Quick Answer
For spring turkey hunting, use a 1 1/8 oz to 1 1/4 oz load of 5 or 6 shot at 1200-1300 fps. In fall, a 1 1/8 oz to 1 1/4 oz load of 5 shot at 1200-1300 fps is sufficient. These loads provide a good balance between range and penetration.
Spring Turkey Loads
When hunting spring turkeys, you want a load that can reach out to 40 yards and beyond with good penetration. A 1 1/8 oz to 1 1/4 oz load of #5 or #6 shot at 1200-1300 fps is ideal. This load will allow you to reach the birds quickly and effectively, especially when using a shotgun with a longer barrel. For example, a 12 gauge shotgun with a 26-inch barrel can reach a velocity of 1255 fps with a 1 1/4 oz load of #5 shot.
Fall Turkey Loads
In the fall, turkeys are often closer and more active, allowing for shorter shots. A 1 1/8 oz to 1 1/4 oz load of #5 shot at 1200-1300 fps is still a good choice, but you can also consider a slightly lighter load, such as 1 oz, if you’re confident in your shooting ability. Additionally, some turkey hunters prefer a slightly tighter choke, such as a Modified or Improved Cylinder, to help control the spread of the shot at closer ranges.
Choosing the Right Load
When selecting a turkey load, consider the terrain you’ll be hunting in, the time of year, and your personal shooting style. If you’ll be hunting in dense woods or heavy cover, a slightly heavier load may be beneficial to ensure effective penetration. However, if you’ll be hunting in open fields or at closer ranges, a lighter load may be sufficient. Ultimately, the key is to find a load that balances range and penetration with your specific hunting needs.
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