Understanding the Role of Shotgun Chokes
What is a Choke?
The crisp morning air bites at your exposed skin as you set up, the pre-dawn silence broken only by the soft rustling of leaves. Your heart pounds a rhythm against your ribs, a counterpoint to the gobble echoing through the woods. You’ve spent weeks scouting, preparing, and now, with your trusty Mossberg 20 gauge shotgun in hand, you’re ready to face the challenge: bringing home a magnificent gobbler. But success hinges on more than just skill and patience; it hinges on having the right equipment, starting with the perfect Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke.
Turkey hunting demands precision. A shotgun, while effective, is only as good as its ability to deliver a tight, consistent pattern at the distances you’ll be shooting. This is where the Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke comes in. It’s not just a accessory; it’s the key to transforming your 20 gauge from a general-purpose firearm into a turkey-slaying machine. This guide will dive deep into the world of Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Chokes, offering insights to help you make informed decisions and ultimately, fill your tag.
Why a Turkey Choke is Different
Before delving into the specifics of Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Chokes, let’s clarify what a choke is and why it’s so essential. Essentially, a choke is a constriction at the muzzle of your shotgun barrel. This narrowing serves a critical purpose: to control the spread of the shot pellets after they leave the barrel. By manipulating the shot pattern, a choke dramatically affects the effective range and the density of hits on your target.
Think of it like a nozzle on a garden hose. A standard barrel without a choke would be like the open hose, with a wide, scattered spray. A choke, like a nozzle, concentrates the water (or in this case, the shot) into a tighter stream, allowing it to travel further and with more force.
Different chokes offer varying levels of constriction. The tighter the constriction, the more concentrated the pattern. Common choke constrictions include cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, full, and extra-full. Each of these has its own ideal applications based on the distance and type of shooting you are doing.
Choosing the Right Choke for Turkey Hunting
While all chokes control shot patterns, a turkey choke is specifically engineered for the unique demands of turkey hunting. These chokes are typically designed with a very tight constriction, often extra-full or even tighter. The goal is to deliver a dense, consistent pattern at longer ranges, maximizing the chances of a clean, ethical kill.
Unlike chokes designed for skeet shooting or other close-range activities, a turkey choke aims for maximum pattern density at ranges that can extend beyond forty yards. This requires careful engineering to handle the pressures, the shot column, and the various types of ammunition typically used in turkey hunting.
Furthermore, many turkey chokes feature design elements like ported or fluted barrels to reduce recoil and improve follow-up shots, a feature which benefits you as a turkey hunter. The construction materials are also often more robust, designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use and the pressures generated by powerful turkey loads.
Why the Mossberg 20 Gauge is a Great Choice
Advantages of the 20 Gauge
The Mossberg 20 gauge has gained significant traction amongst turkey hunters, and with good reason. While the 12 gauge is the traditional favorite, the 20 gauge offers several advantages, especially when paired with the right Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke.
One of the biggest benefits is reduced recoil. The 20 gauge kicks less than a 12 gauge, making it more comfortable to shoot. This translates to less flinching, improved accuracy, and the ability to take follow-up shots more quickly and accurately. For many hunters, particularly those of smaller stature, the reduced recoil makes the 20 gauge a much more enjoyable experience.
Another advantage is the lighter weight. A 20 gauge shotgun is typically lighter and more maneuverable than its 12 gauge counterpart. This is a huge plus when you are covering ground during your scouting phase, or trekking through thick brush in pursuit of a gobbler.
Effectiveness of the 20 Gauge
Finally, the 20 gauge is simply a very effective hunting tool. Modern 20 gauge ammunition, especially when used in conjunction with a good Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke, can deliver devastating results at ranges that were once exclusive to the 12 gauge. As ammunition technology continues to evolve, the 20 gauge will continue to be a more and more potent turkey hunting platform.
Excellent Mossberg 20 Gauge Shotgun Models
The Mossberg 500 Series
Several Mossberg shotgun models have proven to be excellent platforms for turkey hunting, and they often come prepared for the use of a Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke. Here’s a look at some of the popular ones:
The Mossberg 500 series is a staple in the shotgun world. Reliable, affordable, and widely available, the 500 offers a versatile platform that is easy to customize. Many 500 models, especially those geared towards turkey hunting, come with a threaded barrel ready to accept a variety of chokes, and also often feature a camo finish for effective concealment. This makes a Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke an easy add-on for a deadly setup.
The Mossberg 535
The Mossberg 535, a slightly heavier-duty version of the 500, is also a great choice. Known for its ruggedness and reliability, the 535 is built to withstand the punishment of hard use in the turkey woods. It also accepts a variety of chokes, allowing you to tailor your pattern to your specific needs.
Additional Features
Many of these models, along with others in the Mossberg lineup, also feature drilled and tapped receivers for easy mounting of optics, a huge advantage when targeting a gobbler at longer ranges. The ability to mount a red dot or a scope can dramatically improve your accuracy and extend your effective range, making your Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke all the more effective.
Understanding the Fit and Feel of your Mossberg
Ergonomics and Handling
The ergonomics and handling of your shotgun are also crucial for success. A well-fitting shotgun feels comfortable in your hands and allows for quick, instinctive aiming. Before you ever head into the turkey woods, it is important to test out how your Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke feels in your shotgun.
When considering a Mossberg for turkey hunting, pay attention to the length of pull (the distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock). Make sure it’s a comfortable fit for your body type. Consider the grip style and overall weight of the firearm, because you will be carrying this shotgun, often for extended periods.
Practice Makes Perfect
Most importantly, practice mounting and swinging the shotgun, because you need to be able to bring it up quickly and smoothly. Take note of how easy it is to work the action and get the barrel on your target. A good fit improves your chances of a successful hunt, and by extension, makes your Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke more effective.
Identifying the Top Choke Options for your 20 Gauge Mossberg
Top Choke Brands
With a solid shotgun in hand, you’ll next want to explore some of the best Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke options available. The market is filled with choices, each promising superior performance, so it’s essential to research your options carefully. Here’s a look at some of the leading brands and their models:
Several companies have built excellent reputations for their turkey chokes. Carlson’s Choke Tubes, Trulock Chokes, and Briley Manufacturing are all highly regarded by turkey hunters. Patternmaster and Indian Creek Design also have strong followings.
Key Factors for Evaluation
When evaluating a Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke, consider several key factors. First, is the choke constructed from high-quality materials, such as hardened steel or stainless steel, which is more durable and resistant to wear and tear? Second, does the choke deliver a dense, consistent pattern at the distances you intend to shoot? Third, is it easy to install, remove, and clean?
Beyond these factors, consider the reputation and warranty provided by the manufacturer. Many of these companies have a track record of producing reliable, high-performing chokes and stand behind their products.
The Process of Patterning: Essential for Success
The Importance of Patterning
Choosing a Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke is only the first step. The next, and perhaps most important, step is to pattern your shotgun. Patterning is the process of shooting at a target from a set distance to see how your shotgun and choke combination perform. It is the only way to determine the effective range of your setup.
Patterning is a critical step, because it will reveal the characteristics of your choke and ammo combination. It’s also a great way to build confidence in your equipment and to refine your shooting technique.
Steps for Patterning
To pattern your shotgun, you’ll need a safe range, a large target (ideally, a turkey target or a piece of paper at least 30” square), and the ammunition you intend to use in the field. Choose a safe location with a proper backstop. Measure the distance to your target accurately (most turkey hunters will start at 25, 30, 35 and 40 yards). Shoot a group of shots (usually three to five) from a steady rest.
Analyzing Your Shotgun’s Pattern
Interpreting the Pattern
After you’ve fired a series of shots, it’s time to analyze the pattern. The key things to look for are pattern density and consistency. Your objective is a pattern with a high number of pellet strikes within the vital area of the turkey (the head and neck) at the range you expect to be shooting.
Count the number of pellet strikes inside a 10-inch circle. This will give you a general idea of pattern density. The more hits, the better. Also, note if the pattern is well-distributed, or if there are large gaps or voids. A consistent pattern is essential for reliable performance.
Determining Effective Range
Effective range is determined by the pattern density. The goal is to achieve enough pellet strikes on target at the distance you are shooting. If the pattern becomes too sparse, the odds of a clean kill decrease significantly, so you will then need to make adjustments.
Proven Strategies for Turkey Hunting
Shot Placement
Besides having the proper Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke, a good shotgun, and knowing how to pattern, you need to master a few essential turkey hunting techniques. First, accurate shot placement is key. Aim for the head and neck. This area holds the brain and the spine, ensuring a quick, humane kill.
Range Estimation
Next, understand how to estimate range accurately. This skill is absolutely critical. Turkey hunting is often about inches. If you misjudge the distance, you risk missing your target or delivering a wounding shot. Practice with a rangefinder to learn how to estimate distances quickly and confidently.
Ammunition Considerations
Consider your ammunition options. Different shot sizes and types of pellets (lead, tungsten, or other alloys) will affect your pattern and effective range. It is always a good idea to test different loads in your setup to see which ones perform best with your Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke.
Hunting Safety
Finally, remember safety at all times. Be aware of your surroundings, identify your target positively, and always handle your firearm responsibly. Always use the appropriate chokes and loads for the hunting scenario.
Proper Maintenance and Care
Cleaning and Lubrication
Your Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke, like any other piece of equipment, requires proper maintenance and care to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Keep your shotgun clean and properly lubricated. Pay attention to the choke itself.
Regularly clean your choke to remove powder residue and fouling. Use a quality choke tube cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Check the choke for any damage or wear, such as dents, bulges, or erosion. If you notice any damage, replace the choke immediately.
Extending Choke Life
By taking the time to properly maintain your equipment, you will ensure that your Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke remains reliable for years to come.
Final Thoughts on Achieving Gobbler Glory
Recap of Key Points
Choosing the right Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke is one of the most critical steps in preparing for a successful turkey hunt. By understanding the role of a choke, the advantages of the 20 gauge, and by carefully selecting and patterning your choke, you will be well-prepared to outsmart those wary gobblers.
Final Thoughts
Remember, practice and preparation are key. Spend time shooting your shotgun and fine-tuning your technique. Take advantage of every opportunity to improve your skills.
So, shoulder your Mossberg 20 Ga Turkey Choke equipped shotgun, head into the woods, and embrace the challenge. The reward – a spring gobbler and the satisfaction of a successful hunt – is worth the effort. Get out there, scout hard, call smart, and most importantly, be safe. Happy hunting!
