Imagine this: You’ve spent weeks scouting. You hear that unmistakable gobble echoing through the misty morning woods. You raise your shotgun, aim carefully at the strutting tom, and pull the trigger. But instead of a clean, ethical harvest, your shots spread out too much, and that magnificent bird walks away untouched. Frustrating, right?
Choosing the correct turkey choke is one of the most critical decisions you make before heading out. It’s the difference between a tight, devastating pattern at 40 yards and a weak, ineffective spray. With so many confusing terms—like Extra Full, Modified, and constriction percentages—it’s easy to feel lost in the hardware store aisle. You want maximum knockdown power without sacrificing reliability, but how do you know which choke delivers?
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what a turkey choke does, explain the key measurements you need to know, and show you how to match the perfect choke to your specific shotgun and ammunition. Prepare to stop guessing and start patterning with confidence. Let’s dive into the secrets of achieving that perfect, dense pattern for your next successful hunt.
Table of Contents
Top Turkey Hunting Chokes Recommendations
![CARLSON'S Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Turkey | 0.660 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Long Beard Turkey Choke Tube | Made in USA](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41h7U9PfNgL._SL160_.jpg)
- 30 YEARS WORTH OF PATTERNS: No other company like ours at Carlson's Choke Tubes with 30 plus years of experienced patterning and testing data, by analyzed thousands of load and choke combos with our proprietary software. We bring you the best and most accurate aim choke tubes for your hunting needs.
- HIGH-QUALITY MANUFACTURED: Our high quality Long Beard Turkey for Remington is made of high quality Stainless Steel. This tom-dropping dynamic duo serves-up 10% greater penetration over standard lead shot at distances of more than 50 yards, terminal on-target performance and allows nearly perfectly round shot to be thrown from the barrel for extremely tight, long-range patterns.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: Carlson's Choke Tubes Long Beard Turkey for Remington 12 Gauge constricted at Turkey and measured at 0.660 diameter.
- LIFETIME WARRANTY: We back all of our choke tubes with our lifetime warranty so you can focus on busting clays and filling bag limits.
- MADE IN THE USA: All our Carlson's Choke Tubes are made, right here, in the United States.
- MULTI-PHASE GROOVE TECHNOLOGY - Multi-phase groove technology engages the shot cup and guides the pellets into a tight and consistent pattern, shot after shot; extend your effective range with patterns that reach out farther
- COMPATIBLE WITH - These durable heat-treated steal choke tubes rated for HEVISHOT, Winchester, Long Beard XR, Federal Premium 3rd Degree and other high-performance turkey loads
- PRECISE CHOKE TUBES - The Truglo Head Banger choke tubes are CNC– machined for optimum precision; heat-treated steel for increased strength and durability with powerful turkey loads
- BETTER SEATING - Polished end face for better seating and sealing, providing maximum power without pressure loss; choke tubes help control the dispersion of shot inside the shotshell
- PROVED QUALITY - Truglo Choke Tubes are endorsed by the National Wild Turkey Federation; Truglo knows you need a tight pattern to bring down that wary old Tom that just walked out and their line of Choke tubes are made to make sure. we recommend a gunsmith to install this.
- EASY-TO-SEE TRUGLO GUN SIGHT AND CHOKE TUBE COMBO - Take aim with the proper sight and tighten up your shot with the Gobble Stopper Xtreme Turkey Choke Tube Combo; the TRUGLO Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Sight and Choke Tube Combos include a Gobble-Dot universal turkey sight and a TRUGLO Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube
- VERSATILE GUN COMBO - Your accuracy will improve, as will your chances of success when you're hunting turkeys with the TRUGLO Gobble Stopper Xtreme Turkey Choke Tube Combo: turkey chokes for all turkey loads, Gobble-Dot universal turkey sight has extremely low-profile fit, turkey sight fits all ventilated rib guns
- TURKEY GUN SIGHT - The TRUGLO Gobble dot is a universal fit extremely low profile turkey gun sight for barrels with vent ribs; the TruGlo Gobble Dot Universal gun sight provides an ideal aim, you just need to line up three points of contrast; the fiber optics sights mount to the rib of any shotgun and are held in place by high strength double sided tape
- PRECISE CHOKE TUBES -These choke tubes are machined from high-grade stainless steel to exacting tolerances for tighter patterns at extended range; the ported design promotes tighter patterns and reduces both muzzle flip and felt recoil; the knurled outer surface promotes easy removal for quick and easy cleaning
- TRUGLO QUALITY - Take aim with the proper sight and tighten up your shot with the Gobble Stopper Xtreme Turkey Choke Tube Combo; featuring a ported design, the Gobble Stopper Xtreme is a solid choice for any turkey hunter; the Gobble Dot Universal Dual Color is the original turkey sight in dual color; it is a great addition to your gun to increase precision and accuracy; it gives you quick target acquisition
- Specifically designed for TSS loads that have become very popular with turkey hunters but will also shoot super tight patterns with HEVI-Shot, Copper Plated and Lead Shot
- The TSS Jelly Head allows hunters to have a super-tight, evenly spread pattern allowing them the accuracy to kill even the toughest of gobblers
- his extended choke tube allows for easy installation without the use of tools
- TSS Jelly Head Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Turkey in Steel Black
- TURKEY CALLING SOLUTION - This kit includes essential calls such as the Suzie Snood Double Glass Wild Turkey Call, Hammerin Crow Call, Hooter Owl Call, and Premium Double D call, ensuring hunters have all the tools necessary for a successful hunt
- REALISTIC SOUNDS - The Suzie Snood Double Glass Wild Turkey Call is expertly designed to replicate authentic turkey sounds, enhancing your ability to lure wild turkeys effectively, whether you're seeking to entice a distant tom or coax in a wary hen
- VERSATILE CROW AND OWL CALLS - The Hammerin Crow Call and Hooter Owl Call expand your hunting strategy by offering versatile options for drawing in turkeys as well as other game species, allowing you to adapt your approach depending on the conditions
- PREMIUM DIAPHRAGM CALL - The Premium Double D diaphragm call is crafted for ease of use, enabling hunters to produce a wide variety of turkey sounds with minimal effort, making it a fantastic option to improve calling skills
- DURABILITY FOR FIELD USE - Each call in the Super Strut Combo Kit is made from high-quality materials that ensure they can withstand the rigors of outdoor conditions, providing reliable performance throughout the hunting season
- Delivers dense and even patterns
- Provides maximum kinetic energy at extended ranges
- Designed with straight rifling, ensuring more pellets stay on target
- TURKEY HUNTING - The Code Black Turkey .665 uses several different technologies to achieve incredible down-range energy at a distance; Patternmaster is ready to cover your hunting ambitions
- COMBINED TECHNOLOGIES - This Code Black Turkey .665 12 Gauge uses our Separating Ring technology as well as our canoe-porting in order to shorten the shot-string by as much as 75% over other constriction tubes while also improving the effective range
- CONSTRUCTION - The Code Black Turkey is built from titanium-infused 17-4ph Stainless Steel and more than 100 years of combined experience; The Turkey tube will extend out the end of your barrel 1 1/2" & comes with a bronze Titanium coating for easier concealment
- DURABLE & SECURE - Incorporating SecureFit threading, that provides tight fitting with zero pressure loss, this choke tube delivers the best patterns; Outer Coating - heat treated for maximum durability & coated in a titanium, non-reflective bronze finish
- UP TO 70 YARDS - With this 12-gauge choke tube for turkey hunting you can expect an extra full pattern with an effective range of up to 70 yards; For best results, Ballistic Performance, LLC
![CARLSON’S Choke Tubes Beretta Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Choke Tube [ Downrange | .650 Diameter ] Long Beard Turkey Choke Tubes | Made in USA, Black, 70130](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41UGEKlvIGL._SL160_.jpg)
- Fits beretta/Benelli mobile shotguns (.650 constriction)
- Manufactured from 17-4 stainless steel
- Features shot-look technology that allows for the tightest patterns and longer downrange reach over any turkey load on the market
- Has a 25% longer Parallel section, thus throwing tighter and denser patterns downrange
- Triple shot technology reduces pellet deformation, shortened shot string and has less Flyers
Choosing the Right Turkey Hunting Choke: A Buyer’s Guide
Picking the right turkey choke makes a huge difference when you are hunting those elusive gobblers. A choke is a device that screws into the end of your shotgun barrel. It squeezes the shot pattern as it leaves the barrel. A good choke creates a tight pattern, meaning more pellets hit the turkey’s head and neck area. This guide helps you choose the best one for your hunt.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a turkey choke, several features matter most. You want a choke that shoots a dense, tight pattern at longer ranges. This gives you a better ethical shot opportunity.
Constriction Level
Chokes are rated by how much they squeeze the barrel. Turkey hunting usually requires **Extra Full** or **Super Full** constriction. These tight constrictions pack the shot closely together. Check the manufacturer’s recommended range for your specific shotgun and shell combination. Too much constriction can damage some barrels, so always follow the guide.
Porting and Surface Finish
Some chokes have ports (small holes) or vents cut into the outside. These ports help reduce recoil and muzzle jump. This lets you see your hits faster for follow-up shots. A smooth, polished interior finish helps the shot cup slide out easily, which keeps the pattern consistent. Rough interiors can snag the shot cup and ruin the pattern.
Knurling and Removal
Look at how easy the choke is to install and remove. Some chokes have knurled (textured) edges. This texture helps you grip and turn the choke without a special wrench. If you plan on changing chokes often, an easy-to-grip design is a big plus.
Important Materials for Durability
The material of your choke directly affects how long it lasts and how well it performs under high pressure.
- Stainless Steel: This is the most common material. Good stainless steel resists rust and handles the high pressures from modern turkey loads very well. It offers great durability for the price.
- Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) Compatibility: If you plan to use newer, heavier TSS ammunition, ensure your choke is rated for it. Tungsten is much denser than lead. Some older steel chokes might not handle the wear from TSS as well as specially designed steel or specialized alloys.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your choke determines your success in the field.
What Improves Quality?
Precision manufacturing is key. High-quality chokes are often machined precisely to very tight tolerances. This means the squeeze inside the barrel is exactly what the manufacturer claims. A choke designed specifically for your shotgun gauge (e.g., 12 gauge or 20 gauge) and the specific type of turkey load (like #4, #5, or TSS) will perform much better. Always test patterns before the season starts!
What Reduces Quality?
Poorly made chokes can cause problems. If the threads are rough, they can damage your shotgun barrel threads when you screw them in or take them out. Also, using the wrong type of choke for your ammunition drastically reduces pattern quality. For example, using an old, tight lead-shot choke with modern, hard TSS pellets might cause inconsistent patterns or even damage.
User Experience and Use Cases
Your hunting style dictates the best choke choice.
Close-Range Hunter
If you usually hunt in thick woods where shots are under 30 yards, a very tight **Extra Full** choke works great. It ensures maximum pellet count on a small target area up close.
Long-Range Hunter
If you often face open fields and need reliable hits out to 40 or 50 yards, you need a top-tier, custom-grade choke designed for TSS or premium lead loads. These specialized chokes offer the tightest patterns possible without sacrificing safety or consistency at distance.
Remember, the best choke is the one that patterns best in your specific shotgun with your preferred ammunition. Always pattern your gun before hunting!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Turkey Chokes
Q: Do I really need a special turkey choke?
A: Yes. Turkey chokes are much tighter than standard hunting chokes. They help keep all your pellets grouped tightly for a clean kill shot on the turkey’s head.
Q: Can I use the same choke for turkey and deer hunting?
A: No. Turkey hunting needs a very tight choke. Deer hunting with slugs requires a much more open choke to avoid damaging the barrel.
Q: What is the difference between a ported and non-ported choke?
A: Ported chokes have small holes on the outside. These holes help reduce felt recoil and muzzle flip, making it easier to see where your shot landed.
Q: Will a very tight choke damage my shotgun barrel?
A: It can if you use the wrong load. You must check your shotgun manufacturer’s guidelines. Some older barrels cannot handle the extreme constriction of modern extra-full chokes, especially with very hard pellets.
Q: Should I use a fixed choke or a screw-in choke?
A: Screw-in chokes are better for turkey hunting because they let you change the constriction. Fixed chokes are permanent and usually too open for turkey hunting success.
Q: What shotgun gauge is most common for turkey hunting?
A: The 12 gauge is the most popular because it carries the most shot. However, the 20 gauge is gaining popularity, especially for smaller hunters, and modern chokes make it very effective.
Q: What is the ideal choke constriction for a 12 gauge?
A: Most hunters aim for Extra Full or Super Full constriction, usually resulting in a constriction difference of 0.035 inches or more below the bore diameter.
Q: How do I know if my choke is patterning well?
A: You must pattern your gun. Shoot at a large piece of cardboard (like 3 feet by 3 feet) at your maximum intended range (e.g., 40 yards). Count the hits in the vital zone (the turkey’s head/neck area).
Q: What is the best material if I use tungsten (TSS) shot?
A: While high-quality stainless steel works, many shooters prefer specialized steel alloys or chokes specifically advertised as TSS-rated for maximum longevity and pattern consistency with these very hard pellets.
Q: How tight should I screw in the choke?
A: You should screw it in firmly by hand. Most chokes should be hand-tightened. Using a wrench can over-tighten it and make it difficult to remove later, or potentially damage the threads.