what is turkey load

Turkey hunting is a popular sport that requires specific equipment for success. One of the most important items is the turkey load. This article aims to explain what a turkey load is and its importance in turkey hunting.

What is a Turkey Load?

A turkey load is a type of shotgun shell specifically designed for turkey hunting. These loads are made with larger pellets or shot sizes, which are capable of carrying more energy and penetrating the turkey’s feathers and skin. Turkey loads have a shorter range but provide more knockdown power at close distances.

Why is a Turkey Load Important?

Choosing the right shotgun shell is critical to ensure success in turkey hunting. Using the wrong load can result in missed shots, injured turkeys, or even lost game. Turkey loads are designed to deliver a dense pattern of shot that can take down a turkey effectively without destroying the meat.

Types of Turkey Loads

There are two main types of turkey loads: lead and non-toxic. Lead turkey loads have been the traditional choice for many hunters, but due to potential environmental hazards, non-toxic alternatives have gained popularity in recent years. Non-toxic turkey loads are typically made of tungsten, steel, or bismuth and have similar or superior performance to lead loads.

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Turkey Load

When selecting a turkey load, hunters should consider the following factors: shotgun and choke type, shot size, and velocity. It is essential to use the right load combination that pairs well with your shotgun and choke type for optimal performance. Shot size should be large enough for sufficient knockdown power, but not too large that it ruins the meat. Velocity should also be taken into account, as it affects the spread and penetration of the shot.

Conclusion

In summary, a turkey load is a specialized shotgun shell designed for turkey hunting with larger pellets or shot sizes for more knockdown power at close distances. It is crucial to choose the right load type and combination for optimal performance. Turkey loads are available in both lead and non-toxic options, and hunters should consider their shotgun type, choke, shot size, and velocity when selecting the appropriate load for their needs.