Choosing the right turkey choke for your Remington 870 is crucial for a successful hunt. The wrong choke can mean the difference between a clean kill and a missed opportunity. This guide will delve into the specifics of selecting the ideal choke for your shotgun and hunting situation. We'll cover choke types, patterns, and considerations to ensure you're ready for the spring gobbler season.
Understanding Turkey Choke Tubes
A choke tube restricts the diameter of the barrel at the muzzle, influencing the shot pattern. For turkey hunting, you need a tight pattern to deliver a concentrated payload at extended ranges. Your Remington 870, known for its versatility, can accommodate various choke tubes, providing flexibility for different hunting scenarios.
Types of Turkey Chokes:
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Extra Full: This is the tightest constriction available, offering the densest pattern at longer ranges. Ideal for shots exceeding 40 yards, but it requires exceptional accuracy and precision due to the tight grouping. Over-choking can lead to reduced effective range due to pellet deformation.
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Full: A popular choice for turkey hunters, striking a balance between pattern density and effective range. It's a versatile option effective for shots within 30-40 yards. Provides a dense enough pattern for clean kills but with slightly more forgiving shot placement than an extra-full choke.
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Improved Cylinder: While not traditionally used for turkey hunting, some hunters utilize an Improved Cylinder choke for closer-range shots, especially when dealing with exceptionally large birds or thick cover. This option results in a wider shot pattern, increasing the chance of hitting the target but decreasing the density of pellets at range.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Choke:
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Shot Size: The shot size used significantly impacts the pattern. Smaller shot sizes (e.g., #4, #5, #6) will generally create tighter patterns with the same choke constriction compared to larger shot sizes (e.g., #2, #4). Consider the shot size you intend to use when selecting the choke tube.
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Range: The distance at which you anticipate taking your shot heavily influences choke selection. Longer ranges require tighter chokes like Extra Full or Full, while closer ranges allow for the use of slightly less constricted chokes.
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Ammunition: The quality and type of ammunition used directly affects the resulting pattern. Testing various loads with different chokes is highly recommended to determine the optimal combination for your firearm.
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Shot Pattern Testing: This is crucial. Before heading out for the hunt, meticulously pattern your shotgun with your chosen ammunition and choke tube at various distances. This will provide invaluable insight into the pattern density and help determine the maximum effective range of your setup. This testing process involves shooting at a target (like a large sheet of paper) at different distances to evaluate the spread and density of the shot.
Tips for Optimal Performance:
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Clean Your Choke Tubes Regularly: Maintain your choke tubes by cleaning them thoroughly after each use. This prevents buildup and ensures optimal performance.
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Proper Gun Fit: Ensure your Remington 870 fits you correctly. A poor-fitting shotgun can negatively impact your accuracy and overall shooting performance.
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Practice: Regularly practice with your shotgun and chosen choke tube to hone your skills and develop confidence.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right turkey choke for your Remington 870 involves careful consideration of several factors. By understanding choke types, shot size, range, and ammunition, along with conducting thorough pattern testing, you'll significantly improve your chances of a successful turkey hunt. Remember that proper practice and gun fit contribute just as significantly to a successful outcome. This guide provides a foundational understanding; always prioritize safety and responsible hunting practices.
