Choosing the right shotgun for turkey hunting can significantly impact your success. While 12 gauge shotguns are popular, the 20 gauge is gaining traction as a viable and often preferred alternative. This comprehensive guide explores the advantages, disadvantages, and considerations involved in selecting a 20 gauge turkey gun.
Why Choose a 20 Gauge for Turkey Hunting?
The 20 gauge offers several compelling advantages over its 12 gauge counterpart, making it an excellent choice for many hunters:
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Reduced Recoil: This is arguably the most significant benefit. The lighter recoil of a 20 gauge makes it easier to shoulder and shoot accurately, particularly for younger or smaller-statured hunters. This translates to faster follow-up shots, crucial in fast-paced turkey hunting scenarios.
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Lighter Weight: A 20 gauge shotgun is generally lighter than a 12 gauge, reducing fatigue during long hunts. This is especially beneficial when navigating challenging terrain.
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Improved Handling: The lighter weight and reduced recoil contribute to improved handling and maneuverability in tight quarters or dense cover.
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Less Felt Recoil Means Better Shot Placement: Because you’re less likely to flinch, you’ll have better shot placement.
Considerations When Choosing a 20 Gauge Turkey Gun:
While the 20 gauge presents numerous advantages, it's crucial to consider these factors:
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Ammunition Availability and Cost: While readily available, the selection of 20 gauge turkey ammunition might be slightly less extensive than that of 12 gauge. Prices can also vary.
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Effective Range: While modern 20 gauge turkey loads deliver impressive stopping power, they may have a slightly shorter effective range compared to high-powered 12 gauge loads. This difference is often negligible at typical turkey hunting distances.
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Pattern Density: It is essential to pattern your specific 20 gauge shotgun and ammunition combination to ensure adequate pattern density at your hunting distances. This will guarantee effective shot placement.
Features to Look for in a 20 Gauge Turkey Gun:
When selecting your 20 gauge turkey gun, prioritize these features:
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Choke Tube System: A versatile choke tube system allows you to adjust the shot pattern to match various hunting conditions and distances. Consider extra-full or full chokes for turkey hunting.
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Stock and Forend: Choose a stock and forend that fit you comfortably. Proper fit is vital for accurate shooting and reduced fatigue. Adjustable stocks can be particularly beneficial.
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Sight System: Many turkey hunters prefer a bead sight or a simple rifle-style sight for accurate target acquisition.
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Overall Build Quality: Invest in a shotgun from a reputable manufacturer, built with high-quality materials for reliability and longevity.
Conclusion:
The 20 gauge offers a compelling combination of power, reduced recoil, and manageable weight, making it a highly effective choice for turkey hunting. By carefully considering your individual needs and preferences, and paying close attention to ammunition selection and patterning, you can confidently choose a 20 gauge shotgun that delivers exceptional performance in the field. Remember, responsible hunting practices and ethical considerations are paramount.
