Introduction
The thrill of the hunt, the quiet anticipation as a gobbler struts into range – it’s an experience etched in the hearts of turkey hunters worldwide. Success, however, isn’t just a matter of luck; it’s about preparation, patience, and the right equipment. One crucial component of any successful turkey hunting setup is the choke, and for those who choose the reliable and affordable Mossberg 535 shotgun, understanding the Mossberg 535 Turkey Choke is paramount. This article aims to be your comprehensive guide, empowering you with the knowledge to choose, test, and utilize the ideal choke for your specific needs, transforming your Mossberg 535 into a deadly turkey-slaying machine.
Understanding the Mossberg 535
The Mossberg 535 is a workhorse of a shotgun, a favorite among hunters of all levels, and especially those seeking an accessible entry point into the sport. Known for its rugged durability, straightforward design, and reasonable price point, the Mossberg 535 offers a compelling value proposition. The 535 is a pump-action shotgun, meaning its manual operation ensures reliability even in challenging conditions, a crucial factor when dealing with the unpredictable behaviors of wild turkeys.
Beyond its affordability and dependability, the Mossberg 535 is also a highly versatile platform. It’s available in multiple gauges, allowing hunters to select the firearm best suited for their experience and preferences. The standard configuration, available in the popular twelve gauge and a more manageable twenty gauge, allows for effective shot placement on a variety of game. The 535 often comes with a pre-drilled receiver, ready to accept a scope or red dot sight, further enhancing its accuracy and effectiveness. Its suitability for turkey hunting is clear: it’s easy to maneuver, relatively lightweight (depending on the barrel length), and the potential for tight, focused patterns makes it a natural choice for the pursuit of elusive gobblers.
But the shotgun itself is only half the battle. The single most significant upgrade you can make to enhance its turkey hunting capabilities is the selection and installation of the appropriate Mossberg 535 Turkey Choke.
The Importance of a Turkey Choke
Why is a specialized choke so crucial for turkey hunting? The answer lies in the fundamental principles of shotgun ballistics. Shotguns, unlike rifles, disperse projectiles – in this case, pellets – over a wider area. The choke is the constriction at the muzzle of the barrel that directly controls this spread, influencing the shot pattern’s density and the effective range of your shotgun.
A turkey choke, designed specifically for turkey hunting, serves a crucial purpose: to concentrate as many pellets as possible into a tight, dense pattern at extended ranges. This ensures a high probability of a clean, ethical kill, which is vital for responsible hunting practices. The smaller the pattern, the higher the concentration of pellets in the vital areas of the turkey, leading to a more effective and humane harvest. Without a turkey choke, your shotgun’s pattern might be too wide, resulting in insufficient pellet impact and a wounded bird, an outcome all hunters strive to avoid.
Turkey chokes are distinct from other choke types, like modified or full chokes, which are often used for other types of hunting, like waterfowl or deer. The turkey choke is designed to deliver the tightest patterns possible. The degree of constriction, or how much the barrel narrows at the muzzle, varies depending on the choke type, with turkey chokes typically offering the greatest amount of constriction. This high level of constriction allows the pellets to stay together for a longer distance, maximizing the effective range for a shot at a wary tom.
Choke Tube Types for Mossberg 535
Let’s dive deeper into the diverse world of choke tubes specifically designed for the Mossberg 535 and how they optimize your shotgun for turkey hunting. You’ll find a range of options, each offering unique characteristics that can cater to specific shot types, ranges, and individual hunter preferences.
One common type is the Extra Full choke, which provides a significant amount of constriction, resulting in very tight patterns. This is often a great starting point for hunters looking to maximize their effective range and pellet density.
Super Full chokes take it a step further, offering even tighter patterns than Extra Full. This is the go-to option for hunters who prioritize extreme range and want to ensure a dense pattern at considerable distances.
Then, there are the chokes labeled XX-Full. These are the most constricted chokes available and deliver extremely tight patterns, ideal for maximum effective range, but they may be less forgiving with different ammunition. It’s important to note, when using highly constricted chokes, you’re sometimes limited by the ammo available and the choke itself.
Choosing the Right Choke
Choosing the correct choke isn’t simply about picking the one with the most constriction. Several critical factors should influence your decision. First, consider the type of ammunition you plan to use. The size and composition of your shot pellets play a crucial role in how the pattern behaves. Lead shot, once the standard, is becoming less common due to environmental concerns. Steel shot, while more environmentally friendly, often performs differently than lead and needs careful consideration when selecting a choke. Tungsten and other heavier-than-lead alloy shot materials are increasingly popular for their density and ability to maintain tight patterns. The shape of the pellets, along with the powder charge, greatly affect the pattern.
Barrel length also affects your choice. Shorter barrels, common on turkey guns for maneuverability in dense cover, typically benefit from slightly less constricted chokes than longer barrels, which are able to fully stabilize the pellet column.
Lastly, hunting conditions are a major influence. If you expect shots at longer ranges or in open fields, a more constricted choke might be necessary. Conversely, in thick woods where shots are often closer, a less constricted choke might provide a more forgiving pattern.
Many respected brands produce quality turkey chokes specifically for the Mossberg 535. Brands like Carlson’s, Trulock, and Indian Creek offer a variety of choke options, allowing you to fine-tune your setup. Researching these brands, comparing their offerings, and reading reviews from fellow hunters can significantly narrow your choices and help you find the choke that best suits your hunting style.
Pattern Testing
How do you choose the right choke? Pattern testing is the key. This hands-on process allows you to determine how your shotgun, choke, and ammunition combination performs, ultimately leading to a more precise and ethical hunting experience.
Pattern testing involves shooting at a large paper target, usually at a distance of 40 yards, although you might experiment with distances between 30 and 50 yards to see what works best with your chosen ammunition. The size of the target needs to be large enough to catch the entire pattern. A common method is to draw a 30-inch circle on the target.
Here are the steps: First, mount your Mossberg 535 securely. Aim at the center of the target and fire a shot. Repeat this process several times to get a representative average. Then, carefully examine your target. Count the number of pellets that have struck within the 30-inch circle and, more importantly, those that have struck within the kill zone – the head and neck area of a turkey.
The density of the pattern, the evenness of the pellet distribution, and the concentration of pellets in the vital zones are all important factors to consider. A good pattern should have a high pellet count and an even distribution, but the key is the number of pellets hitting the target’s head and neck. If the pattern is sparse or uneven, or if the majority of the pellets are outside of the target’s vital areas, you may need to adjust your setup.
You can refine your setup by changing chokes, experimenting with different types or brands of ammunition, or adjusting your shooting distance. Patience is key: it can take several testing rounds to find the combination that yields the best results. The results of pattern testing are crucial and help you make educated decisions about how far you can shoot at game ethically.
Best Practices
After choosing and thoroughly testing your choke, it’s time to put your new setup into practice. Here are some essential best practices for turkey hunting with the Mossberg 535 Turkey Choke:
Always consider your hunting range. Ethical turkey hunting demands that you only take shots within the effective range of your chosen setup. This is determined by your pattern test results. Know your limitations and be willing to pass on shots that are beyond your established range. A good rule of thumb is that you want at least four or five pellets to strike the head and neck for a clean kill.
Shot placement is critical. Aim for the head and neck of the turkey, as these areas offer the best chance for a quick and humane harvest. Familiarize yourself with the anatomy of the turkey and understand where the vital organs are located.
Proper maintenance is essential. Regularly clean your choke tube and barrel to remove any debris or fouling that can affect the pattern. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning and lubrication.
Safety should always be your top priority. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded, be aware of your surroundings, and always practice safe gun handling. Never point your gun at anything you do not intend to shoot.
Pros and Cons
The Mossberg 535 is a powerful and effective tool for turkey hunting, but it’s essential to understand its strengths and limitations. The biggest advantage is the potential for excellent patterns at a great price point, meaning hunters of all experience levels can find success.
However, recoil can be substantial, especially when firing heavy turkey loads. Practice is essential for becoming proficient with your setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, maximizing your success with the Mossberg 535 Turkey Choke requires careful consideration, testing, and practice. By understanding the different choke types, selecting the appropriate ammunition, and meticulously pattern testing your setup, you can transform your reliable Mossberg 535 into a deadly weapon. Pattern testing allows for improved accuracy and confidence in the field, leading to a more ethical and rewarding hunting experience.
This isn’t just about harvesting a bird; it’s about connecting with the natural world, appreciating the challenge of the hunt, and practicing responsible and ethical hunting. So, take the time to research, choose the right choke, and practice with your Mossberg 535. The rewards of a well-executed hunt, the quiet satisfaction of a successful harvest, and the delicious taste of wild turkey on the table are well worth the effort.
Remember to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific choke tube and shotgun. Safe hunting!
