Chokes

Long-range birds don’t stand a chance when you’ve locked in your pattern with the right load and shotgun choke for turkey hunting. Turkey chokes affect the spread of your shot so choosing the correct one can make it easier to shoot moving targets, like a strutting gobbler in the woods. Typically a tighter choke is ideal for turkey hunting but if it constricts the shot too much, you aren’t likely to make a clean kill. Take several chokes and ammo to the shooting range to test how different combinations perform to determine which are the best chokes for turkey hunting with your ammo at measured distances. Because a successful strike requires you to hit within the bird’s kill zone, taking the time to dial in the right chokes and loads can make a big difference. Some of the best turkey chokes are specifically designed to provide precise shell patterns at even longer distances than typical tubes. Hunters looking for a turkey choke for a 10-, 12-, 16-, or 20-gauge shotgun can find a variety of tube options for nearly any shell. Though 12- and 20-gauge shotguns are more traditional for turkey hunting, the right choke can transform nearly any gauge shotgun into a solid setup for targeting gobblers.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What chokes are best for turkey hunting?

A full choke or an extra-full turkey choke are two of the best choices for hunting toms because these provide the constriction needed to make an impact at 40-plus yards, which is typical for turkey hunting.

Who makes the tightest turkey choke?

Some of the tightest turkey chokes will throw a full wad 60 to 70 yards, including the Anaconda and Code Black turkey tubes by Patternmaster.

Is a full or modified choke better for turkey hunting?

A full choke is better for turkey hunting because modified tubes are only effective on birds that are less than 30 yards away, while full, extra-full, and dedicated turkey chokes provide more effective patterns at 60-plus yards away.