What Choke for Turkey Hunting? The Definitive Guide
Choosing the right choke for turkey hunting can significantly impact your success. The best choke for turkey hunting is generally a specialized aftermarket choke designed to deliver extremely tight patterns at typical turkey hunting ranges (20-40 yards), but specific recommendations vary depending on your shotgun, ammunition, and hunting style.
The Importance of Choke Selection in Turkey Hunting
Turkey hunting is unlike most other shotgun sports. It’s not about consistently hitting moving targets at varying distances. Instead, it focuses on delivering a dense, devastating pattern to a relatively small target – the turkey’s head and neck – at a known distance. Therefore, the choke, which constricts the shot as it exits the barrel, plays a crucial role in pattern density and consistency. An improperly chosen choke can result in a sparse pattern, leading to missed birds or, worse, wounded animals.
Understanding Choke Constriction and Pattern Density
Choke constriction refers to the amount the choke narrows the bore of your shotgun. The tighter the constriction, the tighter the shot pattern will be at a given distance. Standard choke constrictions, from least to most constriction, include:
- Cylinder: No constriction.
- Improved Cylinder: Very slight constriction.
- Modified: Moderate constriction.
- Improved Modified: More constriction than Modified.
- Full: Significant constriction.
While these standard chokes are useful for various shotgun applications, turkey hunters typically opt for aftermarket chokes designed specifically for turkey loads. These chokes often have tighter constrictions than Full chokes and are engineered to handle the heavier, more specialized ammunition used for turkey hunting.
Choosing the Right Choke for Your Turkey Gun
Selecting the ideal turkey choke involves several considerations:
- Shotgun Make and Model: Not all chokes are compatible with all shotguns. Ensure the choke you choose is designed to fit your specific shotgun’s threading.
- Ammunition Type: Different turkey loads, including lead, tungsten, and mixed loads, will pattern differently with different chokes. It’s crucial to test different combinations of choke and ammunition to find what performs best in your gun.
- Hunting Environment: If you primarily hunt in thick woods where shots are typically closer, a slightly more open choke might be preferable. In open fields, a tighter choke for longer shots might be more appropriate.
The Testing Process: Patterning Your Shotgun
Patterning your shotgun is the most critical step in choosing the right choke. Here’s how:
- Gather Supplies: Obtain a variety of turkey loads you’re considering using, a selection of turkey chokes compatible with your shotgun, paper targets (at least 3’x3′), a stable shooting rest, and a notepad to record your results.
- Set Up the Target: Place the target at a distance of 40 yards, which is a common turkey hunting range.
- Shoot the Target: Aim carefully at the center of the target and fire one shot.
- Analyze the Pattern: Count the number of pellets that hit within a 10-inch circle drawn around the point of aim. Note any significant holes in the pattern.
- Repeat: Repeat steps 3 and 4 with different chokes and ammunition types, recording your results each time.
- Compare Results: Compare the pattern density and consistency for each choke/ammunition combination. Choose the combination that provides the densest, most even pattern.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming All Turkey Chokes Are Created Equal: Not all aftermarket turkey chokes perform the same. Read reviews and consult with experienced turkey hunters before making a purchase.
- Failing to Pattern Your Shotgun: As previously mentioned, this is the most critical step. Do not skip it!
- Using the Wrong Ammunition: Use only ammunition specifically designed for turkey hunting. Avoid using target loads or other types of ammunition that are not optimized for tight patterns.
- Over-Choking: Sometimes, a choke that is too tight can actually decrease pattern density due to shot deformation. Experiment to find the sweet spot.
Choke Constriction Chart
| Choke Type | Constriction (inches) | Pattern Percentage at 40 Yards | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cylinder | 0.000 | 40% | Close range; buckshot |
| Improved Cylinder | 0.005-0.010 | 50% | Upland birds; skeet |
| Modified | 0.015-0.020 | 60% | General purpose; waterfowl |
| Improved Modified | 0.025-0.030 | 65% | Longer range waterfowl |
| Full | 0.035-0.040 | 70% | Turkey; longer range |
| Extra Full (Turkey) | 0.045+ | 75%+ | Dedicated turkey hunting |
Benefits of Using a Specialized Turkey Choke
- Increased Pattern Density: Turkey chokes are designed to deliver significantly tighter patterns than standard chokes, increasing your chances of a clean kill.
- Extended Effective Range: A tighter pattern allows you to ethically take turkeys at slightly longer ranges.
- Improved Confidence: Knowing you have the right choke and ammunition combination can boost your confidence in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “patterning” my shotgun mean, and why is it so important?
Patterning your shotgun involves shooting at a target at a specific distance (usually 40 yards for turkey hunting) and analyzing the distribution of pellets. This process is essential because it allows you to determine which choke and ammunition combination produces the densest and most consistent pattern in your specific shotgun. Without patterning, you’re essentially guessing about your shotgun’s performance.
Can I use a steel shot choke for turkey hunting?
While some steel shot chokes may be suitable for turkey hunting, it’s crucial to check the choke manufacturer’s recommendations. Many older shotguns and some chokes are not designed to handle steel shot, which can damage the barrel. Tungsten-based turkey loads are often a better choice for tighter patterns and longer ranges.
What is the ideal pellet count within a 10-inch circle at 40 yards?
There’s no magic number, but generally, you should aim for at least 10-15 pellets within a 10-inch circle at 40 yards. More pellets are generally better, but consistency is also crucial. Look for a pattern with minimal gaps or “holes.”
How often should I clean my turkey choke?
Clean your turkey choke after each use to prevent buildup of residue and maintain optimal performance. Use a bore cleaner and a choke tube wrench to remove and clean the choke thoroughly.
Are there any specific brands of turkey chokes that are consistently highly rated?
Several brands consistently receive positive reviews, including Carlson’s Choke Tubes, Hevi-Shot Chokes, and Trulock Chokes. However, the best choke for you will depend on your specific shotgun and ammunition combination.
Can I use a full choke for turkey hunting?
While a full choke is a starting point, dedicated aftermarket turkey chokes typically offer even tighter constrictions and are designed specifically for turkey loads. Pattern your shotgun with both a full choke and a turkey choke to compare the results.
What’s the difference between a ported and non-ported turkey choke?
Ported chokes have small holes or vents near the end of the choke tube. These ports are designed to reduce recoil and muzzle jump, which can help you stay on target for a quick follow-up shot.
Does the gauge of my shotgun affect choke selection?
Yes, the gauge of your shotgun absolutely affects choke selection. Chokes are specific to each gauge and are not interchangeable between different gauges.
What is back-boring, and does it affect choke performance?
Back-boring refers to enlarging the bore diameter of the shotgun barrel. This can sometimes improve pattern consistency and reduce recoil. Some turkey chokes are specifically designed for back-bored barrels.
Can I use a rifled choke for turkey hunting?
Rifled chokes are typically used for shooting sabot slugs and are not recommended for turkey hunting with shot. Using shot through a rifled choke will result in a significantly degraded pattern.
What if I’m primarily hunting at distances less than 30 yards?
If you’re consistently hunting at shorter ranges, you might consider a slightly more open choke such as an Improved Modified or even a modified turkey choke. Again, patterning is essential.
Is there a “do it all” choke for turkey hunting and other shotgun sports?
Unfortunately, there is no single choke that excels at everything. Turkey chokes are designed for tight patterns at specific ranges and are not ideal for sports like skeet or trap. It’s best to have a dedicated choke for each activity.