Is a full choke good for turkey hunting?

Is a Full Choke Good for Turkey Hunting?

When it comes to turkey hunting, choosing the right choke for your shotgun is crucial for a successful and enjoyable hunt. One common question among turkey hunters is whether a full choke is good for turkey hunting. In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of using a full choke for turkey hunting and help you make an informed decision.

What is a Full Choke?

A full choke is a type of shotgun choke that constricts the barrel to a maximum degree, resulting in a very tight pattern. Full chokes are typically used for close-range, high-velocity shooting, such as in skeet shooting or trap shooting. They are designed to produce a very tight pattern, which is ideal for shooting small targets at close range.

Is a Full Choke Good for Turkey Hunting?

The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. A full choke can be effective for turkey hunting, but it’s not always the best choice. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

• Tighter pattern: A full choke can produce a very tight pattern, which can be beneficial for turkey hunting, especially at close range.
• Increased accuracy: The tight pattern and high velocity of a full choke can result in increased accuracy and a higher hit ratio.
• Reduced pellet spread: The constricted barrel of a full choke can reduce the spread of pellets, making it easier to hit your target.

Cons:

• Limited range: Full chokes are designed for close-range shooting and can become less effective at longer ranges. Turkey hunting often requires shooting at longer ranges, making a full choke less suitable.
• Reduced pellet density: The tight pattern of a full choke can result in reduced pellet density at longer ranges, making it more difficult to hit your target.
• Difficulty in patterning: Full chokes can be difficult to pattern, especially at longer ranges, which can make it challenging to accurately determine the effective range of your shotgun.

Alternatives to Full Chokes

If a full choke is not the best choice for turkey hunting, what alternatives are available? Here are a few options to consider:

• Improved cylinder: An improved cylinder choke is a good all-around choice for turkey hunting. It provides a balanced pattern and is effective at both close and longer ranges.
• Modified choke: A modified choke is a good choice for turkey hunting at longer ranges. It provides a slightly tighter pattern than an improved cylinder and is effective at ranges of 20-40 yards.
• Extra full choke: An extra full choke is similar to a full choke but is designed for slightly longer ranges. It provides a tighter pattern than an improved cylinder and is effective at ranges of 30-50 yards.

When to Use a Full Choke

While a full choke may not be the best choice for turkey hunting in general, there are certain situations where it can be effective:

• Close-range shooting: A full choke can be effective for close-range shooting, such as when hunting turkeys in dense cover or when using a shotgun with a shorter barrel.
• High-velocity loads: A full choke can be effective with high-velocity loads, which are designed for close-range shooting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a full choke can be effective for turkey hunting, but it’s not always the best choice. It’s essential to consider the range, shot size, and load you’re using when choosing a choke. A full choke may be suitable for close-range shooting with high-velocity loads, but it may not be the best choice for longer-range shooting or for hunting in open areas.

Comparison of Chokes for Turkey Hunting

Here is a comparison of different chokes for turkey hunting:

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right choke for turkey hunting is crucial for a successful and enjoyable hunt. While a full choke can be effective in certain situations, it’s not always the best choice. Consider the range, shot size, and load you’re using when choosing a choke, and experiment with different chokes to find what works best for you.