The thrill of turkey hunting is undeniable, and choosing the right firearm significantly impacts your success. The 20 gauge turkey gun has emerged as a popular choice, offering a compelling blend of power, manageable recoil, and versatility. This in-depth guide will explore everything you need to know about 20 gauge turkey guns, helping you make an informed decision for your next hunting season.
Understanding the 20 Gauge Advantage
The 20 gauge has long been a favorite among upland bird hunters, but its reputation in turkey hunting is rapidly growing. Here's why:
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Reduced Recoil: Compared to heavier 12 gauges, the 20 gauge produces significantly less recoil. This is a major benefit for new hunters or those with sensitivity to recoil. Less recoil means faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy, particularly crucial in fast-paced turkey hunting situations.
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Lighter Weight: 20 gauge shotguns are generally lighter than their 12 gauge counterparts. This is advantageous for long hunts where carrying your firearm for extended periods is necessary. Less fatigue means more focus on the hunt.
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Improved Handling: The lighter weight and smaller size of the 20 gauge contribute to improved handling and maneuverability. This is especially important in dense woods or tight shooting situations.
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Suitable for Youth Hunters: The reduced recoil makes 20 gauge shotguns ideal for introducing younger hunters to the sport of turkey hunting. It allows them to develop proper shooting techniques without the overwhelming power of a 12 gauge.
Choosing the Right 20 Gauge Turkey Gun: Key Considerations
Selecting the optimal 20 gauge turkey gun requires careful consideration of several factors:
Barrel Length and Choke
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Barrel Length: Barrel length influences the shotgun's weight, balance, and swing characteristics. Shorter barrels are generally easier to handle in tight cover, while longer barrels can offer slightly improved accuracy and velocity. Common barrel lengths range from 21 to 26 inches.
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Choke: The choke determines the shot pattern. For turkey hunting, extra-full or full chokes are commonly used to deliver a tight, dense pattern at longer ranges. Consider a choke tube system for versatility, allowing you to switch between different chokes depending on the hunting situation.
Stock and Forend
The stock and forend significantly impact the gun's fit and handling. A properly fitted stock ensures comfortable shouldering and consistent cheek weld, critical for accuracy. Consider the length of pull, drop at comb, and cast to find a gun that fits your body type. Different stock designs (e.g., Monte Carlo stock) can also affect shooting posture.
Action Type
20 gauge turkey guns are available in various action types:
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Pump-action: Reliable and affordable, pump-action shotguns are known for their simplicity and ease of maintenance.
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Semi-automatic: Semi-autos offer faster follow-up shots, a significant advantage in scenarios where multiple shots may be needed. However, they are generally more expensive and require more maintenance.
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Over/Under: Often favored for their elegance and balance, over/under shotguns offer a classic feel and typically have excellent ergonomics.
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Bolt-action: While less common in turkey hunting, bolt-action shotguns offer exceptional accuracy and are suitable for longer-range shots.
Ammunition Considerations
Selecting appropriate ammunition is just as important as choosing the right gun. 20 gauge turkey loads are readily available, ranging in shot size and payload. For turkey hunting, you typically want a higher-velocity load with a heavier shot size (#4, #5, or #6 are common choices) for increased stopping power.
Table 1: Popular 20 Gauge Turkey Loads
| Shot Size | Payload (pellets) | Velocity (fps) | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| #4 | 1 3/8 oz | 1300 | Good all-around choice |
| #5 | 1 1/8 oz | 1350 | Excellent pattern density |
| #6 | 1 1/4 oz | 1250 | Better penetration at longer ranges |
Note: These are just examples, and actual velocities and payloads can vary by manufacturer.
Case Study: Comparing Two Popular 20 Gauge Turkey Guns
Let's compare two popular models to illustrate the considerations discussed above:
Gun A: A budget-friendly pump-action shotgun with a 24-inch barrel and a simple design. It is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a good choice for beginners.
Gun B: A more expensive semi-automatic shotgun with a 26-inch barrel and advanced features like an adjustable stock and recoil pad. It offers superior comfort and faster follow-up shots.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
The 20 gauge turkey gun offers a powerful and manageable option for both experienced and novice hunters. By carefully considering factors like barrel length, choke, action type, and ammunition, you can choose a firearm that perfectly fits your hunting style and preferences. Remember to prioritize proper firearm safety and responsible hunting practices. Happy hunting!