The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, and its versatility extends to turkey hunting. However, achieving consistent, ethical harvests depends heavily on selecting the correct choke tube. This guide delves into the nuances of Remington 870 turkey chokes, helping you make an informed decision for your next hunt.
Understanding Choke Tubes and Their Impact on Turkey Hunting
Before diving into specific Remington 870 turkey choke options, let's clarify the fundamental role of choke tubes. A choke tube constricts the shotgun's barrel at the muzzle, influencing shot pattern density. For turkey hunting, where precise shot placement is crucial at longer ranges, selecting the right choke is paramount. A poorly chosen choke can lead to missed opportunities and wounded birds.
Key Choke Tube Considerations for Turkey Hunting:
- Shot Size: Your choice of shot size (e.g., No. 4, No. 5, No. 6) significantly impacts the ideal choke constriction. Larger shot sizes generally require less constriction.
- Range: The distance at which you'll be shooting influences choke selection. Closer shots may allow for a more open choke, while longer ranges necessitate tighter constriction for better pattern density.
- Ammunition: Different ammunition types perform differently with various chokes. Consult your ammunition manufacturer's recommendations for optimal choke pairings.
- Shotgun Model: While this guide focuses on the Remington 870, subtle variations between specific Remington 870 models might influence choke tube compatibility. Always verify compatibility before purchase.
Popular Remington 870 Turkey Choke Options
The market offers a variety of Remington 870 turkey chokes, each designed for specific hunting scenarios. Here's a breakdown of some popular choices:
1. Full Choke:
- Pattern Density: Provides the tightest pattern, ideal for longer-range shots.
- Optimal Range: Best suited for distances exceeding 40 yards (though ethical shot distances are generally much closer).
- Considerations: Can lead to overly dense patterns at closer ranges, potentially causing excessive pellet deformation and reduced lethality.
2. Extra Full Choke:
- Pattern Density: Even tighter than a full choke, offering maximum pattern density.
- Optimal Range: Intended for extreme long-range shots, though these shots should be avoided for ethical hunting reasons.
- Considerations: Overly tight for most turkey hunting scenarios, potentially leading to reduced effectiveness and increased pellet deformation.
3. Turkey Choke (Often labeled as "Improved Cylinder" or "Modified"):
- Pattern Density: Provides a good balance between pattern density and shot spread.
- Optimal Range: Suitable for a wide range of shooting distances, typically up to 40 yards.
- Considerations: A versatile option for most turkey hunters, offering good performance at various ranges.
4. Specialized Turkey Chokes (Extended Range or "Extended Extra Full"):
- Pattern Density: Designed for maximum range, with some featuring specialized internal designs.
- Optimal Range: Claims of extended range capabilities, but ethical considerations should always prioritize shorter, more reliable shots.
- Considerations: Often come with a higher price point. Carefully evaluate if the extended range is truly necessary for your hunting style and location.
Choosing the Right Choke for Your Remington 870: A Practical Approach
Instead of focusing solely on the choke's constriction, consider the overall hunting scenario. Start with a modified or improved cylinder turkey choke and pattern your shotgun at various distances with your chosen ammunition. This will give you real-world data on your shotgun's performance with different chokes, helping you fine-tune your setup for optimal effectiveness and ethical hunting practices.
Beyond the Choke: Factors Influencing Success
Remember, the choke tube is just one piece of the puzzle. Successful turkey hunting relies on several factors including:
- Shot placement: Accurate shot placement is paramount, regardless of the choke used.
- Ammunition quality: High-quality turkey loads are essential for consistent performance.
- Practice: Regular practice with your shotgun and chosen choke is crucial for developing good shooting skills.
- Stealth and calling: Approaching turkeys undetected and utilizing effective calling techniques are critical for success.
By understanding choke tube characteristics and adopting a practical approach to pattern testing, you can optimize your Remington 870 for a successful turkey hunting season. Remember to always prioritize ethical hunting practices, respecting the game and ensuring a clean kill.
