What size choke for turkey hunting?

What Size Choke for Turkey Hunting?

When it comes to turkey hunting, choosing the right choke can make all the difference between a successful hunt and a disappointing one. A choke is a crucial component of your shotgun, as it affects the pattern and spread of your shotshell. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which size choke to use for turkey hunting. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of turkey hunting chokes, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

What Size Choke for Turkey Hunting?

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand that the ideal choke size for turkey hunting depends on several factors, including:

• Shot size and type: Different shot sizes and types require different chokes to achieve optimal patterns.
• Shotshell length: Longer shotshells require tighter chokes to maintain pattern density.
• Turkey distance and size: The distance and size of the turkey being hunted also play a significant role in determining the optimal choke size.

Based on these factors, here are some general guidelines for choosing the right choke size for turkey hunting:

Modified Choke: A Good All-Rounder

The Modified choke is a popular choice for turkey hunting, as it provides a good balance between pattern density and spread. It’s suitable for BB and T shot sizes and works well for turkeys within 20-30 yards. The Modified choke has a .045" constriction, which is relatively tight, resulting in a dense pattern.

Improved Modified Choke: For Longer Ranges

The Improved Modified choke is similar to the Modified choke but has a slightly tighter constriction (.040"). This choke is ideal for BB and T shot sizes and is suitable for turkeys at longer ranges (30-40 yards). The Improved Modified choke provides a more concentrated pattern, making it an excellent choice for hunting larger turkeys.

Full Choke: For Close Ranges

The Full choke is the tightest of the three and has a constriction of .035". It’s best suited for FF shot sizes and is ideal for hunting turkeys at close ranges (10-20 yards). The Full choke produces a very dense pattern, making it perfect for small, close-range shots.

Extra Full Choke: For Maximum Density

The Extra Full choke is the tightest of all, with a constriction of .030". It’s best suited for FF shot sizes and is ideal for hunting large, close-range turkeys. The Extra Full choke produces an extremely dense pattern, making it perfect for extremely close shots.

Choosing the Right Choke for Your Shotgun

When choosing a choke for your shotgun, consider the following:

• Barrel length: Longer barrels require tighter chokes to maintain pattern density.
• Gauge: Smaller gauges (e.g., 20-gauge) require tighter chokes than larger gauges (e.g., 12-gauge).
• Shell velocity: Faster shells require tighter chokes to maintain pattern density.

Conclusion

Choosing the right choke size for turkey hunting can be a daunting task, but by considering the factors mentioned above and following the guidelines provided, you’ll be well on your way to making an informed decision. Remember to choose a choke that suits your shot size, shotshell length, and turkey distance, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different chokes to find what works best for you.

Tips and Tricks

• Use the right shotshell: Choose shotshells specifically designed for turkey hunting, as they have a more consistent pattern and are designed to penetrate deeper.
• Practice, practice, practice: Before heading out on a hunt, practice your shooting and patterning to ensure you’re getting the most out of your shotgun and choke.
• Consider a turkey-specific choke: Some choke manufacturers offer turkey-specific chokes that are designed to improve pattern density and accuracy.

By following these guidelines and tips, you’ll be well-equipped to take down those elusive turkeys and have a successful hunting season. Happy hunting!