Is a Mossberg 500 good for Turkey?

Yes, the Mossberg 500 is considered a good shotgun for turkey hunting. It is versatile, reliable, and offers various options for chokes, which can help improve shot patterns for turkey hunting. Additionally, the Mossberg 500 is available in models specifically designed for turkey hunting, featuring camouflage finishes and shorter barrels for maneuverability in the field.

Does Mossberg make a 20-gauge turkey gun?

Yes, Mossberg does make 20-gauge turkey guns.

What size 20-gauge shot is best for turkey?

For turkey hunting, the most commonly recommended shot size for a 20-gauge shotgun is #5 or #6. These sizes offer a good balance between pellet count and energy, providing effective performance at typical turkey hunting distances. It’s important to pattern your shotgun with the specific load you plan to use to ensure effective shot distribution and to determine its effective range.

What is the range of the Mossberg 500 20-gauge?

The effective range of a Mossberg 500 20-gauge shotgun typically varies based on the type of ammunition used. With birdshot, the range is generally around 30 to 40 yards. For buckshot, the effective range is usually about 20 to 30 yards. When using slugs, the range can extend to about 70 to 100 yards for accurate targeting.

How far can you shoot turkey with shotgun?

The effective range for shooting a turkey with a shotgun typically varies between 30 to 40 yards. Beyond this range, the shot spread may become too wide to ensure a humane and effective hit. It’s important to consider the gauge of the shotgun, the type of choke used, and the specific ammunition when determining the effective shooting range. Always prioritize safety and ethical hunting practices.

What is the military grade Mossberg 500?

The military-grade version of the Mossberg 500 shotgun is generally referred to as the Mossberg 590. The 590 is designed to meet military specifications and includes features such as a heavier barrel, a metal trigger guard and safety, and the ability to disassemble without tools. The Mossberg 590A1 is an even more robust variant, often used by military and law enforcement, featuring a thicker barrel and additional durability enhancements.

Is a 20-gauge a good turkey gun?

Yes, a 20-gauge shotgun can be a good choice for turkey hunting. It offers less recoil than a 12-gauge, making it easier to handle, especially for smaller or younger hunters. With advancements in ammunition, such as high-density and specialized turkey loads, a 20-gauge can effectively bring down a turkey at reasonable distances. However, shot placement and range management are crucial to ensure a clean and ethical kill.

How many shells does a Mossberg 20-gauge hold?

A standard Mossberg 20-gauge shotgun typically holds 5+1 shells, which means it can hold five shells in the magazine tube and one in the chamber, for a total of six. However, the capacity can vary depending on the specific model and any modifications or restrictions.

Why own a 20 gauge shotgun?

Owning a 20-gauge shotgun can offer several advantages:

1. **Recoil Management**: The 20-gauge typically has less recoil than a 12-gauge, making it more comfortable to shoot, especially for younger, smaller, or less experienced shooters.

2. **Versatility**: It is suitable for a variety of uses, including hunting small to medium game (such as birds and deer), skeet and trap shooting, and even home defense.

3. **Weight and Size**: 20-gauge shotguns are generally lighter and easier to handle, making them a good choice for those who need a more maneuverable firearm.

4. **Ammo Availability**: While not as widespread as 12-gauge options, 20-gauge ammunition is still commonly available and comes in a wide range of loads.

5. **Teachability**: Due to their manageable recoil and lighter weight, 20-gauge shotguns can serve as an excellent training platform for new shooters.

Overall, the 20-gauge shotgun is a versatile and user-friendly firearm that meets the needs of many hunters and shooters.

What is the killing range of a 20-gauge shotgun?

The effective killing range of a 20-gauge shotgun generally varies depending on the type of ammunition used and the intended target. For hunting small game or birds, the effective range is typically around 20 to 30 yards. For larger game, the range may be a bit shorter, roughly 20 to 25 yards. It’s important to note that this can vary based on factors like the choke of the shotgun, the specific load, and environmental conditions.

Is a 4 shot or 6 shot better for turkey?

For turkey hunting, a 6 shot is generally considered better than a 4 shot. Shot size 6 offers a denser pattern, which can be more effective for ensuring a cleaner kill on a turkey, given their smaller vital areas. It provides a good balance between pellet count and energy, making it effective at typical turkey hunting ranges.

What choke to use for turkey?

For turkey hunting, a full or extra-full choke is typically recommended. These chokes provide a tighter shot pattern, which is ideal for hitting the small vital area of a turkey at longer ranges. Always make sure to check your pattern and adjust your equipment as necessary for the best results.

Can you use a Mossberg 500 for hunting?

Yes, the Mossberg 500 is a versatile shotgun that is commonly used for hunting. It is suitable for hunting a variety of game, including birds, small game, and even larger game like deer, depending on the specific model and configuration, such as barrel length and choke.

What type of shotgun is best for turkey?

For turkey hunting, a 12-gauge shotgun is commonly considered the best choice due to its versatility and effectiveness. It offers a good balance between power and recoil. Many hunters also prefer using a shotgun with a 3-inch or 3.5-inch chamber to accommodate larger shells, which can improve range and pattern density. Additionally, turkey hunters often use a shotgun with a tight choke, such as a full or extra-full choke, to ensure a denser shot pattern. Ultimately, the best shotgun will depend on personal preference, experience, and comfort.

Which shotgun choke is best for turkey?

The best shotgun choke for turkey hunting is typically a full or extra-full choke. These chokes provide a tight pattern at longer distances, which is ideal for targeting turkeys. However, the choice can depend on the specific shotgun, ammunition, and hunting conditions, so it’s advisable to pattern-test different chokes and loads to determine what works best for your setup.