There’s a weird thing about turkey hunting that most people don’t realize, but everyone knows.
I know, sounds weird. Hear me out.
We have so much gear for hunting turkeys. We have our comfortable boots, our camo attire, our turkey call, our trusted shotgun, and all the practice and research we can cram into our minds.
But out of everything we own, only the ammo actually touches the turkey. Only our load, in the end, makes or breaks the deal.
You can find a ton of resources online about what outfits are best for turkey hunting, where to go to find your next Tom Turkey, and so on.
But there’s not a lot out there about the one thing that actually can deliver your turkey to you.
Ammo.
Recently, payloads have been used in a tighter choke that leads to a considerably dense shot column. At close range, you’re basically firing a slug.
This is one of the most frustrating things hunters experience. The closer you are, the harder it is to hit. This has been a growing trend, and there will be more aggravated hunters in the future.
Sadly, you can’t just go for a looser spread at close range because that type of payload is absolutely useless for any shot pass 40 yards, which is what you’re most likely going to be taking.
We need to find a balance.
Most loads you find are going to have a blended shot, which gives you a better chance close up without sacrificing too much for the far shots.
Federal’s 3rd Degree
This load takes the blended shot concept and takes it a step further. With 3 different shot sizes of different weights and coatings, you have a shot that is lethal up close and up to 50 yards out. The middle sized shot even has a small ring around it that makes it spread faster for those up close shots, which is pretty clever.
Winchester Xtended Range – Bismuth
What makes the Winchester Xtended Range shot impressive is the bismuth shot. This inclusion gives a greater range and better stopping power. If you think you’ll need some more reach and have to put down your tom immediately, this is a great option.
Remington Premier High Velocity Magnum Turkey Loads
This is the load for you if you just want a load to work again and again. Sometimes you’ll want a load that can do something a little special. This might cost you on those ‘standard’ shots. When you’re just starting off. Each shot will feel the same and it will let you get used to the whole experience.
This is also a great choice if you’re ever in a slump. When you’re going through those times that nothing seems to work, go with a load like this. It’ll let you hit the shots you’re supposed to make and put the ball back in your court.
Federal Premium Mag-Shok Lead Turkey Load
This load is another great choice for people just starting off or if someone that isn’t use to shooting guns. This load is pretty light compared to some of the other loads so you have much less recoil as the other loads on this list. Plus, they’re easier to carry around so you won’t get tired as fast.
This list is nowhere near inclusive. The reason for that is that there are new technologies being invented all the time. Hunters are more and more aware of what they want and the companies that create ammo respond to that demand.
You can find loads of varying weights, varying materials, and even some made to be better for the environment. In time, you’ll have even more innovative products available.
If you want to stay ahead of other hunters, give yourself the best chance for success, and see what these technologies can do, you have to be willing to try new things. Who knows where ammo might be in ten years from now? You deserve to stay on top of it each season.
