What Is the Best 20 Gauge Shotgun for Turkey Hunting?
When it comes to turkey hunting, choosing the right shotgun can make all the difference between a successful harvest and a missed opportunity. While 12-gauge shotguns have long been the standard for many hunters, the 20 gauge has steadily gained popularity for its lighter weight, reduced recoil, and impressive effectiveness in the field. But with so many options available, what is the best 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting?
Selecting the ideal 20 gauge shotgun involves considering factors such as barrel length, choke options, weight, and overall handling. Turkey hunting demands precision and quick follow-up shots, so the shotgun you choose must balance power with maneuverability. Additionally, the right firearm should complement your hunting style and terrain, ensuring you’re ready to respond swiftly when a turkey appears.
In the following sections, we’ll explore key features to look for in a 20 gauge turkey hunting shotgun, discuss some of the top models favored by seasoned hunters, and provide insight into how to make the best choice for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned turkey hunter or just starting out, understanding what makes a shotgun stand out in the field will help you gear up for a rewarding hunting season.
Key Features to Consider in a 20 Gauge Shotgun for Turkey Hunting
When selecting a 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting, several critical features can significantly impact performance and hunter satisfaction. Understanding these elements ensures you choose a firearm that balances power, accuracy, and maneuverability in the field.
One of the most important features is choke selection. Turkey hunting often requires tight shot patterns for effective range and pellet density. Many 20 gauge shotguns come with interchangeable chokes, allowing hunters to customize the spread of their shot. Look for models that include turkey-specific chokes or extended chokes designed to improve patterning with heavier turkey loads.
Barrel length also influences shotgun handling and shot velocity. Shorter barrels (around 20-24 inches) enhance maneuverability in dense brush, while longer barrels (26-28 inches) can provide a smoother swing and slightly higher shot velocity, which may extend effective range.
Another factor is weight. A lighter shotgun reduces fatigue during long stalking sessions, but it must still have enough mass to absorb recoil comfortably. The 20 gauge is naturally lighter than the 12 gauge, making it an excellent choice for hunters seeking less recoil without sacrificing terminal performance.
Additional features that enhance turkey hunting experience include:
- Fiber optic sights or bead: Bright, highly visible front sights enable quick target acquisition.
- Semi-automatic vs. pump-action: Semi-automatics offer faster follow-up shots, while pump-actions are often more reliable with a variety of loads.
- Magazine capacity: Most turkey hunting laws restrict shots to a limited number of rounds, but having a capacity of 4-5 rounds can be advantageous.
- Ergonomics and stock design: Adjustable stocks or recoil pads improve comfort and shooting accuracy.
Comparison of Top 20 Gauge Shotguns for Turkey Hunting
Below is a comparison of some of the leading 20 gauge shotguns favored by turkey hunters, highlighting their key specifications and features:
| Model | Action | Barrel Length | Weight (lbs) | Choke Options | Sight Type | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benelli Super Nova | Pump-action | 24″ | 7.7 | Interchangeable, includes turkey choke | Fiber optic front bead | Robust build, reliable cycling, cold weather performance |
| Mossberg 500 Turkey | Pump-action | 24″ | 6.5 | Interchangeable turkey choke included | Fiber optic front sight | Affordable, proven reliability, lightweight |
| Remington 870 Express Turkey | Pump-action | 24″ | 6.9 | Interchangeable turkey choke included | Fiber optic front sight | Classic design, excellent aftermarket support |
| Browning BPS Turkey | Pump-action | 24″ | 7.5 | Interchangeable turkey choke included | Fiber optic front sight | Bottom ejection, durable construction |
| Beretta A400 Xplor | Semi-automatic | 24″ | 6.7 | Interchangeable chokes including turkey | Fiber optic front bead | Fast cycling, low recoil, advanced gas system |
Shot Shell Selection for 20 Gauge Turkey Hunting
Choosing the right ammunition is just as crucial as selecting the shotgun itself. Turkey hunting requires loads that deliver tight patterns and enough energy to ensure ethical kills. For 20 gauge shotguns, the following considerations apply:
- Shot size: Popular turkey loads use shot sizes ranging from 5 to 9. 6 and 7.5 shot sizes are common for 20 gauge to balance pellet count and energy.
- Shell length and velocity: 3-inch or 3½-inch shells provide additional powder capacity and velocity, improving pattern density and effective range.
- Shot material: Lead remains standard, but steel and other non-toxic alternatives are necessary in certain areas due to environmental regulations.
- Pattern testing: Before hunting, pattern your shotgun with different loads and chokes to find the best combination that delivers tight, dense patterns at typical turkey hunting distances (30-40 yards).
Maintenance Tips for Optimal Performance
Proper maintenance ensures your 20 gauge shotgun continues to function reliably and accurately season after season. Key maintenance tips for turkey hunting shotguns include:
- Regular cleaning: After each hunt, clean the barrel and action to prevent corrosion caused by moisture and powder residue.
- Inspect choke tubes: Remove, clean, and lubricate choke tubes to prevent seizing and maintain consistent shot patterns.
- Check sights and stock: Ensure fiber optic sights remain bright and unobstructed. Inspect the stock for cracks or loose fittings.
- Lubrication: Apply appropriate gun oil to moving parts to reduce wear and prevent rust.
- Storage:
Top Considerations for Selecting a 20 Gauge Shotgun for Turkey Hunting
Choosing the best 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting involves a nuanced balance of factors to maximize accuracy, power, and comfort in the field. Turkey hunting demands a firearm that offers tight patterns, manageable recoil, and effective range to ensure ethical kills on wary birds.
Key considerations include:
- Gauge and chamber size: 20 gauge shotguns typically offer lighter recoil compared to 12 gauge, which benefits long hunts. Chamber sizes usually range between 2¾ to 3 inches, with 3-inch chambers allowing heavier turkey loads.
- Barrel length and choke options: Longer barrels (26 to 28 inches) provide improved sight radius and velocity, beneficial for longer shots common in turkey hunting. Interchangeable chokes or fixed turkey-specific chokes optimize shot patterns.
- Weight and balance: A well-balanced shotgun under 7 pounds facilitates quick target acquisition and reduces fatigue during long walks.
- Action type: Pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns are popular for turkey hunting. Pumps offer reliability under harsh conditions, while semi-automatics allow faster follow-up shots.
- Sighting system: A fiber optic front bead or ghost ring sights help acquire fast-moving birds, while some hunters prefer mounting a red dot or low-power scope.
- Ammunition compatibility: The shotgun should cycle reliably with turkey-specific loads, which usually include heavier shot sizes like No. 5, 6, or 7 steel or lead shot.
Recommended 20 Gauge Shotguns for Turkey Hunting
| Model | Action | Barrel Length | Choke Options | Weight | Special Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Browning BPS 20 Gauge | Pump-action | 26″ | Fixed Full Choke (turkey choke available) | 7.25 lbs | Bottom ejection, robust build, reliable under all conditions | $$$ |
| Mossberg 500 Turkey 20 Gauge | Pump-action | 26″ | Multiple interchangeable chokes including turkey choke | 6.9 lbs | Ghost ring sights, camo finish, affordable and durable | $$ |
| Benelli SuperNova 20 Gauge | Pump-action | 24″ | Interchangeable chokes including turkey choke | 6.9 lbs | Inertia-driven action, soft recoil pad, excellent balance | $$$ |
| Remington Versa Max Turkey 20 Gauge | Semi-automatic | 26″ | Interchangeable chokes including turkey choke | 6.75 lbs | Adjustable gas system for reliable cycling, comfortable stock | $$$$ |
| Winchester SX4 20 Gauge Turkey | Semi-automatic | 26″ | Interchangeable chokes including turkey choke | 6.6 lbs | In-line inertia-driven system, durable synthetic stock | $$$ |
Performance Characteristics Critical to Turkey Hunting
Beyond features and specifications, the following performance traits determine the practical effectiveness of a 20 gauge shotgun in turkey hunting scenarios:
- Pattern density: Turkey hunting requires tight shot patterns at 40 to 50 yards. Chokes specifically designed for turkey loads concentrate pellets into a dense pattern, increasing hit probability.
- Recoil management: Although 20 gauge shotguns generally have less recoil than 12 gauge, turkey loads can still deliver noticeable kick. Features like recoil pads and balanced weight distribution are important to maintain accuracy.
- Trigger quality: A crisp, light trigger pull helps prevent flinching and improves shot precision, especially when aiming at small targets like a turkey’s head or neck.
- Durability and weather resistance: Turkey hunting often takes place in wet or rugged terrain. Corrosion-resistant finishes and synthetic stocks contribute to reliable performance over time.
- Ease of maintenance: Simple disassembly and cleaning are valuable, as turkey hunters often carry and clean their shotgun in field conditions.
Popular Turkey Choke Tubes and Ammunition for 20 Gauge Shotguns
Optimizing the performance of a 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting also depends heavily on selecting the appropriate choke tubes and ammunition types.
