The Best 20 Gauge Shotgun for Turkey Hunting: A Buyer’s Guide

The Best 20 Gauge Shotgun for Turkey Hunting

Turkey hunting is a challenging and rewarding sport, and the right shotgun can make all the difference. A good turkey shotgun should be lightweight, easy to carry, and have a wide range of chokes to accommodate different shooting conditions.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different factors to consider when choosing a turkey shotgun, and we’ll recommend some of the best 20 gauge shotguns on the market. We’ll also provide tips on how to use a turkey shotgun effectively.

So whether you’re a seasoned turkey hunter or you’re just getting started, read on for all the information you need to choose the best 20 gauge shotgun for your next hunt!

Rank	Shotgun	Price
1	Mossberg 500 20-gauge	$300
2	Remington 870 Express 20-gauge	$250
3	Winchester SXP 20-gauge	$350

Introduction

Turkey hunting is a challenging and rewarding sport that requires a good shotgun. A 20 gauge shotgun is a popular choice for turkey hunting because it is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a good option for hunters of all skill levels. However, there are a number of factors to consider when choosing a 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting, including shot size, choke, barrel length, weight, stock type, trigger, and safety.

In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when choosing a 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting and recommend some of the best options on the market.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a 20 Gauge Shotgun for Turkey Hunting

Shot Size

The shot size refers to the diameter of the pellets in a shotgun shell. The most common shot sizes for turkey hunting are 7 1/2, 8, and 9. Shot size is important because it affects the range and pattern of your shotgun. A smaller shot size will have a tighter pattern and will be more effective at longer ranges, while a larger shot size will have a wider pattern and will be more effective at shorter ranges.

For turkey hunting, a shot size of 7 1/2 or 8 is a good option. This shot size will provide a good balance of range and pattern, making it effective for taking turkeys at all distances.

Choke

The choke is a device that is installed in the end of the shotgun barrel and helps to improve the shot pattern. There are a variety of chokes available, each with its own unique characteristics. The most common chokes for turkey hunting are the improved cylinder choke, the modified choke, and the full choke.

The improved cylinder choke provides a wide shot pattern, making it a good option for turkeys that are close. The modified choke provides a tighter shot pattern, making it a good option for turkeys that are at a moderate distance. The full choke provides the tightest shot pattern, making it a good option for turkeys that are at a long distance.

When choosing a choke for turkey hunting, it is important to consider the range at which you will be shooting. If you will be shooting at turkeys that are close, then an improved cylinder choke or a modified choke is a good option. If you will be shooting at turkeys that are at a moderate or long distance, then a full choke is a good option.

Barrel Length

The barrel length of a shotgun refers to the distance from the end of the receiver to the end of the barrel. The most common barrel lengths for turkey hunting are 26 inches, 28 inches, and 30 inches. Barrel length is important because it affects the weight and balance of the shotgun. A shorter barrel will be lighter and easier to maneuver, while a longer barrel will be more stable and accurate.

For turkey hunting, a barrel length of 26 inches or 28 inches is a good option. This barrel length provides a good balance of weight, maneuverability, and stability.

Weight

The weight of a shotgun is important because it affects the handling of the shotgun. A heavier shotgun will be more stable and accurate, but it will also be more difficult to carry. A lighter shotgun will be easier to carry, but it may be less stable and accurate.

For turkey hunting, a shotgun that weighs between 6 and 8 pounds is a good option. This weight range provides a good balance of weight, stability, and maneuverability.

Stock Type

The stock type of a shotgun refers to the design of the stock. The most common stock types for turkey hunting are the straight stock, the pistol grip stock, and the semi-automatic stock.

The straight stock is the most traditional stock type and provides the most comfortable shooting position. The pistol grip stock is designed to be more compact and maneuverable, and it is a good option for hunters who have smaller hands. The semi-automatic stock is designed for shotguns that have a semi-automatic action, and it provides a more comfortable shooting position for hunters who shoot quickly.

For turkey hunting, a straight stock or a pistol grip stock is a good option. These stock types provide a good balance of comfort and maneuverability.

Trigger

The trigger of a shotgun is important because it affects the smoothness and accuracy of the shot. A smooth trigger will make it easier to fire the shotgun accurately, while a heavy trigger will make it more difficult to fire the shotgun accurately.

For turkey hunting, a trigger that is between 3 and 5 pounds is a good option. This weight range provides a good balance of smoothness and accuracy.

Safety

The safety of a shotgun is important because it prevents the shotgun from firing accidentally. There are a variety of safety mechanisms available, each with its own unique characteristics. The most common safety mechanisms are the cross-bolt safety, the tang safety,

What is the best 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting. Some of the most important factors include:

* Your shooting ability. If you are a novice turkey hunter, you may want to choose a shotgun that is easier to shoot, such as a lightweight model with a shorter barrel. More experienced turkey hunters may want a shotgun with a longer barrel and more recoil, which can help you to make longer shots.
* The type of terrain where you will be hunting. If you will be hunting in thick brush, you will want a shotgun with a shorter barrel so that it is easier to maneuver. If you will be hunting in open areas, you may want a shotgun with a longer barrel for increased accuracy.
* Your budget. The price of a 20 gauge shotgun can vary significantly, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. You will need to decide how much you are willing to spend on a shotgun before you start shopping.

Here are some of the best 20 gauge shotguns for turkey hunting:

* Remington 870 Express Turkey. The Remington 870 Express Turkey is a popular choice for turkey hunters because it is affordable, reliable, and easy to use. It has a 26-inch barrel and a 3-inch chamber, and it is available in a variety of camo patterns.
* Mossberg 500 Turkey. The Mossberg 500 Turkey is another great option for turkey hunters. It is similar to the Remington 870 Express Turkey, but it has a few additional features, such as a fiber-optic front sight and a Mossberg’s patented Lightning Bolt Action.
* Winchester SXP Turkey. The Winchester SXP Turkey is a lightweight and compact shotgun that is perfect for turkey hunters who need to maneuver through thick brush. It has a 24-inch barrel and a 3-inch chamber, and it is available in a variety of camo patterns.
* Benelli Super Black Eagle II. The Benelli Super Black Eagle II is a high-end shotgun that is perfect for experienced turkey hunters who demand the best. It has a 28-inch barrel and a 3-inch chamber, and it is available in a variety of camo patterns.

Tips for using a 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting

Here are a few tips for using a 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting:

* Practice shooting at different ranges. The most important factor in turkey hunting is being able to make a clean shot. The best way to do this is to practice shooting at different ranges, so that you are confident in your ability to hit a turkey at any distance.
* Use a camouflaged shotgun. Turkeys have excellent eyesight, so it is important to use a camouflaged shotgun that will help you to blend in with your surroundings.
* Call in the turkeys. Turkeys are very vocal birds, and they can often be called in using a variety of calls. Once you have called in a turkey, you will need to be patient and wait for it to get within range.
* Be patient. Turkey hunting can be a very slow and patient process. It is important to be patient and wait for the right opportunity to take your shot.

Frequently asked questions about 20 gauge shotguns for turkey hunting

What is the best shot size for turkey hunting?

The best shot size for turkey hunting depends on the range at which you will be shooting. For shots at 20 yards or less, a 7 shot is a good option. For shots at 30 yards or more, a 6 shot is a better choice.

What is the best choke for turkey hunting?

The best choke for turkey hunting depends on the range at which you will be shooting. For shots at 20 yards or less, a modified choke is a good option. For shots at 30 yards or more, a full choke is a better choice.

What is the best barrel length for turkey hunting?

The best barrel length for turkey hunting depends on the type of terrain where you will be hunting. For hunting in thick brush, a shorter barrel is a better choice. For hunting in open areas, a longer barrel is a better choice.

How much does a 20 gauge shotgun cost?

The price of a 20 gauge shotgun can vary significantly, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price of a shotgun will depend on the brand, the features, and the quality of the shotgun