Turkey hunting is one of the most popular hunting activities in the United States, and it requires the use of specialized ammunition. Choosing the right turkey load for your 12 gauge shotgun can be a daunting task, as there are so many options available on the market. In this article, we will provide you with a short guide on the key points to consider when looking for the best turkey loads for 12 gauge.
Firstly, you need to consider the shot size. This is crucial because the size of the shot determines how many pellets are in the shell, and how many of those pellets will hit the turkey. The most common shot sizes for turkey hunting are #4, #5, and #6.
Secondly, you should consider the weight of the shot. Heavier shot will carry more energy and penetrate deeper, but lighter shot will have a denser pattern and more pellets. The most common shot weights for turkey hunting are 1 ¾ oz and 2 oz.
Thirdly, you need to consider the velocity of the load. This is important because it determines the energy of the shot and the distance it can effectively reach. The most common velocities for turkey loads are between 1200 and 1400 feet per second.
Fourthly, you should consider the type of wad used in the shell. A good wad can help to keep the shot pattern tight and consistent, while a poor wad can cause the shot to spread too quickly.
Finally, you need to consider the brand of the ammunition. There are many reputable brands that produce high-quality turkey loads, such as Federal, Winchester, and Remington. Make sure to choose a brand that has a good reputation for producing reliable and effective ammunition.
In summary, when looking for the best turkey loads for 12 gauge, you should consider the shot size, weight, velocity, wad type, and brand of the ammunition. By taking these factors into account, you can choose the right load for your shotgun and increase your chances of a successful turkey hunt.
10 Best Turkey Loads For 12 Gauge
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1. Truglo Tg182x Head Banger Choke Tube, 12 Gauge, Long-Range, Turkey, Black
The Truglo TG182X Head Banger Choke Tube is a must-have for hunters looking to extend their effective range and improve their accuracy when targeting turkeys. This choke tube utilizes multi-phase groove technology, which engages the shot cup and guides the pellets into a tight and consistent pattern, ensuring that every shot counts.
Crafted from durable heat-treated steel, this choke tube is rated for use with HEVISHOT, Winchester, Long Beard XR, Federal Premium 3rd Degree, and other high-performance turkey loads. The Truglo Head Banger choke tubes are CNC– machined for optimum precision, which ensures that each tube is manufactured to the highest quality standards.
The polished end face of the choke tube ensures better seating and sealing, providing maximum power without pressure loss. Choke tubes help control the dispersion of shot inside the shotshell, which is crucial for achieving a tight and consistent pattern.
Truglo Choke Tubes are endorsed by the National Wild Turkey Federation, which is a testament to the quality and effectiveness of these tubes. The company understands that hunters need a tight pattern to bring down that wary old Tom that just walked out, and their line of choke tubes is designed to make sure hunters can do just that.
In summary, the Truglo TG182X Head Banger Choke Tube is a high-quality and reliable option for hunters looking to improve their accuracy and extend their effective range when hunting turkeys. The multi-phase groove technology and precise CNC– machining ensure that each shot counts, while the durable heat-treated steel construction guarantees long-lasting use. With the endorsement of the National Wild Turkey Federation, hunters can trust that they are investing in a product that has been proven to deliver results.
2. 12ga Benelli Crio Plus Turkey Choke Tube By Carlson's | 0.650" Diameter | Extended | Usa-Made
Carlson's Choke Tubes have over 30 years of experience in patterning and testing data, making them stand out among other companies in the market. Their proprietary software has analyzed thousands of load and choke combinations to bring hunters the most accurate choke tubes for their hunting needs.
The Extended Turkey Choke Tube for Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge is made of high-quality stainless steel, specifically manufactured from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel to withstand heavy buffered Turkey Shotshells. These choke tubes produce extra tight patterns with copper-plated and buffered lead turkey shotshells, ensuring high performance in the field.
Measuring at 0.650 diameter and constricted at Turkey, the Carlson's Choke Tubes Extended Turkey for Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge is designed to provide the best possible performance for hunters.
Additionally, Carlson's Choke Tubes backs all of their products with a lifetime warranty, ensuring that hunters can focus on busting clays and filling bag limits without worrying about the performance of their choke tubes.
Overall, the Carlson's Choke Tubes Extended Turkey for Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge is a high-quality, high-performance choke tube that is made in the USA and designed to withstand heavy use. Hunters can trust the expertise and experience of Carlson's Choke Tubes to deliver the best possible aim choke tubes for their hunting needs.
3. 12 Gauge Stevens 555 Turkey Choke Tube By Carlson's, 0.665 Diameter, Stainless Steel, Extended, Usa-Made
Carlson's Choke Tubes is a company that has over 30 years of experience in patterning and testing data. They have analyzed thousands of load and choke combos with their proprietary software to bring you the best and most accurate choke tubes for your hunting needs. Their latest product is the Extended Turkey for Stevens 555, which is made of high-quality stainless steel.
This choke tube is manufactured from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel to withstand heavy buffered Turkey Shotshells. These choke tubes produce extra tight patterns with copper plated and buffered lead turkey shotshells. The Carlson's Choke Tubes Extended Turkey for Stevens 555 12 Gauge constricted at Turkey and measured at 0.665 diameter, providing high performance in the field.
One of the standout features of Carlson's Choke Tubes is their lifetime warranty. They stand behind all of their choke tubes, so you can focus on busting clays and filling bag limits without worrying about the quality of your equipment.
All of Carlson's Choke Tubes are made in the USA, ensuring high-quality manufacturing and supporting American jobs. The company prides itself on creating choke tubes that are reliable, durable, and effective in the field.
In summary, the Carlson's Choke Tubes Extended Turkey for Stevens 555 is a high-quality product that provides exceptional performance in the field. With 30 years of experience in patterning and testing data, Carlson's Choke Tubes is a leading manufacturer of choke tubes that are reliable, durable, and effective. Their lifetime warranty and commitment to American manufacturing make them a trusted brand for hunters and shooting enthusiasts everywhere.
4. Carlson's Extended Turkey Choke Tube For Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge, Stainless Steel, 0.680 Diameter, Made In Usa.
Carlson's Choke Tubes is a company that has been in the business of producing high-quality choke tubes for over 30 years. They have analyzed thousands of load and choke combos with their proprietary software to bring you the best and most accurate choke tubes for your hunting needs. Their Extended Turkey Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus shotguns is a testament to their commitment to quality and performance.
The Carlson's Choke Tubes Extended Turkey Choke Tube is made of high-quality stainless steel that is heat-treated to withstand heavy-buffered turkey shotshells. The choke tube produces extra tight patterns with copper-plated and buffered lead turkey shotshells, ensuring that you get the most out of each shot. The tube is constricted at Turkey and measured at 0.68 diameter, making it an ideal choice for turkey hunting.
One of the standout features of Carlson's Choke Tubes is their lifetime warranty. They back all of their choke tubes with a lifetime warranty, so you can focus on busting clays and filling bag limits without worrying about the quality of your equipment. This shows their dedication to producing high-quality products that are built to last.
All of Carlson's Choke Tubes are made in the United States, which is another testament to their commitment to quality. By manufacturing their products in the US, they ensure that they are able to closely monitor the production process and maintain the highest level of quality control.
In conclusion, the Carlson's Choke Tubes Extended Turkey Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus shotguns is a high-quality, high-performance product that is built to last. With its lifetime warranty and made in the USA guarantee, you can be sure that you are getting a product that is not only effective but also reliable. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this choke tube is an excellent choice for your hunting needs.
5. 12ga Carlson's Bone Collector Turkey Choke Tube, Beretta Benelli Mobil, 0.657", Stainless Steel, Made In Usa.
Carlson's Choke Tubes is a well-known company in the hunting industry, providing reliable and high-quality choke tubes for over 30 years. With their proprietary software, they have analyzed thousands of load and choke combos to bring the best and most accurate aim choke tubes for the hunting needs of their customers.
Their Bone Collector Turkey for Beretta Benelli Mobil is a high-quality choke tube made of stainless steel. It is precision-machined from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel and has a non-reflective matte black finish. This choke tube is designed to deliver high performance and accuracy when hunting for turkeys.
The Carlson's Choke Tubes Bone Collector Turkey for Beretta Benelli Mobil is constricted at Turkey and measured at 0.657 diameter. This means that it is optimized for turkey hunting, making it an ideal choice for hunters who are looking for a reliable and accurate choke tube.
One of the best things about Carlson's Choke Tubes is that they back all of their products with a lifetime warranty. This means that customers can focus on busting clays and filling bag limits without worrying about the quality and durability of their choke tubes.
All Carlson's Choke Tubes are made in the USA with high-quality materials and precision manufacturing processes. This ensures that their customers receive only the best products that are designed to last for many hunting seasons to come.
In conclusion, Carlson's Choke Tubes Bone Collector Turkey for Beretta Benelli Mobil is a high-performance and reliable choke tube that is perfect for turkey hunting. With their decades of experience and commitment to quality, Carlson's Choke Tubes is a trusted name in the hunting industry, delivering only the best products to their customers.
6. Mojo Outdoors Fatal Shot Custom Turkey 12 Gauge Choke Tube, Hunting Accessories, Beretta Optima Hp
The MOJO Outdoors Fatal Shot Custom Turkey 12 Gauge Choke Tube is a top-of-the-line hunting accessory that delivers exceptional performance and accuracy. This choke tube is truly custom-made, yet available at off-the-shelf pricing, making it a convenient and cost-effective choice for hunters of all levels.
One of the key advantages of the MOJO Outdoors Fatal Shot Custom Turkey 12 Gauge Choke Tube is its ability to deliver denser, more uniform patterns and a consistent point of impact. This means that hunters can achieve quicker, cleaner, and more effective kills, saving time and ammunition in the process.
Another major benefit of this custom choke tube is that it eliminates the need for multiple chokes. Each choke is capable of shooting lead shot, steel shot, heavier than lead shot, and buck shot, making it a versatile and practical choice for hunters who want to simplify their gear and streamline their hunting experience.
The MOJO Outdoors Fatal Shot Custom Turkey 12 Gauge Choke Tube is proudly made in the USA from the finest 17-4ph stainless steel, ensuring superior durability and performance. Additionally, this choke tube comes with a lifetime guarantee, giving hunters peace of mind knowing that they have a reliable and high-quality product that will last for years to come.
This custom choke tube has been rigorously tested and proven to be a superior choice in the lab, on the computer, in the field, and on shooting ranges. It's not just a theory – it's a proven advantage that can give hunters a competitive edge and help them achieve their hunting goals with greater efficiency and success.
Overall, the MOJO Outdoors Fatal Shot Custom Turkey 12 Gauge Choke Tube is a must-have accessory for any serious turkey hunter. Its exceptional performance, versatility, and durability make it a wise investment for hunters who want to get the most out of their gear and achieve the best possible results in the field.
7. 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Turkey Choke Tube By Carlson's – 0.665 Diameter, Stainless Steel, Ported, Made In Usa.
Carlson's Choke Tubes is a company with over 30 years of experience in the field of choke tubes. They specialize in providing high-quality, accurate choke tubes for hunters and shooters. The company has analyzed thousands of load and choke combinations with their proprietary software to bring their customers the best possible products.
Their 12 Gauge for Browning Invector Plus is a top-of-the-line choke tube designed specifically for turkey hunting. With a diameter of 0.665 inches, this stainless steel, ported turkey choke tube is made in the USA and offers the best possible accuracy and aim for hunters.
The company's 30 years of testing and patterning data ensures that this choke tube is the best choice for hunters who want to achieve the most accurate and consistent shots. Carlson's Choke Tubes has a reputation for being the most reliable and accurate manufacturer of choke tubes on the market.
The choke tube is made from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring that it is durable and long-lasting. The ported design of the tube helps reduce recoil, making it easier for hunters to take accurate shots without being thrown off balance by recoil. The choke tube is specifically designed for use with Browning Invector Plus shotguns, making it the perfect choice for hunters who use this particular brand.
The company's commitment to quality and accuracy is evident in every product they produce. Carlson's Choke Tubes has a team of experts who are dedicated to testing and analyzing their products to ensure that they provide the best possible results for hunters and shooters.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a choke tube that offers the best possible accuracy and aim for turkey hunting, look no further than Carlson's Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Browning Invector Plus. With its 30 years of experience and testing data, this choke tube is the best choice for hunters who want to achieve the most accurate and consistent shots.
8. Carlson's 12 Gauge Beretta Optima Hp Long Beard Turkey Choke Tube, 0.66 Diameter, Stainless Steel, Made In Usa.
Carlson's Choke Tubes is a company that has been in the business of providing high-quality choke tubes for over 30 years. The company has a wealth of experience in patterning and testing data, and has analyzed thousands of load and choke combos with its proprietary software to bring hunters the best and most accurate choke tubes for their hunting needs.
One of the company's most popular products is the Long Beard Turkey choke tube for the Beretta Optima HP 12 gauge shotgun. This choke tube is made of high-quality stainless steel and is designed to serve up 10% greater penetration over standard lead shot at distances of more than 50 yards. It also provides terminal on-target performance and allows nearly perfectly round shot to be thrown from the barrel for extremely tight, long-range patterns.
The Long Beard Turkey choke tube is constricted at Turkey and measured at 0.66 diameter, making it a high-performance option for turkey hunting. The choke tube is designed to provide hunters with the best possible shot placement and accuracy, allowing them to take down their prey with ease.
Carlson's Choke Tubes backs all of its products with a lifetime warranty, so hunters can focus on busting clays and filling bag limits without worrying about the quality of their equipment. The company is committed to providing its customers with the highest-quality choke tubes, and all of its products are made in the USA.
In summary, the Carlson's Choke Tubes Long Beard Turkey choke tube for the Beretta Optima HP 12 gauge shotgun is a high-quality, high-performance option for turkey hunting. With over 30 years of experience in patterning and testing data, Carlson's Choke Tubes is a trusted brand that provides hunters with the best possible equipment for their needs.
9. Carlson's Long Beard Turkey Choke Tube For Browning Invector Ds 12 Gauge 70180
The Carlson's Long Beard Turkey Choke Tube for Browning Invector DS 12 Gauge 70180 is a highly specialized piece of fishing equipment designed for turkey hunting enthusiasts. This choke tube is made in the United States and is designed to improve the accuracy and range of your shotgun when hunting turkey.
The Carlson's Long Beard Turkey Choke Tube is specifically designed for use with Browning Invector DS 12 gauge shotguns. This choke tube is made from high-quality materials that are built to last and offers a durable and reliable option for hunters looking to improve their accuracy and range. The choke tube comes in a compact package that measures 3.7 L X 8.5 W X 19.3 H (Cm) and weighs only 0.105 kgs.
The Carlson's Long Beard Turkey Choke Tube is engineered to provide hunters with improved accuracy and range when hunting turkey. This choke tube is designed to provide a tight, consistent pattern, which is critical when targeting the small head and neck of a turkey. The choke tube is also designed to reduce the amount of shot deformation, which helps to maintain a tight pattern and deliver clean kills.
The Carlson's Long Beard Turkey Choke Tube is manufactured using advanced technology that ensures the highest level of precision and consistency. This choke tube is made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of turkey hunting. The choke tube is also easy to install and can be quickly and easily swapped out, allowing hunters to adapt their shotguns to changing conditions in the field.
In conclusion, the Carlson's Long Beard Turkey Choke Tube for Browning Invector DS 12 Gauge 70180 is a high-quality piece of fishing equipment that is specifically designed for turkey hunting. This choke tube is made from high-quality materials and is engineered to provide hunters with improved accuracy and range when targeting turkey. The choke tube is easy to install and is a reliable and durable option for hunters looking to improve their shotguns' performance.
10. 12 Gauge Remington Turkey Choke Tube By Carlson's, 0.660 Diameter, Stainless Steel, Extended And Made In Usa.
Carlson's Choke Tubes offers a high-quality choke tube for Remington 12 Gauge shotguns, designed specifically for turkey hunting. With over 30 years of experience in patterning and testing data, Carlson's Choke Tubes brings you the most accurate choke tubes for your hunting needs.
Made of high-quality stainless steel, the Extended Turkey choke tube is manufactured from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel, which can withstand heavy buffered Turkey Shotshells. These choke tubes produce extra tight patterns with copper plated and buffered lead turkey shotshells. The Extended Turkey choke tube is constricted at Turkey and measured at 0.66 diameter, providing high performance and accuracy when hunting turkey.
As a testament to their quality, Carlson's Choke Tubes offers a lifetime warranty on all of their choke tubes. This means that you can focus on busting clays and filling bag limits without worrying about the quality of your choke tube.
All Carlson's Choke Tubes are proudly made in the USA, ensuring that you are getting a high-quality product that is made with care and attention to detail. Every choke tube is rigorously tested to ensure that it meets Carlson's high standards for quality and performance.
Whether you are a seasoned turkey hunter or just starting out, Carlson's Choke Tubes has the perfect choke tube for your Remington 12 Gauge shotgun. With their extensive experience in patterning and testing data, high-quality manufacturing process, and lifetime warranty, Carlson's Choke Tubes is the top choice for hunters who demand the best.
Best Turkey Loads For 12 Gauge FAQs
Are there any specific features to look for when choosing turkey loads for a 12 gauge shotgun?
When choosing turkey loads for a 12 gauge shotgun, there are a few specific features to consider. Firstly, the size of the shot should be appropriate for turkey hunting, typically #4, #5, or #6. The weight of the shot should also be considered, with heavier loads providing greater knockdown power at longer distances. The velocity of the load should be high, around 1200-1300 fps, to ensure sufficient energy transfer upon impact. Some turkey loads also feature specialized wad designs or shot cup systems to improve accuracy and consistency. It is also important to consider the choke of the shotgun, as different loads may perform differently with different chokes. Ultimately, the best turkey load for a 12 gauge shotgun will depend on the specific gun and individual preferences, but considering these features can help narrow down the options.
How does the weight of the shot affect the performance of turkey loads in a 12 gauge shotgun?
The weight of the shot can significantly impact the performance of turkey loads in a 12 gauge shotgun. Heavier shot loads tend to have greater knockdown power, which can be important when hunting larger and tougher game like turkeys. They also typically have a longer effective range, allowing for more accurate and lethal shots at greater distances. However, heavier shot loads also generate more recoil, which can affect accuracy and make the gun more difficult to control. Additionally, they may not pattern as well as lighter shot loads, leading to less consistent and effective shots. Ultimately, the ideal weight of the shot will depend on a variety of factors, including the shooter's preferences, the specific hunting conditions, and the characteristics of the shotgun being used. Experimentation with different loads and weights can help determine the best option for a given situation.
What are the best turkey loads for a 12 gauge shotgun?
The best turkey loads for a 12 gauge shotgun are ones that provide tight patterns and sufficient energy to take down a turkey effectively. Some popular options include Federal Premium Heavyweight TSS, Winchester Long Beard XR, and Remington Nitro Turkey. These loads typically feature a combination of high-density shot, tight chokes, and specialized wads to deliver superior performance.
Federal Premium Heavyweight TSS is particularly notable for its use of tungsten super shot, which provides a higher density than traditional lead or steel shot. This results in more pellets per ounce, tighter patterns, and deeper penetration. Winchester Long Beard XR uses a similar approach with its Shot-Lok technology, which keeps the shot together longer for even better patterns.
Ultimately, the best turkey load for a 12 gauge shotgun will depend on factors such as personal preference, the shotgun's specific characteristics, and the hunting situation. It's important to test different loads and chokes to find the best combination for your needs.
What brands of turkey loads are the most effective for a 12 gauge shotgun?
There are several brands of turkey loads that are effective for a 12 gauge shotgun. Some of the most popular brands include Federal Premium, Winchester Long Beard XR, Remington Premier, and Hevi-Shot. Each of these loads has its unique characteristics that make them effective for turkey hunting. Federal Premium's Heavyweight TSS is known for its high-density shot and long-range performance. Winchester Long Beard XR features ShotLok technology for tighter patterns and increased lethality. Remington Premier has a copper-plated shot for consistent patterns and deep penetration. Hevi-Shot is known for its high-density tungsten-iron shot, which delivers hard-hitting power and long-range performance. Ultimately, the best turkey load for a 12 gauge shotgun will depend on the shooter's individual preferences and the specific hunting conditions they will be facing.
What shot size is best for turkey hunting with a 12 gauge shotgun?
The best shot size for turkey hunting with a 12 gauge shotgun is typically between #4 and #6. These shot sizes provide enough penetration and energy to take down a turkey while also allowing for a sufficient number of pellets in the shot pattern to increase the chances of hitting the target.
Shot size #4 is ideal for longer shots or when hunting larger turkeys, as it provides more energy and penetration. Shot size #6 is better for closer ranges, as it offers a higher pellet count and a denser pattern for increased accuracy.
Ultimately, the choice of shot size will depend on personal preference, the specific hunting situation, and the type of ammunition being used. It is important to choose a shot size that will effectively take down the turkey while also avoiding unnecessary harm to the animal.