what is the best turkey load for a 20 gauge

Turkey hunting has become one of the most popular hunting activities in recent years, with more and more hunters using 20-gauge shotguns to hunt turkeys. However, choosing the right turkey load for a 20-gauge shotgun can be a challenging task, as there are numerous options available on the market. In this article, we will take a closer look at what the best turkey load for a 20 gauge is.

What is a turkey load?

A turkey load is a cartridge that is specifically designed for turkey hunting. Turkey loads generally consist of larger and heavier pellets compared to standard loads. This is because the larger pellets are more effective at taking down a turkey at a greater distance. There are two types of turkey loads available on the market: lead and non-toxic. The lead load is the traditional choice but has been banished in the USA due to environmental concerns. Hence, non-toxic options, like tungsten and bismuth, are popular among hunters.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Turkey Load

When selecting the best turkey load for a 20 gauge, several factors must be considered. Here are some of the key factors that you should keep in mind:

Size of the shot

The size of the shot is one of the most crucial factors to consider when choosing the best turkey load. Smaller pellets, such as #9 and #10, are less effective as they don't have enough kinetic energy or penetration to kill a turkey. On the other hand, larger pellets, like #4 and #5, are a better choice. These pellets have enough energy to penetrate the feathers, muscles, and bones of a turkey, making them an effective choice for a 20-gauge shotgun.

Length of the shotshell

The length of the shotshell is another essential factor to consider. A 20-gauge shotgun uses a shorter shotshell length compared to a 12-gauge shotgun. As such, it is important to select a shotshell that is optimized for a 20 gauge. This ensures that the shotshell will pack enough pellets and have the right amount of powder to create the desired velocity and penetration needed for turkey hunting.

Type of the load

Choosing the right type of load is equally important. Lead shot is the traditional option. However, non-toxic loads like tungsten and bismuth have become popular due to their high density and better penetration. Tungsten loads bear a density similar to that of lead, which makes them a great replacement option. Bismuth is a less denser metal, but has slower velocities that mimic lead. Additionally, as they are eco-friendly, using them helps reduce environmental damage.

Best Turkey Load for a 20 Gauge

Considering the factors mentioned earlier, the Federal Premium Heavyweight TSS 20-gauge shotgun loads are the best turkey loads for a 20 gauge. This shotshell has a high density of tungsten and allows for the use of smaller shot sizes, creating more pellets per shotshell. Federal Premium Heavyweight TSS turkey shells are available in 3\" and 3.5\" magnums, making them an ideal choice for larger turkeys that require greater penetration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best turkey load for a 20 gauge shotgun can be daunting, but it's crucial to take into account several key factors to make an informed choice. The size of the shot, length of the shotshell, and type of load are all key elements to consider when selecting a turkey load. Federal Premium Heavyweight TSS shots are a great option for a 20-gauge shotgun, with its tungsten-filled dual shot buffer and the capacity to combine both #7 and #9-size pellets for maximum shell thickness. Ultimately, it all comes down to the type of shooter, firearm, and environment they're using the shotgun load.