Best Turkey Hunting Calibers: 12 Gauge vs. 20 Gauge vs. .410 Bore and More
Breaking down the best shotgun calibers for turkey hunting success.
Choosing the right caliber for turkey hunting can feel like trying to pick the perfect fishing lure—there are just too many options, and everyone has a strong opinion. Whether you’re chasing Osceola gobblers in Florida or Merriam’s in the Rockies, selecting the right shotgun caliber can make or break your hunt. Let’s break down the most popular options and help you bag that bird with confidence.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | 12 gauge | 20 gauge | .410 bore | 10 gauge | 28 gauge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recoil How much kick you can expect from the caliber. |
High | Moderate | Low | Very High | Low |
| Effective Range Maximum range for ethical turkey hunting. |
50+ yards | 40-50 yards | 30-40 yards | 50+ yards | 30-40 yards |
| Ammo Availability How easy it is to find ammunition for this caliber. |
Widely Available | Widely Available | Moderately Available | Moderately Available | Limited Availability |
| Weight of Gun How heavy the typical shotgun is for this caliber. |
Moderate | Light | Very Light | Heavy | Very Light |
| Best Use Case Ideal hunting scenarios for this caliber. |
All-around turkey hunting | Youth hunters or smaller-framed adults | Close-range hunts or beginners | Experienced hunters targeting long-range gobblers | Close-range hunts with lightweight gear |
12 gauge
The 12 gauge is the king of versatility in turkey hunting. With a wide variety of loads available, it offers excellent stopping power and range. It’s the go-to choice for most turkey hunters and can handle any subspecies of turkey with ease.
Pros
- Wide ammo availability
- Excellent range and stopping power
- Versatile for all turkey subspecies
Cons
- Recoil can be harsh for some hunters
- Shotguns can be heavier
Interesting Fact: The 12 gauge is so popular that you’ll find turkey-specific loads in every sporting goods store, from TSS to traditional lead shot.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a do-it-all shotgun for turkey hunting.
20 gauge
The 20 gauge is a lighter, more manageable option that still packs enough punch for turkey hunting. It’s especially popular among youth hunters and those who prefer a lighter shotgun.
Pros
- Lower recoil
- Lighter weight
- Great for smaller-framed hunters
Cons
- Slightly reduced range compared to 12 gauge
- Less versatile for other game
Interesting Fact: With advancements in TSS (Tungsten Super Shot), the 20 gauge is closing the gap on the 12 gauge in terms of effective range.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a lighter shotgun with manageable recoil.
.410 bore
The .410 bore is the smallest of the bunch, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those who want a lightweight, low-recoil option. However, its effective range is limited, and shot placement becomes critical.
Pros
- Minimal recoil
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Limited range
- Requires precise shot placement
- Less forgiving than larger calibers
Interesting Fact: The .410 bore has seen a resurgence in turkey hunting thanks to TSS loads, which extend its effective range.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting close-range turkeys or introducing a new hunter to the sport.
10 gauge
The 10 gauge is a powerhouse, delivering incredible range and stopping power. It’s ideal for experienced hunters targeting long-range gobblers, but the trade-off is significant recoil and a heavier shotgun.
Pros
- Longest effective range
- Devastating stopping power
- Great for open terrain
Cons
- Very high recoil
- Heavy and cumbersome
- Ammo can be harder to find
Interesting Fact: The 10 gauge is often referred to as the ‘cannon’ of turkey hunting calibers due to its sheer power.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re an experienced hunter looking for maximum range and power.
28 gauge
The 28 gauge is a niche option for turkey hunting, offering a lightweight and low-recoil experience. While it lacks the range and power of larger calibers, it’s a fun and effective choice for close-range hunts.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Low recoil
- Fun to shoot
Cons
- Limited range
- Ammo availability can be an issue
- Not as versatile as larger calibers
Interesting Fact: The 28 gauge is often overlooked, but with the right load, it can be surprisingly effective for turkey hunting.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re looking for a lightweight option for close-range turkey hunting.
Conclusion
When it comes to turkey hunting, the right caliber depends on your hunting style, experience level, and personal preferences. The 12 gauge remains the most versatile option, while the 20 gauge and .410 bore cater to hunters seeking lighter, lower-recoil alternatives. For those who want maximum range, the 10 gauge is a powerhouse, and the 28 gauge offers a niche, lightweight option for close-range hunts. No matter your choice, the right caliber can make all the difference in bagging that gobbler.