Tip Tuesday: Choosing the Right Turkey Ammo for a Successful Hunt

Turkey season is right around the corner, and if you want to make the most of your time in the field, selecting the right ammo is just as important as choosing the right shotgun. Today, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about turkey loads to ensure a clean, ethical harvest.

Gauge Matters

Most turkey hunters rely on 12-gauge or 20-gauge shotguns, but with the rise of tungsten loads, .410 bore has also gained popularity. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• 12-gauge – The most common choice, offering a wider range of load options and maximum knockdown power.

• 20-gauge – A lighter, more manageable option that still delivers deadly results with the right ammo.

• .410 bore – Thanks to Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), the .410 is now a viable choice for seasoned hunters looking for a lightweight, lower-recoil option.

Shot Size: What’s Best for Turkeys?

Turkeys have small vital zones, so pellet size and density matter. Here are the top choices:

• #4 Shot – Large pellets with solid energy, great for long-range shots.

• #5 Shot – A balance between pellet count and knockdown power, making it a versatile option.

• #6 Shot – More pellets for better pattern density, ideal for close to mid-range hunting.

• TSS (#7-#9 Shot) – Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) has changed the game. It’s denser than lead, allowing for smaller pellets that still deliver devastating energy at long distances.

Lead vs. Tungsten vs. Steel

• Lead – Traditional and effective, but heavier loads are needed for reliable results.

• Steel – Less common for turkey hunting due to lower density and energy retention.

• Tungsten (TSS) – The top-tier option, offering high-density, deeper penetration, and the ability to use smaller shot sizes with great effectiveness.

Best Turkey Loads Available at Fort Thompson

Looking for the right ammo? Here are some top choices we carry to help you drop that gobbler this season:

• Winchester Long Beard TSS .410 3" 13/16OZ #9 – A great choice for .410 hunters, delivering tight patterns and hard-hitting performance with tungsten shot.

• Apex Ammunition 20GA 3" 1 5/8OZ #9 – A premium 20-gauge TSS load that provides dense, long-range patterns with maximum penetration.

• Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS 12 GA 3" 1 5/8OZ #9 – A solid 12-gauge option offering tungsten’s superior density and energy for cleaner, ethical kills.

• Migra TSS 12GA 3" 2OZ #7/9 – A unique blend of #7 and #9 TSS shot, providing excellent pellet count and deep penetration at extended ranges.

Final Tip: Pattern Your Shotgun!

No matter what ammo you choose, always pattern your shotgun before heading to the field. Different loads perform differently in various choke setups, so test a few options at the range to find the best match for your gun.