The Best Turkey Hunting Shells for Every Situation

What Shells to Use for Turkey Hunting

Turkey hunting is a challenging and rewarding pursuit, and one of the most important factors in success is choosing the right ammunition. The type of shell you use will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the turkey, the range at which you’ll be shooting, and your personal preferences.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of turkey shells available, and help you choose the best ones for your needs. We’ll also cover some tips on how to shoot turkeys effectively.

So whether you’re a seasoned turkey hunter or you’re just getting started, read on for all the information you need to know about choosing the right shells for turkey hunting.

Shell Type	Shot Size	Recommended Uses
Lead	7.5-8.5 shot	Good for close range shots
Steel	8-9 shot	Good for long range shots
Hemp	9-10 shot	Good for very long range shots

Choosing the Right Gauge

The gauge of a shotgun refers to the diameter of the barrel, which is measured in inches. The most common gauges for turkey hunting are 12, 20, and 28.

12 gauge shotguns are the most popular choice for turkey hunting, as they offer a good balance of power and shot spread. 12 gauge shotguns fire 1-ounce shells, which are capable of taking down turkeys at up to 50 yards.

20 gauge shotguns are a good option for smaller hunters or those who prefer a lighter shotgun. 20 gauge shotguns fire 7/8-ounce shells, which are still powerful enough to take down turkeys at close range.

28 gauge shotguns are the lightest and most maneuverable option, but they are also the least powerful. 28 gauge shotguns fire 3/4-ounce shells, which are only effective at close range.

Ultimately, the best gauge for turkey hunting is the one that you are most comfortable shooting. If you are new to turkey hunting, a 12 gauge shotgun is a good place to start. As you gain more experience, you may want to consider trying a smaller gauge shotgun.

Choosing the Right Shot Size

The shot size of a shotgun shell refers to the diameter of the pellets, which is measured in inches. The most common shot sizes for turkey hunting are 7 1/2, 8, and 9.

7 1/2 shot is the most popular choice for turkey hunting, as it provides a good balance of pellet size and pattern density. 7 1/2 shot pellets are large enough to penetrate a turkey’s skull, but they are also small enough to produce a tight pattern.

8 shot is a good option for hunters who want a little more pellet spread. 8 shot pellets are smaller than 7 1/2 shot pellets, but they are still large enough to penetrate a turkey’s skull.

9 shot is a good option for hunters who are hunting in thick cover. 9 shot pellets are the smallest option, but they produce a very wide pattern.

Ultimately, the best shot size for turkey hunting is the one that you are most comfortable shooting. If you are new to turkey hunting, a 7 1/2 shot shell is a good place to start. As you gain more experience, you may want to consider trying a different shot size.

Conclusion

When choosing a shotgun and shot size for turkey hunting, it is important to consider the following factors:

* Your experience level
* The type of terrain you will be hunting
* The distance at which you will be taking shots

By taking these factors into account, you can choose a shotgun and shot size that will give you the best chance of success.

Choosing the Right Type of Shell

When it comes to choosing the right type of shell for turkey hunting, there are a few factors to consider.

The Size of the Turkey

The first thing you need to think about is the size of the turkey you’re hunting. If you’re hunting small turkeys, you’ll want to use a smaller shell. If you’re hunting larger turkeys, you’ll want to use a larger shell.

The Range of Your Shot

Another thing to consider is the range of your shot. If you’re shooting at a turkey that’s close to you, you can get away with using a smaller shell. If you’re shooting at a turkey that’s further away, you’ll need to use a larger shell.

The Type of Choke Tube You’re Using

The type of choke tube you’re using can also affect the size of the shell you need. A tighter choke tube will produce a tighter shot pattern, so you can get away with using a smaller shell. A wider choke tube will produce a wider shot pattern, so you’ll need to use a larger shell.

Your Personal Preferences

Finally, you also need to consider your personal preferences. Some people prefer to use smaller shells because they’re easier to shoot. Others prefer to use larger shells because they’re more powerful.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right type of shell for turkey hunting is to experiment with different types and sizes until you find what works best for you.

Practicing with Your Chosen Shells

Once you’ve chosen the right type of shell for turkey hunting, it’s important to practice with them so that you can become proficient at shooting them.

The best way to practice is to go to a shooting range and shoot at some targets. You should start by shooting at close targets, and then gradually increase the distance as you become more comfortable.

It’s also important to practice shooting at different angles. Turkeys are often found in trees, so you’ll need to be able to shoot at them from different positions.

The more you practice, the better you’ll become at shooting your chosen shells. This will give you a better chance of successfully harvesting a turkey when you’re out in the field.

Choosing the right type of shell for turkey hunting is an important decision. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can choose the shells that will give you the best chance of success.

Remember, the best way to find out what works best for you is to experiment with different types and sizes of shells. So get out to the range and start practicing!

What is the best shotgun shell for turkey hunting?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best shotgun shell for turkey hunting will vary depending on factors such as the type of shotgun you are using, the range at which you will be shooting, and the weather conditions. However, some general tips to consider when choosing a shotgun shell for turkey hunting include:

* Use a shotgun shell that is loaded with a high-quality, lead-free shot. Lead shot is illegal for use in some states, and it can also be harmful to turkeys.
* Choose a shotgun shell that has a shot size that is appropriate for the range at which you will be shooting. For example, if you will be shooting at a turkey that is within 20 yards, you will want to use a shotgun shell that is loaded with a smaller shot size, such as 7. If you will be shooting at a turkey that is further away, you will want to use a shotgun shell that is loaded with a larger shot size, such as 4.
* Consider the weather conditions when choosing a shotgun shell. If you will be hunting in cold weather, you will want to use a shotgun shell that is loaded with a hard shot, as this will help to prevent the shot from becoming brittle and breaking up in the cold air.

What is the difference between a turkey load and a slug?

A turkey load is a type of shotgun shell that is specifically designed for hunting turkeys. Turkey loads are typically loaded with a smaller shot size than other types of shotgun shells, and they are also designed to produce a tighter pattern of shot. This makes them ideal for hunting turkeys at close range.

A slug is a type of shotgun shell that is designed to be fired from a smoothbore shotgun. Slugs are typically made of lead or steel, and they are designed to travel a long distance with a high degree of accuracy. This makes them ideal for hunting deer, hogs, and other large game.

How many pellets should a turkey load have?

The number of pellets in a turkey load will vary depending on the shot size of the shell. For example, a 7 shot shell will typically have around 150 pellets, while a 4 shot shell will typically have around 90 pellets.

The number of pellets in a turkey load is important because it affects the pattern of shot. A shell with a higher number of pellets will produce a tighter pattern of shot, which is ideal for hunting turkeys at close range. However, a shell with a lower number of pellets will produce a wider pattern of shot, which is ideal for hunting turkeys at longer ranges.

What is the best range for turkey hunting?

The best range for turkey hunting will vary depending on the type of shotgun you are using, the shot size of the shell, and the weather conditions. However, a good rule of thumb is to try to keep your shots within 40 yards. This will give you the best chance of making a clean kill.

What are the best shotgun chokes for turkey hunting?

The best shotgun choke for turkey hunting will vary depending on the type of shotgun you are using, the shot size of the shell, and the weather conditions. However, some general tips to consider when choosing a shotgun choke for turkey hunting include:

* Use a choke that is designed for turkey hunting. These chokes are typically designed to produce a tighter pattern of shot, which is ideal for hunting turkeys at close range.
* Choose a choke that is appropriate for the range at which you will be shooting. For example, if you will be shooting at a turkey that is within 20 yards, you will want to use a choke that is designed for close range shooting. If you will be shooting at a turkey that is further away, you will want to use a choke that is designed for longer range shooting.
* Consider the weather conditions when choosing a shotgun choke. If you will be hunting in cold weather, you will want to use a choke that is designed to help prevent the shot from becoming brittle and breaking up in the cold air.

What are the best tips for turkey hunting?

Here are some tips for turkey hunting:

* Scout the area before you hunt. This will help you to find the best areas to set up your blind and to identify the best places to call turkeys.
* Use a decoy or call to attract turkeys. Turkeys are very vocal birds, and they can often be lured in with the right call.
* Be patient. Turkey hunting can be a slow and frustrating process,

there are a few key factors to consider when choosing the best turkey shells for your hunting needs. The most important factor is the size of the turkey you are hunting. If you are hunting small turkeys, you will need a smaller shell with less shot. If you are hunting larger turkeys, you will need a larger shell with more shot. You also need to consider the choke on your shotgun. A tighter choke will produce a more concentrated pattern of shot, which is ideal for longer shots. A looser choke will produce a wider pattern of shot, which is ideal for shorter shots. Finally, you need to consider your personal preference. Some hunters prefer heavier shells, while others prefer lighter shells. Some hunters prefer lead shot, while others prefer steel shot. Ultimately, the best turkey shells for you are the ones that you are most comfortable shooting and that produce the results you are looking for.