Author Topic: Turkey loads for 12 gauge handi (Read 685 times)

300winman · « **on:** March 22, 2005, 05:51:08 PM »

Just received a 12gauge 24" full choke barrel for my handi. Shot some 3" federal 1 7/8 ounce turkey loads(ouch). These loads are a bit much for me and was wondering what is a good turkey round for the handi. My barrel has a 3 1/2" chambering, but after firing these 3" loads I'm really shying away from any 3 1/2" loads. Any inputs greatly appreciated.

Markus · « **Reply #1 on:** March 23, 2005, 12:58:27 AM »

Make sure the chamber is clean. A lot of times when they come from the factory they need a good cleaning. if that don't get it polish the chamber. Do a search in this forum for instructions.

DaveH · « **Reply #2 on:** March 23, 2005, 12:32:00 PM »

I'm planning on using my NEF 16 ga to fill my second turkey tag this year. After allot of resreach and range time I found the PMC heavy field load #4 shot to be the best non turkey load for what I plan to do. But Winchester, Remington and Federal make a 2 3/4 in turkey load. I have found that when it the field shooting at live game the recoil isn't anywhere close to as bad as when your shooting at a target. So you might want to tough out the range time and use something a little heavier hunting...
In my set up for hunting with my 16 ga I'm not planning on taking any shot over 25 yrds.

ncmtnhillbilly · « **Reply #3 on:** March 24, 2005, 08:59:27 PM »

you are wise to stay away from the 3.5 they are brutal, on my set up same as your barrel lenght, the 3 in winchester 6`s did well out to 35 yards,give those a try.

Good luck

Bill

Markus · « **Reply #4 on:** March 26, 2005, 01:36:13 AM »

A lot of reports seem to suggest that the very slight increase in pattern density is not worth the beating you take. My only experience with them is shooting No.2 hevi-shot for geese. They did in deed kill the geese but they were'nt any more dead than the geese I've shot with 3' and 2 3/4" loads. I really don't see a reason to use 3 1/2" shells in these guns. If you want more pellets go to the 10ga. By all reports and personal experience the kick is no worse.

Mac11700 · « **Reply #5 on:** March 29, 2005, 07:10:00 AM »

Have a look at the new offering from Federal...and they do come in 3" loads too...

http://www.federalcartridge.com/default.asp?menu=1&s1=4&s2=6&id=66&brand=5&year=2005

Mac

MSP Ret · « **Reply #6 on:** March 29, 2005, 07:51:33 AM »

I am pretty sure the 16 gauge only comes in 2 3/4" loadings....<><.... :grin: l