Imagine this: the gobble echoes in the distance, your heart races, and you raise your trusty 20-gauge. But will your shot pattern be tight enough to bring home that trophy tom? Choosing the right choke for your 20-gauge shotgun when turkey hunting can feel like a puzzle with missing pieces. You want the best performance, but the sheer number of choke types and brands can leave you scratching your head.
This isn’t just about picking any old piece of metal. The right choke makes a huge difference in how your shot spreads out, directly impacting your success in the field. You’ve spent time and money scouting, practicing your calls, and getting your gear ready. Don’t let a poor choke choice be the reason your hunt falls short. We get it – the confusion is real, and the stakes are high for any turkey hunter.
By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes a 20-gauge turkey choke special. We’ll break down the key features to look for, explain what different constrictions mean, and help you figure out which choke will give you the tightest, most effective patterns for those long-range shots. Get ready to choose a choke that boosts your confidence and your chances of success this spring.
Our Top 5 20 Ga Turkey Choke Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 20 Ga Turkey Choke Detailed Reviews
1. TRUGLO Head Banger TG188X Winchester/Mossberg 20 GA Long Range CNC-Machined Heat-Treated Steel Turkey Choke Tube
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your turkey hunting game with the TRUGLO Head Banger TG188X Turkey Choke Tube. This choke tube is built for serious hunters who demand precision and power. It’s designed to help you hit those long-range targets with tight, consistent patterns. Made from strong, heat-treated steel, it can handle powerful turkey loads. You’ll notice a difference in your shot placement and range.
What We Like:
- Multi-phase groove technology creates super tight shot patterns.
- It extends your effective shooting range, letting you reach farther.
- Works with popular turkey loads like HEVISHOT and Federal Premium 3rd Degree.
- CNC machining ensures great accuracy and a perfect fit.
- Heat-treated steel makes it very strong and long-lasting.
- The polished end face helps it seat better for maximum power.
- It’s endorsed by the National Wild Turkey Federation, proving its quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific shotgun models are required for compatibility.
- May require some practice to master its full potential.
This TRUGLO Head Banger choke tube is a smart investment for any serious turkey hunter. It delivers the performance you need to bring down that big gobbler.
2. Carlsons Choke Tubes 20 Gauge for Winchester – Browning Inv – Moss 500 [ Turkey
![Carlsons Choke Tubes 20 Gauge for Winchester - Browning Inv - Moss 500 [ Turkey | 0.568 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Long Beard Turkey Choke Tube | Made in USA](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31oSccnHlsL._SL500_.jpg "Top 5 20 Ga Turkey Chokes: Your Best Hunting Guide 9")
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to bag more birds with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge Long Beard Turkey Choke Tube. This choke tube is designed for Winchester, Browning Invector, and Mossberg 500 shotguns. It’s made of blued steel and has a 0.568 diameter, perfect for turkey hunting.
What We Like:
- Proven Performance: Carlson’s has over 30 years of experience testing choke tubes. They use special software to analyze thousands of shot and choke combinations. This means you get a choke tube that helps you aim more accurately and hit your target.
- Built Tough: This choke tube is made from high-quality stainless steel. It’s built to last and deliver great results. It gives you 10% more penetration than regular lead shot, even at distances over 50 yards. This helps you hit your target hard and keep your shots tight for long-range success.
- Precision Design: The Long Beard Turkey choke tube is specifically made for turkey hunting. It’s constricted to a turkey choke size and measures 0.568 in diameter. This precise design helps throw your shot in a nearly perfect round pattern.
- Lifetime Guarantee: Carlson’s Choke Tubes stands behind their products. They offer a lifetime warranty on all their choke tubes. This lets you focus on hunting without worrying about your equipment.
- Made in the USA: Feel good knowing that all Carlson’s Choke Tubes are made right here in the United States.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Fit: While it fits Winchester, Browning Invector, and Mossberg 500, it’s important to confirm your shotgun’s specific model compatibility before purchasing.
This choke tube is a fantastic upgrade for any 20-gauge turkey hunter. It’s built to perform and backed by a company with a long history of excellence.
3. Carlsons Choke Tubes 20 Gauge 17-4 Heat-Treated Black Stainless Steel Extended Turkey Choke Tube for Winchester – Browning Inv – Moss 500 Guns
Rating: 8.9/10
Take your turkey hunting to the next level with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge Extended Turkey Choke Tube. This USA-made choke tube is built tough from heat-treated stainless steel. It’s designed to help you get those super tight shots needed to bring down a gobbler. It fits many popular shotguns like Winchester, Browning Invincible, and Mossberg 500. You can trust Carlson’s for great performance when it matters most.
What We Like:
- Creates really tight and dense shot patterns for better accuracy on turkeys.
- Made from strong, heat-treated stainless steel that resists rust.
- Extends about an inch from your barrel, making it easy to see and use.
- Works with most lead and Hevi-Shot loads, plus TSS turkey loads.
- Clearly marked constriction on the end makes it easy to know what you’re using.
- Proudly made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cannot be used with steel shot larger than #4.
This choke tube offers excellent performance for serious turkey hunters. It’s a solid investment for improving your success in the field.
4. Carlsons Choke Tubes 20 Gauge Compatible for Beretta Benelli Mobil [ Turkey
![Carlsons Choke Tubes 20 Gauge Compatible for Beretta Benelli Mobil [ Turkey | 0.565 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Extended Turkey Choke Tube | Made in USA](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31+1DLR4j-L._SL500_.jpg "Top 5 20 Ga Turkey Chokes: Your Best Hunting Guide 11")
Rating: 9.0/10
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge Extended Turkey Choke Tube is built for serious turkey hunters. It’s designed to fit Beretta and Benelli Mobil shotguns and delivers incredibly tight patterns. This choke tube is made in the USA and comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can trust its quality and performance when you’re out in the field.
What We Like:
- Built with over 30 years of testing and data to ensure the best aim.
- Made from high-quality 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel that handles tough turkey loads.
- Produces extra-tight patterns, especially with copper-plated and buffered lead turkey shotshells.
- Specifically constricted for turkey hunting at a 0.565 diameter for excellent performance.
- Comes with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
- Proudly manufactured in the United States.
What Could Be Improved:
- Compatibility is specific to Beretta Benelli Mobil systems; users with other shotgun models will need different chokes.
- While excellent for turkey, it may be too restrictive for other types of bird hunting.
This choke tube is a top-tier choice for any hunter targeting turkeys. Its precise engineering and robust construction mean you can rely on it for accurate shots season after season.
5. Primos Hunting PS6779 Tightwad Choke Tube
Rating: 9.1/10
The Primos Hunting PS6779 Tightwad Choke Tube is a game-changer for any serious turkey hunter. This choke tube is specifically designed for 20-gauge shotguns and boasts a .570 Invector constriction, meaning it squeezes your shot pattern for maximum effectiveness. Its black, one-size design fits many popular shotguns, making it a versatile addition to your hunting gear. You can expect incredibly tight patterns, delivering densely spread pellets into a 30-inch circle at 40 yards, which is crucial for clean, ethical harvests.
What We Like:
- Creates incredibly dense shot patterns for better accuracy.
- Achieves a tight 30-inch circle at 40 yards, increasing your effective range.
- Designed for 20-gauge shotguns, a popular choice for turkey hunting.
- Durable black finish adds to its rugged appeal.
- Easy to install and use, even for beginners.
What Could Be Improved:
- May require some experimentation to find the perfect load for your specific shotgun.
- Some hunters might prefer a wider variety of constriction options.
This choke tube will significantly improve your turkey hunting success. It helps you put more pellets on target when it matters most.
Unlock Your Turkey Hunting Potential: A 20 Gauge Turkey Choke Buying Guide
Hunting turkeys with a 20 gauge shotgun can be a thrilling experience. A good turkey choke is a vital piece of gear that helps you hit your target with more accuracy. This guide will help you choose the best 20 gauge turkey choke for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a 20 gauge turkey choke, keep these important features in mind:
- Constriction: This is how much the choke narrows the end of your shotgun barrel. For turkey hunting, you want a tighter constriction. This means the shot pattern will be more focused at longer distances. Chokes are usually measured in inches or by how much they reduce the bore diameter. Look for chokes that offer a tight pattern, often called “extra full” or “turkey” constriction.
- Porting: Some chokes have small holes or slots cut into them. These are called ports. Ports help reduce recoil, which is the kick you feel when you shoot. Less recoil means you can shoot more comfortably and accurately. They also can help reduce muzzle jump, so your sight stays on target.
- Length: Turkey chokes can come in different lengths. Longer chokes often provide a more gradual constriction, which can help keep your shot pattern tighter for longer. A longer choke can also help with recoil reduction.
- Compatibility: Make sure the choke you buy is designed for your specific shotgun model and gauge. Not all chokes fit all shotguns. Check the manufacturer’s specifications carefully.
Important Materials
The material a choke is made from affects its durability and performance.
- Steel: Many good turkey chokes are made from high-quality steel. Steel is strong and can withstand the pressures of firing shotgun shells.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a popular choice because it resists rust and corrosion. This is important, especially if you hunt in wet conditions. It also adds to the choke’s durability.
- Tungsten: Some premium chokes use tungsten alloys. Tungsten is a very dense metal. Chokes made with tungsten can be smaller but still provide excellent constriction and pattern performance. They are often lighter than steel chokes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a turkey choke better or worse.
- Precision Machining: A well-made choke is precisely machined. This means the inside of the choke is smooth and consistent. This consistency helps the shot pellets travel through the choke without deforming. Smooth pellet travel leads to a tighter, more even pattern.
- Tight Tolerances: Good chokes have tight tolerances. This means the measurements are very exact. This exactness ensures a proper fit in your shotgun barrel and consistent performance shot after shot.
- Poor Fit: If a choke doesn’t fit your barrel well, it can cause problems. A loose choke can affect your shot pattern. It might also be dangerous. Always ensure a snug and secure fit.
- Low-Quality Materials: Using cheap or low-quality materials can lead to a choke that wears out quickly or doesn’t perform as expected. This can result in inconsistent patterns and reduced accuracy.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using the right turkey choke can significantly improve your hunting success.
- Long-Range Accuracy: A tight-patterning turkey choke allows you to take accurate shots at longer distances. This is crucial for turkey hunting, where a clean, ethical shot is important. You can confidently aim for a turkey at 40 or even 50 yards.
- Improved Shot Density: A good choke concentrates your shot pellets into a tighter pattern. This means more pellets hit the turkey, increasing your chances of a successful hunt. You won’t have as many “flyers” or scattered shots.
- Reduced Recoil: As mentioned, ported chokes can help reduce the felt recoil. This makes for a more pleasant shooting experience and helps you stay on target for follow-up shots if needed.
- Versatility: While designed for turkey hunting, some chokes can also be used for other hunting situations where a tight pattern is beneficial, like hunting large game with slugs. However, always check the choke’s specifications for approved ammunition.
Frequently Asked Questions about 20 Gauge Turkey Chokes
Q: What is the best constriction for a 20 gauge turkey choke?
A: For turkey hunting, you generally want a very tight constriction. Look for chokes labeled “extra full,” “turkey,” or specific constriction percentages like .035 inches or tighter. This helps keep your shot pattern tight at longer ranges.
Q: Will a turkey choke hurt my shotgun?
A: No, a properly fitted and high-quality turkey choke will not hurt your shotgun. It is designed to work with your firearm. However, always ensure it’s the correct choke for your specific gun model and gauge.
Q: Can I use any type of shotgun shell with a turkey choke?
A: Most turkey chokes are designed for lead shot. Some may be rated for other types of shot like bismuth or tungsten. Always check the choke manufacturer’s recommendations for compatible ammunition types and loads. Do not use steel shot in chokes not rated for it, as it can damage the choke and barrel.
Q: How do I clean my turkey choke?
A: Clean your choke regularly with a good gun solvent and a brush. Make sure to remove any residue from gunpowder or shot. A clean choke performs better. Dry it thoroughly after cleaning.
Q: How often should I change my turkey choke?
A: A good quality turkey choke, when properly maintained, can last for many years. You only need to replace it if it becomes damaged or if you upgrade your shotgun.
Q: What is the difference between a turkey choke and a standard choke?
A: A turkey choke has a much tighter constriction than standard chokes like improved cylinder or modified. This tighter constriction focuses the shot pellets into a smaller, denser pattern, which is ideal for hitting a turkey’s vital zone at longer distances.
Q: Do ported chokes really reduce recoil?
A: Yes, the ports on a choke help to redirect some of the expanding gases from the fired shell. This redirection can help reduce the felt recoil and muzzle jump, making shooting more comfortable.
Q: How do I know if a choke will fit my 20 gauge shotgun?
A: Chokes are made for specific shotgun models and barrel types. Check the choke’s product description or packaging for a list of compatible shotgun brands and models. You can also consult your shotgun’s owner’s manual.
Q: Is a longer turkey choke always better?
A: Longer chokes can offer a more gradual constriction, which can lead to better pattern performance and recoil reduction. However, the “best” length can depend on your shotgun and personal preference. Test different options if possible.
Q: Where can I buy a 20 gauge turkey choke?
A: You can find 20 gauge turkey chokes at most sporting goods stores, gun shops, and online retailers that specialize in firearm accessories.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.