Choosing the right ammunition is crucial for a successful turkey hunt. While many factors influence your choice, the gauge of your shotgun is a primary consideration. This guide delves into the specifics of 20 gauge turkey shells, exploring their advantages, disadvantages, and helping you determine if they're the right fit for your hunting style.
Why Choose 20 Gauge for Turkey Hunting?
20 gauge turkey shells offer a compelling alternative to the more popular 12 gauge. While 12 gauge shells pack a significant punch, the 20 gauge presents several key advantages:
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Reduced Recoil: This is a major benefit, especially for newer hunters or those with less upper body strength. The lighter recoil makes for a more comfortable shooting experience, leading to better accuracy and follow-up shots.
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Lighter Weight: A lighter gun is easier to carry throughout the day, improving your stamina and readiness for those crucial moments. This is particularly advantageous during long hunts or when navigating challenging terrain.
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Improved Maneuverability: The lighter weight and often smaller frame of 20 gauge shotguns contribute to improved maneuverability, making them ideal for navigating dense woods and tight spaces where quick target acquisition is essential.
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Less Noise: While the difference isn't drastic, 20 gauge shotguns generally produce slightly less noise than their 12 gauge counterparts, potentially reducing the risk of spooking birds.
Considerations When Choosing 20 Gauge Turkey Shells:
Despite the advantages, there are factors to consider before selecting 20 gauge for turkey hunting:
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Reduced Payload: Compared to 12 gauge shells, 20 gauge shells generally carry a smaller shot payload. This means you might need to be more precise with your shots and potentially need to place shots more carefully for a clean kill.
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Pattern Variation: The smaller payload can lead to greater pattern variation between different shell types and brands. Thorough patterning with your specific shotgun and chosen ammunition is crucial for optimal performance.
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Effective Range: While modern 20 gauge turkey loads are impressively effective, their effective range may be slightly shorter compared to 12 gauge. Accurate shots at longer ranges may require more precise shot placement.
Selecting the Right 20 Gauge Turkey Shell:
Choosing the best shell involves considering several factors:
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Shot Size: Popular choices for 20 gauge turkey shells include #4, #5, and #6 shot. #4 shot offers good penetration and pattern density, while #5 and #6 are suitable for shorter ranges where penetration is less critical.
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Shot Type: Tungsten-based shot offers superior density and penetration compared to lead, enabling effective longer-range shooting with a lighter payload. However, tungsten shells are generally more expensive.
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Choke Tube: Using the correct choke tube is vital for maximizing your pattern density and accuracy. Full or extra-full chokes are commonly used for turkey hunting with 20 gauge shotguns.
Conclusion: Is 20 Gauge Right for You?
20 gauge turkey shells present a viable and often superior option for many hunters. Their reduced recoil, lighter weight, and improved maneuverability make them an excellent choice for those prioritizing comfort and ease of handling. However, it's essential to carefully consider the reduced payload and effective range and meticulously pattern your shotgun and chosen ammunition to ensure optimal performance and ethical hunting practices. A thorough understanding of your specific hunting circumstances and personal shooting abilities will ultimately determine if a 20 gauge is the right choice for your next turkey hunt.
