Understanding How Turkey Chokes Work
The Basics of Choke Tubes
The function of a choke tube is simple: it constricts the shot column as it leaves the barrel, influencing how the pellets spread downrange. This constriction, measured in thousandths of an inch, dictates the pattern density – the number of pellets that strike a target within a given area.
Types of Chokes
Different choke types offer varying levels of constriction. A *full choke* provides a tighter pattern than a *modified choke*, and a *modified choke* offers a tighter pattern than an *improved cylinder choke*. For turkey hunting, we generally want a very tight pattern to ensure enough pellets hit the vital area of a turkey at the ranges we typically engage them.
Specialized Turkey Chokes
*Extra full chokes* and *turkey chokes* are specifically designed for this purpose. These chokes offer the tightest constrictions, aiming to deliver a dense pattern, often centered around the head and neck region. The goal is to maximize the number of pellets impacting the target for a clean and ethical kill.
Choke Materials
The material of the choke itself plays a role in both performance and longevity. While most chokes are made from steel, stainless steel is a common upgrade due to its superior resistance to corrosion and potentially more consistent performance.
Ported vs Non-Ported
A more modern consideration involves ported chokes. These chokes have small ports or vents near the muzzle that are designed to reduce recoil and muzzle rise. While the benefits of porting can be noticeable for rapid follow-up shots in other types of shooting, their impact on turkey hunting is often debated. Some hunters swear by them, while others see little difference.
Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Turkey Choke for the Mossberg 835
Shotgun Barrel Characteristics
One of the most important elements is the shotgun’s barrel characteristics. The Mossberg 835 boasts an overbored barrel. This means the internal diameter of the barrel is slightly larger than the standard gauge. This design is intended to reduce recoil and improve shot pattern performance. When choosing a choke, it’s essential to select one that is *specifically designed for overbored barrels*. Using a choke not designed for an overbored barrel could lead to poor patterns or even damage to your shotgun. Be sure to verify choke compatibility with the 835’s overbored design. Furthermore, always make sure the choke is properly threaded to fit your specific Mossberg 835 model.
Shell Selection
Shell selection is crucial. The 835’s ability to chamber 3.5-inch shells gives it a significant advantage in terms of payload. Longer shells generally hold more shot, potentially translating to a denser pattern.
Shot Size and Type
Regarding shot size and type, the most popular choices for turkey hunting are #4, #5, and #6 shot. Each offers a balance of pellet count and penetration. Heavier shot sizes, like #4, tend to retain more energy at longer ranges, while smaller shot sizes, like #6, offer a higher pellet count, potentially increasing the chances of a vital hit.
The type of shot also matters. Lead shot remains a classic choice, offering good performance at a relatively low price point. However, lead shot is restricted in some areas. Copper-plated lead enhances penetration, creating a more effective pattern at longer ranges. Non-toxic alternatives, such as tungsten or bismuth, offer superior density and performance. Tungsten loads are known for their excellent penetration and tight patterns but can be more expensive. Consider your budget and local regulations when selecting your shell.
Hunting Range
The distance at which you hunt is another critical factor. While the 835, when properly configured, is capable of reaching out to impressive distances, shot patterns degrade with range. Understanding your *maximum effective range* is crucial. This range is the distance at which your shotgun consistently delivers a pattern with sufficient pellet density to cleanly harvest a turkey. Always prioritize ethical hunting practices and avoid taking shots beyond your effective range.
Pattern Testing
Pattern testing at multiple distances is indispensable. The only way to know for sure how a particular choke and shell combination performs in *your* 835 is to test it on paper.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Lastly, factor in the reputation of the brand and gather information by reading reviews from other hunters. Reputable manufacturers often have a long history of producing quality choke tubes, and real-world feedback from other 835 owners can provide valuable insight into a choke’s performance.
Top Turkey Choke Recommendations for the Mossberg 835
Choosing a choke tube is often a matter of trial and error, as individual results can vary depending on your specific shotgun and preferred ammunition. These are some of the *best turkey choke for Mossberg 835* options, each offering a slightly different approach to achieving tight patterns:
Patternmaster Anaconda
This choke is a popular choice among turkey hunters, well-known for producing dense patterns at various ranges. It utilizes a unique design that gradually opens the shot pattern, which can contribute to consistent and reliable performance with a wide range of shell types. This makes it particularly effective with the 835.
Carlson’s Long Beard XR Choke Tube
Designed specifically for Federal Premium Long Beard XR ammunition, this choke is a proven performer for hunters using this popular shell. The Long Beard XR ammunition boasts a wad system and shot design geared toward extending the effective range of the 835.
Indian Creek Black Diamond Strike
Highly regarded for its performance with various shot types, this choke is known for producing incredibly tight patterns at longer distances. The Black Diamond Strike consistently receives high praise from turkey hunters.
| Feature | Patternmaster Anaconda | Carlson’s Long Beard XR | Indian Creek Black Diamond Strike |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choke Type | Extra Full | Extra Full | Extra Full |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Key Feature | Gradual Patterning | Designed for Long Beard XR | High Pattern Density |
| Approximate Price | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Best For… | Versatile Performance | Federal Long Beard XR | Maximum Range, Tight Patterns |
Choosing the right choke depends on your personal hunting style and the ammunition you intend to use. The best approach involves thorough research, review reading, and some actual pattern testing to truly ascertain what works best for you.
Patterning Your Shotgun: The Key to Success
The Importance of Patterning
Patterning your shotgun is non-negotiable. It’s the only way to ensure your chosen choke and shell combination deliver the desired performance. This process involves shooting at a target and analyzing the resulting pattern to assess its density and distribution.
Steps for Patterning
Set up a suitable target at a measured distance. The recommended starting distance is often forty yards, but some hunters begin at closer ranges (twenty yards) to get a sense of the initial pattern. The target itself can be a specialized turkey target with vital zone markings, or a large sheet of paper with a clearly defined aiming point.
Using a stable shooting position, such as a bench rest or a supported standing position, carefully aim at the center of the target. Fire a single shot, then carefully examine the pattern. Count the number of pellet strikes within a ten-inch circle or a defined vital area. A good pattern should have a sufficient number of pellet strikes to ensure a high probability of a clean kill.
The distribution of the pellets is just as crucial as the overall pattern density. A good pattern should be relatively even, with no significant gaps or clumps. Look for a pattern that provides a dense concentration of pellets in the target’s head and neck region.
If the pattern is insufficient, try different shells or chokes. Repeat the patterning process to determine the optimal configuration. The entire process should be an iterative one, leading to your understanding of how the *best turkey choke for Mossberg 835* works for you.
Safety, Best Practices, and Responsible Hunting
Always prioritize gun safety. Treat every firearm as if it’s loaded, and never point the muzzle at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Always wear eye and ear protection while shooting, and be mindful of your surroundings.
Familiarize yourself with all local hunting regulations, including legal shooting hours, bag limits, and areas where hunting is permitted. Ethical hunting dictates that you always strive for a clean and humane harvest. Only take shots within your effective range, and avoid taking shots at running or moving turkeys.
Conclusion
Selecting the *best turkey choke for Mossberg 835* is a critical step in preparing for a successful turkey hunt. By understanding the factors that influence pattern performance and carefully considering the options available, you can greatly improve your chances of harvesting a trophy gobbler. Remember to prioritize pattern testing to find the perfect combination for your shotgun and ammunition. With careful planning and proper preparation, you’ll be well-equipped to experience the thrill of a successful turkey hunt. Good luck, and safe hunting!
