Turkey shot vs birdshot. Sep 27, 2019 · This week I'd like to discuss .

Turkey shot vs birdshot. However, if you're seriously concerned about over-penetration and want to use this, I'm not saying it's the worst idea. They feature larger shot sizes, higher velocities, and tighter patterns compared to birdshot, making them far more effective at longer ranges and in penetrating turkey feathers and bone. Jan 8, 2021 · Bird hunting covers various species such as doves, quail, turkey, ducks, and geese. 7K subscribers Subscribed Number four shot is good for turkey and other sturdy birds though water fowl often call for even larger shot sizes for reasons I won’t get into and better answered by guys who actually go hunting for water fowl. Jan 18, 2025 · Understanding Turkey Loads Turkey loads are specifically designed for hunting wild turkeys. No one eber noticed recoil when shooting at a gobbler. A variety of 12-gauge ammo shot patterns allow hunters to target game from small to medium sizes. Second, responsible turkey shots involve shooting at the head/neck only at distances less than 35 yards. Loaded with dense tungsten shot — 60% denser than lead — it delivers energy and killing results long-range. Discover their traits, viable use cases, ballistics, and more. Its density of 18. Jul 25, 2014 · Is a Turkey choke only good for turkey loads? or can I also shoot target birdshot loads and buck shot through it? Oct 13, 2013 · We went turkey hunting for the first time this spring, and we bought what were sold as "turkey loads" at Gander Mountain - Federal copper-plated 6 shot 3" 2oz magnum for the 12 gauge, and Winchester Double X 5 shot 3" 1-1/4 oz magnum for the 20 gauge. Buy your #6 lead shot ammunition in bulk here at Ammo. You can't shoot with a bad backstop regardless of the load you're using. 3K May 15, 2014 · Have him practice with 2 3/4 in target loads (so called "birdshot") then slip in a turkey load when you go hunting. Oct 22, 2024 · There was a time when all my turkey, small game, waterfowl and upland shot shells were 2 ¾-inch, #6 lead, 12-gauge field loads. 5, #8, or #9, while larger birds like geese and turkeys demand larger shot sizes like #2, #4, or Steel, Bismuth, Tungsten and TSS… these are the major players for shot in the non-toxic category and they all kill birds with varying degrees of effectiveness and cost. Birdshot is the term for shotgun pellets of the sizes intended for hunting birds, whether in the air (like ducks, pheasants, geese, quail, doves, etc. Jan 25, 2016 · Shotgun Shells Explained - Types Of Ammo (Birdshot, Buckshot, Slugs). Are . From birdshot to buckshot and slugs, learn which load to choose for hunting, clay shooting, or self-defense. Shot is categorized with an inverse naming system, in which smaller-sized shot carries a larger number. See full list on bulkcheapammo. Not all relate to turkey hunting, but some do. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Birdshot Birdshot sizes range Jan 8, 2012 · Buckshot still retains quite a bit of energy at 30-40 yards. Slugs Understanding the difference between birdshot, buckshot, and slugs is the first step in becoming a Jedi Master of choosing the perfect shotshell for your next outing, whether that’s shooting skeet, hunting waterfowl, or dropping a big buck. However, with the increasing popularity and, in some areas, mandatory use of non-toxic shot, #4, #5, or #6 tungsten-based shot or #2, #3, or #4 steel shot are viable alternatives. I see boxes of shot shells labeled #4 buckshot, #4 birdshot, and then some just say #4 without any signifier. Feb 28, 2025 · As a side effect, TSS (tungsten super shot) became widely popular for turkey loads, because it hits harder, and patterns better than any other birdshot in production. Feb 11, 2010 · Both have 1. Cheap Fiocchi 2 3/4" shell with #4 shot, the same as i use for turkey. Here in the East, a number of states are considering requiring non-toxic loads for turkey hunting; at least a half-dozen posted bulletins last year encouraging and strongly recommending hunters give non Mar 5, 2022 · I have enough 20 gauge turkey ammo to last a couple more seasons. Learn about the options with our Non-Toxic Shot Buyer's Guide. ) and pest control. Mar 6, 2009 · What is turkey shot? The Dave McCracken Memorial Shotgun Forum Sep 8, 2025 · When it comes to protecting your home, choosing the right shotgun ammo is critical. When it comes to the size of the pellets, the rule of thumb is this: the larger the shot number, the smaller the shot. The main difference between birdshot and buckshot is their penetrating power. Is Birdshot Wise For Home Defense: Fine shot, delivered from close-range tends to pattern very close together and will leave a wound much like a shotgun slug. For home defense options, what's more effective? Buckshot or birdshot? Roy Huntington, editor of American Handgunner, takes on this question after field test In case you haven’t watched them already, here are three videos that I could find of Paul Harrell discussing the controversial subject of birdshot for home defense… Bird Shot in your Home Defense Shotgun Sep 21, 2024 · Birdshot is best for smaller game and birds, offering a wide spread to catch fast-moving targets. Jun 14, 2012 · Mapp Gas container at 8 yards with a 20 gauge. Many hunters are curious about Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), but they wonder whether it's worth the cost and how it performs. 5 or 3 inch number 4 lead and shoot it out of a full choke. ) or on the ground (like turkey). Birdshot is also used for shooting airborne clay targets (skeet, trap, and sporting clays), and is often used for small game hunting (squirrels, rabbits, hares, etc. Aug 8, 2024 · What Size Shot for Bird Hunting? Your Complete Guide The best shot size for bird hunting depends heavily on the type of bird you’re hunting and the distance you’re shooting. Gone are the days of going to the hardware store and grabbing whatever was on the shelf and going hunting. You get more pellets in a single load. Modern turkey loads, chokes, and shot types have increased effective hunting ranges and lethality on turkeys compared to the old days. 5" #4, this is based off 2. I am using my trusty Remi Mar 7, 2025 · Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) became widely popular for turkey loads, because it hits harder, and patterns better than any other birdshot in production. Apr 13, 2025 · Compare and contrast birdshot with True Shot Academy. Our comprehensive guide will help you select the best ammo for your needs. Select your favorite human/mountain lion/bear-analog target, and shoot it with #4 and 00 Buck. Live inventory + same day shipping! A turkey shot is much smaller than #4 buckshot, however there is absolutely no chance you are going to survive a turkey load to the chest in any significant manner compared to a buckshot. Learn the differences between Buck Shot vs Bird Shot for Self-Defense. Mar 17, 2023 · Discover the different types of shotgun loads and how they impact your shooting performance. But, having a hull full of TSS doesn’t mean a turkey load is going to be great. Are you wanting to cause a massive flesh wound that might get infected, or are you Apr 12, 2017 · What are the benefits of using birdshot vs buckshot for home defense? We tested the two in a head-to-head battle. May 28, 2024 · Discover why turkey loads, despite their heavier shot and higher velocity, are ineffective for home defense compared to buckshot. The design of birdshot is based on the fact that birds have much less dense bone structure and less muscle mass than humans. Which one's best?? Get your own Ballistic Dummy Lab products & use the discount code "1SHOTTV' - With birdshot you get what’s called a “rat-hole effect wound. However, I would like to add the possibility of the "turkey The best 20 gauge ammo for deer hunting, upland game, and self-defense. 1 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cc) allows ammo makers to load more, smaller Dec 17, 2024 · Understanding the Differences: Turkey Loads vs. Though there are smaller shot sizes on the market, #8 is the smallest shot commonly used by hunters. Try it out sometime. Buckshot shells have larger pellets in lower numbers while birdshot shells have smaller pellets in much higher quantities. The turkey load is buffered. 22lr shotshell. We never got an opportunity to take a shot Mar 19, 2024 · Hi All - quick question. The shot size chart below serves as a general guide and starting point for shot selection for hunting various game animals. Check out our tips on choosing the right shells. Slugs, which offer accuracy and power, are the go-to choice when precision and distance are key, especially in big game hunting or tactical situations. 22lr shotshells worth the cost?. #4 bird (turkey) The Dave McCracken Memorial Shotgun Forum The problem with really high-power bird loads (turkey/goose) is that they're still birdshot. Browning TSS Tungsten Turkey Browning’s TSS Tungsten Turkey gives hunters an edge for clean kills of wily turkeys. Nov 20, 2012 · Just showing the difference in recoil between bird shot used for trap and skeet shooting and a turkey load used for turkey hunting. Smashed to half thickness and 4 pellets penetrated. With birdshot you get what’s called a “rat-hole effect wound. From there, the Magnum line spread out to cover 10- and 20-gauge offerings with No. Jul 5, 2024 · Buckshot vs birdshot by Ammo. 75" #6) doesn't even compare. Mar 11, 2010 · Getting shot with birdshot is a bad day for anyone, but it doesn't have the "knock-down" power of buckshot or slugs. Feb 28, 2025 · Select a turkey specific load in #4-6 birdshot. Mar 16, 2020 · Taking the time to pattern your shotgun and turkey load could mean the difference between tagging out or eating tag soup. Worst of both worlds. Apr 23, 2025 · Shotgun Shell Types: Birdshot vs. Therefore, it’s crucial to Nov 29, 2023 · Using birdshot for turkey hunting may result in wounding rather than cleanly killing the bird, leading to increased suffering and a lower chance of a successful harvest. However, choosing the right non-toxic shotshell or load in today’s world can be confusing. Buckshot will penetrate much deeper. Mar 24, 2024 · A generation ago, a turkey gun was simply the best gun you owned, and turkey loads were the same lead shotshells used during pheasant season. For birdshot, the larger the number, the smaller the pellet. Certain shot sizes are traditionally used for hunting different types of game—although, shot selection for hunting is influenced by subjective preference. Since then, shotgun loads for all game species, including wild turkeys, have come a long way. Jan 17, 2017 · It wasn't until 1994 that Federal first plastered the "Turkey" designation in writing on a 10-round package of "Magnum" turkey loads. Hevi-Shot and TSS are also excellent options. 4 shot (202 pellets). ” While there’s shot spread over approximately a 12″ circle, a large portion of the shot concentrates in the middle of the target, creating a hole a couple inches wide — a very significant wound. Buckshot pellets are larger and can penetrate two or three walls, while birdshot pellets are smaller and don’t have much May 6, 2022 · Choosing the right turkey shotgun shells means understanding what materials, densities, shot sizes, and velocities go into each shotshell. Birdshot fires a lot of smaller projectiles in a wide pattern that is ideal for hunting upland game, waterfowl, and for use in sporting clays competitions. While a standard wall (in testing) will stop much of the birdshot, it's still wise to consider the potential for bystander As a side effect, TSS (tungsten super shot) became widely popular for turkey loads, because it hits harder, and patterns better than any other birdshot in production. Mar 12, 2018 · Here is a summary of what you need to know about shotgun shells. Conclusion: Birdshot vs Buckshot Buckshot and birdshot are two different types of shotgun ammo that have drastically different intended uses. Understanding the Core: The Anatomy of a Shotshell Components of a Shotshell Before we dive into the specifics of Turkey Loads vs Birdshot, it’s essential to understand the fundamental components that make up a shotgun shell. Hence the name slug, because it’s just an enormous piece of lead flying downrange. Works for me and it's a lot easier to shoot than 00 out of my 10 gauge. Nov 15, 2012 · The pro-buckshot gentleman argues nothing penetrates like 00 buck, while the birdshot proponent argues birdshot minimizes collateral damage because it won't bust through drywall (though some tests Sep 27, 2019 · This week I'd like to discuss . Birdshot (I have no experience with 3. 5-ounce 2. Find out all that here. Jul 15, 2024 · For most turkey hunting situations, a Turkey Load with #4, #5, or #6 shot is recommended. Buckshot loads have high penetration while birdshot typically has Mar 30, 2025 · Turkey hunting has evolved tremendously over the past few decades. The key is to balance pellet size with pattern density to ensure sufficient energy 3 days ago · Turkey Track Club has achieved over 90% success rate and close to 2,000 Black Hills turkeys recorded in its books. Birdshot regularly doesn’t kill tiny little birds. First, a turkey is a stationary target, making turkey hunting basically an aimed, rifle-like shooting discipline. They are best for shooting small targets because when the gun is shot, the pellets spread out and cover a large area. People saying they're using birdshot so they can shoot with Dec 17, 2024 · Understanding the Differences: Turkey Loads vs. Does it stop the bad guy? No. Sep 15, 2021 · Turkey Hunting is somewhat of a complex sport and requires more than just your standard birdshot to take down large toms. Mar 18, 2025 · Find the Right Shotshells for Turkey Hunting in the Spring Hunting with the right ammo can be the difference between tagging a tom or eating tag soup. Buckshot vs. Nov 7, 2024 · 2 Savage 57607 Renegauge Turkey 12 Gauge 24″ – Best Shotgun for Turkey Hunting Next in my Best Bird Hunting Shotguns review, Wild turkeys are very intelligent and no easy kill. Birdshot, designed for smaller game birds like doves and quail, uses smaller shot sizes (typically #6 to #8) that spread widely at longer ranges. Question: Is it all the same? Is there an actual difference between #4 buck and #4 bird? If there is a difference, what is the difference? Jan 22, 2021 · You’ve probably heard the terms “buckshot,” “birdshot,” and “slug” before when dealing with shotgun ammo. Slugs Understanding the difference between birdshot, buckshot, and slugs is the first step in becoming a Jedi Master of choosing the perfect shotshell for your next outing, whether that's shooting skeet, hunting waterfowl, or dropping a big buck. So to separate the good from the great, associate gear editor Adam Dec 20, 2023 · Explore various types of shotgun shells used for target shooting, hunting & self-defense. Buckshot, with its larger pellets, is more suited for hunting larger game and provides a solid option for home defense. Specialized turkey shotguns, featuring shorter barrels and stocks with Picatinny rails for mounting red dots, didn’t exist at the time. Slugs If you stand in the ammo aisle and check out the shotgun section, you will see a box of shells for just about everything. 2- That said a heavy shot Turkey load is probably slipping into a grey area. Nor did production 4 days ago · Should You Use Birdshot Or Buckshot Shells For Home Defense? Most experts recommend using buckshot or slug rounds for defensive purposes rather than birdshot. Use a heavier load for longer range shots where legal. com Nov 2, 2018 · Birdshot Possibly the most common type of 12-gauge shotgun load, birdshot comes in a variety of sizes. Apr 15, 2025 · We tested the best turkey ammo of 2025 to find reliable shells that will consistently harvest birds no matter the range or your budget. Federal, Remington and Winchester list 1. Jul 14, 2023 · Sadly, because these once sold best to goose hunters, who must now shoot lead-free, the roster of loads with large lead birdshot has shrunk. Generally, smaller birds like doves and quail require smaller shot sizes like #7. com, what’s the difference between buckshot and birdshot in terms of self-defense, small game, and large game hunting? #4 #5 #6 Birdshot & 4 Buck vs Ballistic Gel Test 12 Gauge Buckeye Ballistics 70. What’s the best 20 gauge ammo for home defense, turkey hunting, and sporting clays? Cheap #6 lead shot ammo for sale at wholesale prices. These days, turkey loads come in a vast array of configurations, many of which kill gobblers more effectively and at longer ranges than the ammo that used to be available Mar 11, 2025 · If you’re set on using birdshot, turkey loads (such as Winchester Super X #5 Shot) offer a denser and harder-hitting pattern than typical birdshot, but they still pale in comparison to buckshot or slugs. While birdshot is typically used for hunting birds and smaller animals, it can still hurt or even kill people. TSS is the most effective, but also the most expensive, bird shot ever engineered. First of all, turkey hunting is best when it’s a close-range game. Feb 3, 2024 · Turkey Loads vs Birdshot, Discover the key differences between turkey loads and birdshot. This article provides a complete guide to Jul 29, 2021 · A 12-gauge shotgun loaded with birdshot is a good choice for most home defense situations. Shot size and velocities look good on pheasant ammo. Goose loads are just birdshot with an enormous amount of recoil. com. From what I've read buckshot is preferred due to penetration and size of the pellets where as "bird shot" is adverse because it does not provide enough penetration. 13-inch No. Is it just me or does it seem dumb to buy the turkey load and only get 10 shells vs. Get best ammunition for bird hunting from IFA Tactical. Jul 8, 2019 · Does birdshot provide the stopping power you need without concerns of over penetration? We test to find out. It creates a shallow, but wide wound channel with sure… I’m an avid waterfowl hunter/upland guide and I also reload, if it must be bird shot I would go for something tailored for turkey hunting, 3. Jul 27, 2021 · Shotgun ammunition can be outright confusing—this quick guide to buckshot and birdshot should help you get on the road to understanding. Does it hurt? Yes. 1- There are more than anecdotal evidence of birdshot (by which in this context I mean 7-9 target loads) not being effective against people. You can think of it as your ultimate guide to shotgun ammo. Apr 14, 2021 · Since the ban on lead shot for waterfowl hunting back in 1991, at least 30 states have enacted further restrictions on lead ammo on some level. The advent of 3-inch magnum shells allows today’s hunters to shoot a bigger payload of pellets at faster speeds, even with smaller bore 20-gauge shotguns. But at 40, 50, and 60 yards, there’s a lot more variation in terms of lethality. Copper-coated lead pellets penetrate further into flesh and bone, extending the lethal Buckshot vs birdshot by Ammo. For example, #8 shot is smaller than #4 shot and vice versa. When sighting in a red dot at 7-8 yards with bird shot using the method as described by Shannon in the sticky (moving the red dot to center of bird shot pattern), i have seen a few folks mention that one should sight in the red dot so the pattern is taking out the bottom of the bullseye, and this technique somehow equates to your TSS loads striking the bullseye May 10, 2024 · Birdshot has many uses for hunters, including target practice, actual hunting, and recreational clay shooting. 51M subscribers 9. Both 12 and 20 gauges plus 28 gauges and . 25oz copper plated #6 shot in a 3" shell with the pheasant load having a higher listed velocity. If you're shooting someone in your home, it's because you view them as a threat to your life, and using birdshot, even heavier stuff, isn't the best. Turkey don't know I am not using a 3 1/2" 12 gauge and neither did this tough thick walled MAPP gas bottle. Jan 18, 2007 · I often ponder the idea of using turkey loads for home defense. This wide pattern is great for covering a larger area, but lacks the stopping power needed for a larger, tougher bird like Aug 3, 2023 · A complete breakdown of buckshot vs birdshot, including the many different sizes of each and how to choose the best one for your purpose. Shot refers to the pellets, projectiles, inside a shotgun shell. There are a lot more Oct 28, 2025 · Larger birdshot pellets are accordingly appropriate for tougher upland game like turkey and grouse, and smaller ones are good for daintier birds that wouldn’t leave behind much of a trophy if they were broadsided by enormous shot pellets. Shotgun Shell Types Explained: Instantly Know Which Is Best For You Shotgun Shell Types: Birdshot vs. Oct 1, 2008 · #4 buck vs. Feb 9, 2023 · What are the main differences when comparing steel shot vs bismuth and tungsten? We break it all down for you. But how do you know the best shot size, the best shell size, or even the best gauge for turkey hunting? Here's what I've found to be true and a great place to start! Using birdshot for home defense is one of those ideas that just won't go away. Apr 1, 2021 · Modern Lead Turkey Loads Thanks to innovative propulsion systems such as the Federal FliteControl Flex wad, and pellet-protecting measures, including Winchester’s Shot-Lok, lead-based loads are more effective than ever—especially when coupled with a premium, tuned turkey choke tube from Indian Creek, Jebs, Trulock, Pure Gold, etc. However, I have noticed that no stores around have 20 gauge turkey loads. A #9 shot will hold more pellets. Darryl Bolke talked about this in a recent podcast. Shotgun ammunition described, differences, what and when to use. com, what’s the difference between buckshot and birdshot in terms of self-defense, small game, and large game hunting? May 20, 2020 · A look at birdshot vs buckshot - what are the differences between these shotgun rounds and what makes is better for home defense? Read here to find out. Consider a tight choke like extra full turkey for denser patterns. May 13, 2024 · What Size Shot is Best for Turkey Hunting? The best shot size for turkey hunting is typically #4, #5, or #6 lead or lead-alloy shot. The key difference lies in their ability to deliver the necessary stopping power. Generally, these 'mini-shotshells' contain about 30 or so grains of #12 shot. May 5, 2023 · Tungsten Super Shot was once only popular among handloaders, but more production shotshell makers are engineering TSS. However, with so many turkey hunting ammunition options now available, it can be confusing to choose the right shells and shot sizes for your hunt. But one must fully understand the typical turkey shot in the real world. The main differences Jun 5, 2019 · Lead shot alternatives are necessary for effective conservation. It is a form of shotgun ammunition, with each individual shell carries a number of small pellets dependent on the gun gauge and shell size. Pattern your shotgun on target at the typical ranges you’ll shoot during the hunt. What are the cons of using non turkey specific ammo? Sent from my Dec 17, 2024 · Understanding the Differences: Turkey Loads vs. 410s are sufficient for ethically killing turkeys at 30 yards and in. Buckshot on the left; birdshot on the right. Hunting ammunition manufacturers also began coating lead pellets with copper, which makes them sturdier. Birdshot The primary difference lies in the shot size, shot type, and payload. 3″ or 3. Mar 12, 2020 · Modern turkey hunters have much better options. This wide pattern is great for covering a larger area, but lacks the stopping power needed for a larger, tougher bird like Oct 28, 2025 · What is the best shotgun ammo for home defense? Check out the differences between Buckshot and Birdshot and decide which is best for your home's protection! May 26, 2025 · Shotgun Shells Explained: Birdshot vs. Hunters who experiment with various choke and shotshell Nov 3, 2023 · Birdshot are small pellets made from a variety of materials, including lead, steel, bismuth and more. My question is this; what is a good alternative to turkey specific ammo to hunt with? I saw someone state that pheasant ammo works. Mar 9, 2025 · 12 Gauge vs 20 Gauge Turkey Gun Basics Before we dive into the details, it’s best to establish the basics. getting 25 of the same shells for $5 dollars more and would the buffered shot make a difference worth noting? Dec 11, 2024 · Unlike buck shot and bird shot, which have multiple projectiles inside the shot shell, we just have one giant piece of lead inside this slug shot shell. 5″ shells add velocity. 75-inch magnum loads of . Jan 27, 2023 · This article takes you over the differences between birdshot and buckshot, giving you a better idea of what each round can do. Sep 28, 2025 · The Difference Between Buckshot and Birdshot Explained The difference between birdshot and buckshot is the size of projectiles (shot/pellets) loaded into the shotgun shell and their penetration ability. This wide pattern is great for covering a larger area, but lacks the stopping power needed for a larger, tougher bird like Aug 31, 2017 · Birdshot shells look like other shotgun shells, but inside they have many small pellets generally of lead or steel. If you’re not entirely sure how each one is different or all of the different uses for May 3, 2019 · Birdshot for Home Defense Part II: Turkey Magnums Paul Harrell 1. Colloquially referred to most often as 'snake shot' or 'rat-shot,' the round is geared towards pest control. 4-, 5-, and 6-shot options and various payload weights. Steel really shouldn’t be shot from a full choke unless it’s approved for it, and it lacks the density and knockdown power of lead, but that being said inside 10 yards almost any magnum Apr 11, 2022 · Choosing the best load for turkey hunting can come down to a few things. Occasionally, you may want to consider using larger birdshot. If you want the minimum shot size that is viable for defense, you want #4 buck. Today we test one of the oldest debates, Birdshot vs Buckshot vs Slugs for self defense. 6cg y1 8cn9 ndnv70s 2j1w q3o0 cfapseh yyi1 ckljb 53b