Is TSS Worth The Price For Serious Turkey Hunters?

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TSS Advantages for Turkey Hunting Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) is a type of high-density shotshell ammunition that has gained popularity among serious turkey hunters in recent years. Its unique characteristics make it an ideal choice for hunting at extended ranges and in dense cover, where traditional lead or copper-plated pellets often struggle to perform. With a pellet size of .35 or .40, TSS loads can deliver devastating hits on turkeys at distances of 40 yards or more, and their small pellet size helps to reduce pellet weight, increasing their range and penetration.
Choosing the Right TSS Load When selecting a TSS load for turkey hunting, serious hunters need to consider several factors, including pellet size, shot weight, and choke tube. For hunting at close to medium ranges (20-40 yards), a 10-12 pellet load of .35 or .40 TSS with 1 3/8 or 1 1/2 oz shot weight is often recommended. However, for longer shots (40-60 yards), a 20-24 pellet load of .35 or .40 TSS with 1 1/2 or 1 3/4 oz shot weight may be more effective. It’s essential to pair the right TSS load with the correct choke tube to optimize performance and ensure a clean kill. For example, a 12-gauge shotgun with a Long or Extra Long choke tube can be used with a 10-12 pellet load of .35 TSS, while a 1 1/2 or 1 3/4 oz load may require a tighter choke tube, such as a Modified or Improved Modified.
Comparing TSS to Traditional Loads In comparison to traditional lead or copper-plated pellets, TSS loads offer several advantages, including increased downrange lethality and a tighter shot pattern. On average, TSS loads can expand to a larger diameter than traditional pellets, resulting in more consistent kills and less risk of pass-throughs. Additionally, TSS loads tend to hold their pattern longer, allowing hunters to take shots at slightly longer ranges. However, TSS loads are generally more expensive than traditional loads, and their higher cost may be a significant factor for serious turkey hunters on a budget.