Best 12 GA 2-3/4” Turkey loads?

[blue_ridge]

I'm planning to take an old side by side for spring season this year. I'm looking for what has worked best for you in 2-3/4" loads, either factory or handloads.

 

[jeremy.b]

Look into the Winchester Rooster XR, probably in #6s. They use the same shot lock technology that the Longbeard XR turkey loads use, but in a 2-3/4" load.

 

[Bucklowery]

Go tss if you can get them loaded for the chamber of gun. 9's or 7's will be fine

Thanks

Buck

 

[FlGunner]

If the gun can handle it……TSS. Nothing else compares and it's not even close. I would say the Winchester Long Beard XR as my second choice. But again I've only seen a few offerings in factory TSS in 2 3/4…Federal Heavyweight. Not sure if it's currently available. Might look up APEX Ammunition and Salt Creek Ammo and see what they offer in 2 3/4".

 

[birddog 68]

I personally wouldn't risk shooting TSS from a old side by side. I agree with others that Winchester long beard or rooster is the next best thing to TSS.

 

[243winxb]

what has worked best for you

Hard magnum shot or plated lead shot loaded with a plastic buffer. #5 shot.
Plastic Buffer



Factory Buffered Loads
• FLITECONTROL FLEX wad ensures dense patterns through both standard and ported turkey chokes
• Copper-plated lead shot
• Buffering prevents pellet deformation for more consistent patterns

 

[243winxb]

old side by side

*Old guns should not use super hard shot, may damage the old barrels.*

Some loads (#2 plated) may put all pellets in a 15" circle @ 40 yards.
To easy to miss with a double barrel, if patterns are to tight.

My Mossberg 500 12 ga 20" turkey gun has a drilled and tapped receiver for scope mounting. Screw in chokes.
I think my model has been discontinued?

Newer M500

https://www.mossberg.com/firearms/usage/hunting-sporting/turkey-shotguns.html

I can buy a lot of turkey for $800 to $900 .

 

[Sealesniper]

If it can handle it, like said above TSS, but can also get by with Magnum Blend. It is great.