’Heavier-than-lead’ tungsten has had a big impact on hunting turkey with shotguns. (Shutterstock image)
August 26, 2019
By Brian Lovett
For years, turkey geeks have obsessed about patterns, pellet counts and downrange energy.
That all went into overdrive with the mainstream introduction of high-performing tungsten-based heavier-than-lead shot options.
Suddenly, folks consider .410s and 28 gauges to be legitimate turkey killers — with Nos. 7, 8 or 9 shot. But this is no fad. Modern heavier-than-lead ammo performs at the range and in the woods.
Check out these top choices:
BROWNING TSS Tungsten Turkey Featuring TSS, the densest shot on the market, these loads deliver twice as many pellets on target and 50-percent deeper penetration (in a 20-inch circle at 60 yards vs #5 lead loads).Available in 12- and 20-gauge loads of Nos. 7 and 9 shot, plus .410 bore in No. 9 shot. $28–$48
FEDERAL Heavyweight TSS Federal has five new 12- and 20-gauge turkey offerings, including blended loads that combine Nos. 7 and 9 or 8 and 10 TSS shot. Some payloads top 1,000 pellets, and TSS is 56 percent denser than lead, resulting in deadly patterns and maximum energy at extreme ranges. $40–$64
HEVI-SHOT Hevi-X Strut This tungsten-based turkey load has No. 6 tungsten pellets layered over heavier-than-steel Hevi-X No. 5 tungsten pellets, plus a higher launch speed. That produces 50 percent more energy than conventional No. 6 lead and puts more lethal pellets on target. $17
APEX AMMUNITION TSS Turkey Available in various gauges and shot sizes, this ammo uses 18g/cc tungsten super shot, providing impressive downrange energy and thick, consistent patterns. $35–$63
