’s the best shotgun for turkey hunting?” isn’t as clear-cut and simple as it once was. The opinions are changing. The question now seems to be, “Is the 20-gauge the perfect turkey gun?”.
See why the 20-gauge shotgun has become a new national favorite among spring turkey hunters by reading on.
Turkey hunters are increasingly choosing the 20-gauge shotgun as a lighter, more portable option to the conventional 12-gauge. But is a 20-gauge enough gun for turkey hunting?.
The answer is a resounding yes!
While the 12-gauge may have been the go-to for turkey hunting in the past, advancements in shotgun technology and ammunition have made the 20-gauge a viable and effective option. Here’s why:
Advantages of a 20-Gauge for Turkey Hunting:
- Lighter Weight: A 20-gauge shotgun typically weighs 1-2 pounds less than a 12-gauge, making it easier to carry and maneuver in the field. This is especially beneficial for younger hunters, women, and older hunters who may find the heavier 12-gauge cumbersome.
- Reduced Recoil: The 20-gauge produces significantly less recoil than the 12-gauge, making it a more comfortable shooting experience. This is important for maintaining accuracy and reducing flinching, which can be detrimental to your shot.
- Effective Range: Modern 20-gauge turkey loads, especially those with TSS shot, are capable of delivering lethal patterns at effective turkey hunting ranges (up to 40 yards).
- Versatility: The 20-gauge is a versatile shotgun that can be used for other types of hunting and shooting, making it a valuable addition to your firearm collection.
Things to Consider:
- Shot Size and Choke: Choosing the right shot size and choke combination is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of your 20-gauge turkey load. Consult with a knowledgeable firearms expert to determine the best setup for your specific gun and hunting situation.
- Practice: As with any firearm, practice is essential for developing proficiency and confidence. Spend time at the range getting comfortable with your 20-gauge and honing your shooting skills.
The 20-gauge shotgun is a viable and effective option for turkey hunting, offering a lighter more comfortable and versatile alternative to the 12-gauge. With the right ammunition and practice, you can confidently take on turkeys with your 20-gauge.
Additional Resources:
- NRA Family: Is a 20 Gauge Enough Gun for Turkey Hunting?
- Mossy Oak: Is the 20-Gauge the Perfect Turkey Gun?
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is the best 20-gauge turkey load?
The best 20-gauge turkey load depends on your specific gun and hunting situation. Consult with a firearms expert to determine the best option for you.
- What is the effective range of a 20-gauge for turkey hunting?
You can successfully target turkeys at distances of up to 40 yards with modern 20-gauge turkey loads.
- Is a 20-gauge enough for turkey hunting?
Absolutely! The 20-gauge is a viable and effective option for turkey hunting, offering a lighter, more comfortable, and versatile alternative to the 12-gauge.
Additional Tips:
- Choose a comfortable and well-fitting shotgun.
- Practice regularly to improve your accuracy and confidence.
- Use proper hunting techniques and safety precautions.
- Enjoy the thrill of turkey hunting with your 20-gauge shotgun!
A Lighter Gun
We typically figure out ways to bring less equipment into the woods on opening day as the season goes on. As the weather warms and the days get longer, we usually make a concerted effort to lose the weight from our turkey vest when working out for a stubborn longbeard. We travel a considerable distance every spring, so it only makes sense to ease the strain on our backs. One way to do this is with a lighter gun. That’s just one area where the 20-gauge can shine. It’s easy on the back and a pleasure to carry on all-day hunts.
What’s the difference? A hunter willing to pack a 20-gauge can drop one or two pounds depending on the type of gun they bring into the woods. You will definitely notice the difference, even though it might not seem like much, on those exhausting days when you’re wearing your turkey boots for miles at a time.
Because lighter shotshell loads are now available, turkey hunters of all skill levels can enjoy the thrill of shooting the 20-gauge. You’ll find versatility like never before when it comes to the options available for the 20-gauge turkey gun. The lighter, incredibly effective 20-gauge loads are more than sufficient to finish the task on your bird most of the time, but if you need a little extra reach, you can certainly load up the heavy loads and punish your shoulder with the recoil. A growing number of hunters across the country are moving from heavier 3 ½” turkey loads to more lightweight but still highly efficient 20-gauge loads.