Can you use a 12-gauge shotgun for turkey hunting?
Best Shotgun Gauge for Turkey Hunting The main thing to consider when choosing a shotgun for turkey hunting is confidence. You want to go with a shotgun you’re comfortable shooting with the right choke and load. A 12-gauge may shoot further than a 20-gauge, but the 20-gauge has less recoil.
Can you use a regular shotgun for turkey hunting?
For a dedicated turkey gun, 22- or 24-inch barrels are common. If you’re looking at an all-purpose gun, a 26-inch barrel provides a happy medium that performs well in the spring turkey woods or during fall waterfowl and upland seasons. If you’re looking at an all-purpose gun, fit is an important consideration.

What shotgun is best for hunting turkey?
8 of the Best Turkey Hunting Shotguns on the Market Right Now
- Remington 870 Express. Cabela’s.
- Mossberg 500. Cabela’s.
- Winchester SX4 Semi-Automatic. Cabela’s.
- Stoeger M3500. Cabela’s.
- Benelli Performance Shop M2 Turkey Edition. Cabela’s.
- Savage 212/220 Turkey Bolt-Action. Cabela’s.
- Savage 301 Single Shot. Cabela’s.
- Franchi Affinity.
How far can a shotgun shoot a turkey?
Most turkey camps I’ve visited around the country… One kill shot should be all it takes when spring turkey hunting. Most turkey camps I’ve visited around the country inevitably involve a supper table debate about the best shotgun range for dropping a spring gobbler. My generic answer: 20-35 yards.

Is a 12-gauge or 20-gauge better for turkey hunting?
Plenty of Power. As mentioned above, there was a time when 40 yards was considered the far side of a turkey hunter’s effective range with a 12-gauge. However, with the introduction of TSS loads, 40 yards and beyond, is easily accomplished with the 20-gauge shotgun.
Can I hunt turkey with a 20 gauge shotgun?
Where do you aim a shotgun in turkey?
When hunting wild turkeys with a shotgun, greater success is achieved when hunters shoot at the head and neck area of the bird. The most effective firearm shot for a turkey is to the head and neck. The preferred shot angle for bowhunters is broadside, aiming for the heart or lungs.
How far can you shoot a turkey with a 12-gauge shotgun?
Compared to what is available today, the ammunition they used had some considerable limitations. With lighter, underpowered loads of soft lead pellets shot out of a 12-gauge shotgun with a full choke, 30 yards was the maximum range for a lethal shot on a turkey.