Turkey hunting presents unique challenges, demanding precision and power to bring down these formidable birds. Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), with its significantly higher density than lead, offers a distinct advantage. But choosing the right shot size is crucial for ethical and successful hunting. This guide will delve into the optimal TSS shot size for turkey hunting, considering various factors to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding TSS and its Advantages
Before diving into shot size selection, let's quickly recap why TSS is preferred by many turkey hunters:
- Higher Density: TSS is substantially denser than lead, resulting in increased penetration and energy transfer at longer ranges. This translates to a cleaner kill, even at distances where lead might underperform.
- Reduced Recoil: Despite its superior performance, TSS often exhibits less recoil than lead shot of equivalent size, leading to improved accuracy and shooter comfort.
- Improved Patterns: Many hunters report tighter, more consistent patterns with TSS, increasing the likelihood of hitting vital areas on the turkey.
Factors Affecting TSS Shot Size Selection
Choosing the ideal TSS shot size depends on several factors:
1. Hunting Distance:
- Close-Range (0-30 yards): Larger TSS sizes like #6 or #7 provide devastating power at close range, ensuring a quick and clean kill. However, excessive penetration can be a concern at very close distances.
- Medium Range (30-40 yards): #7 and #8 TSS are excellent choices for this range. They offer a good balance of penetration and pattern density.
- Long Range (40+ yards): Smaller TSS sizes like #9 or even #10 might be necessary to maintain sufficient pattern density at extended distances. However, it's crucial to be aware of the limitations and ethical considerations at these distances.
2. Choke Tube:
The choke tube significantly influences shot pattern. A tighter choke will produce a denser pattern at longer ranges but might require smaller shot sizes to prevent over-penetration. A more open choke will provide a wider pattern, potentially allowing for the use of larger shot sizes at closer ranges.
3. Turkey Size and Age:
While TSS generally performs well on both mature gobblers and hens, consider slightly larger shot sizes for larger, older birds to ensure a quick, clean kill.
4. Gun and Barrel Characteristics:
Your firearm's capabilities directly impact shot performance. Consult your gun's manual and manufacturer recommendations regarding TSS compatibility and shot size suitability.
Recommended TSS Shot Sizes for Turkey Hunting:
Based on the factors mentioned above, here are some general recommendations:
- #6 TSS: Best suited for close-range shots (under 30 yards) where maximum stopping power is needed.
- #7 TSS: An excellent all-around choice, effective for medium-range shots (30-40 yards).
- #8 TSS: A versatile option for both medium and longer ranges, offering a good compromise between pattern density and penetration.
- #9 TSS: A suitable option for longer ranges (40+ yards), requiring a tighter choke and precise shot placement. This size should only be used by experienced shooters.
Conclusion:
Selecting the best TSS shot size for turkey hunting is a nuanced process, requiring consideration of several factors. Start by assessing your typical hunting distances, the choke tube you're using, and your firearm's capabilities. Through careful consideration and practice, you can determine the optimal shot size that maximizes your chances of a successful and ethical hunt. Remember always to prioritize ethical hunting practices and responsible gun handling.
