Turkey hunting with TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) requires precision and the right equipment to maximize your chances of a successful harvest. Choosing the correct choke tube is critical for achieving the dense patterns needed to cleanly take down a turkey at longer ranges. While there's no single "best" choke, as performance can vary depending on your specific shotgun, TSS load, and shooting style, we can explore the factors influencing choke selection and highlight some top contenders.
Understanding the Importance of Choke Tubes
A choke tube restricts the diameter of the barrel at the muzzle, controlling the shot pattern. With TSS, its higher density means it retains energy and velocity over longer distances compared to traditional lead shot. This necessitates a choke that offers a tight pattern while mitigating the risk of over-choking, which can lead to inconsistent patterns and reduced downrange effectiveness.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Choke:
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Shot Size: The size of your TSS shot will impact the ideal choke constriction. Smaller TSS sizes (e.g., #7, #8) generally benefit from slightly tighter chokes compared to larger sizes (e.g., #6, #5).
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Shotgun Model: Each shotgun model has its own unique barrel characteristics, affecting how it performs with different choke tubes. Some shotguns might pattern better with a certain brand or type of choke even with the same constriction.
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TSS Load: The density and weight of your specific TSS load will interact differently with various chokes. Consult your ammunition manufacturer's recommendations for optimal choke choices with their products.
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Shooting Distance: Your anticipated shooting range will heavily influence the necessary choke constriction. Closer ranges might tolerate a slightly more open choke, while longer ranges require tighter patterns.
Top Contenders for 20 Gauge TSS Chokes:
While personal testing is always recommended to determine what works best with your specific setup, several brands consistently receive high praise from turkey hunters using TSS:
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Carlson's Chokes: Carlson's offers a wide range of chokes for various gauges and shot types, including options specifically designed for TSS. Their reputation for quality and performance makes them a popular choice. Look at their offerings that specify compatibility with Tungsten shot.
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Comp-N-Choke: Similar to Carlson's, Comp-N-Choke provides a variety of chokes known for their consistent patterns. Again, check their specifications to ensure TSS compatibility.
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Sumtoy Chokes: Sumtoy is another reputable brand offering chokes optimized for specific shot types and distances. Research their range for 20 gauge options suitable for TSS.
The Process of Finding Your Best Choke:
The best way to find your optimal choke is through pattern testing. This involves shooting your shotgun at various distances with different chokes and your preferred TSS load, documenting the results using a pattern board. This allows you to objectively compare performance and identify the choke producing the tightest, most consistent patterns for your needs.
Remember to prioritize safety when pattern testing. Always follow proper firearm safety procedures and use a safe backdrop.
Conclusion:
Selecting the best 20 gauge turkey choke for TSS is not about choosing a single "best" option but about finding the choke that delivers optimal patterns for your specific shotgun, ammunition, and shooting style. Thorough research, careful consideration of the factors discussed above, and ultimately, pattern testing, are essential to maximizing your success in the field. Happy hunting!
