Quick Answer
Use tungsten for turkey over lead when hunting in areas with high water tables, or where water is a concern, as tungsten is non-toxic and won't leach into the environment like lead can. Additionally, tungsten is a better choice for turkey hunting in areas with high humidity or wet conditions. This is especially true when using TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) or other tungsten-based loads.
When to Choose Tungsten Loads
When hunting turkey in areas with high water tables, or where water is a concern, it’s essential to choose tungsten loads over traditional lead loads. Tungsten is non-toxic and won’t leach into the environment like lead can, making it a more environmentally friendly option. This is crucial in sensitive ecosystems where water sources are present, such as marshes, wetlands, or areas with high water table levels.
Tungsten Load Performance
TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) loads have been shown to perform exceptionally well in turkey hunting, offering improved penetration and expansion compared to traditional lead loads. These loads typically consist of a tungsten core surrounded by a copper or nickel jacket, providing a dense, yet aerodynamic shot pattern. When used in a 3-inch or 3.5-inch 12-gauge shotgun, TSS loads can be effective at ranges of up to 40 yards, making them an excellent choice for hunting in dense cover or thick woods.
Practical Application
When hunting turkey with tungsten loads, it’s essential to consider the specific conditions and use the right chokes and shotguns to maximize performance. For example, when using a 3-inch 12-gauge shotgun with a TSS load, a full choke can be used to maximize range and penetration. In contrast, a mid- to long-range choke may be more suitable for 3.5-inch shotguns with TSS loads. By understanding the characteristics of tungsten loads and matching them to the right equipment, hunters can effectively take down turkey in a variety of environments.
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