Essential Turkey Hunting Gear Guide

Turkey hunting is an exhilarating and challenging pursuit that requires a combination of skill, patience, and the right gear. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a novice gearing up for your first turkey season, having the right equipment can make all the difference. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the essential turkey hunting gear, exploring the key features to consider for each type of equipment.

Shotgun: The Heart of Your Setup

A reliable shotgun is the backbone of any turkey hunting gear collection. When choosing a shotgun for turkey hunting, consider the following features:

• Gauge: While 12-gauge shotguns are popular, 20-gauge and sub-gauge options are gaining traction for their reduced recoil and maneuverability.
• Barrel Length: Opt for a barrel length between 24 and 26 inches for improved accuracy and ease of handling in the dense woods.
• Choke Tubes: A quality turkey choke to tighten your shot pattern at longer ranges will increase your chances of a successful and ethical shot.
• Optic-Ready: Hunting turkeys with a red dot optic has become increasingly popular for its advantages in quick target acquisition, improved accuracy, and versatility in various lighting conditions. Look for a shotgun that is drilled and tapped or comes with a mounting rail already installed if you want to use a red dot.

Savage’s Turkey Shotgun Recommendations

No matter how you like to get in on turkey action, we have you covered with a variety of turkey shotguns to bag a tom. 

• Renegauge: A 12-gauge semi-auto with mild recoil thanks to its DRIV gas system, Renegauge Turkey comes in a 24” barrel with Bottomland or Obsession camo patterns. Its adjustable stock ensures a perfect fit for any shooter. Renegauge is now drilled and tapped to make mounting an optic easy!
  
• 220 Turkey: Originally only offered through our Special Order Shop, the 220 Turkey is now available to all! Built on our famous Model 110 rifles, the 220 Turkey is a bolt action 20 gauge smooth bore shotgun (212 Turkey in 12 gauge) with AccuTrigger, AccuStock and AccuFit.
  
• 301 Turkey: This single-shot break action shotgun is simple and incredibly reliable. It’s available in 12 and gauges, but the popularity of TSS loads has made 410 bore an instant in the 301 Turkey with powerful patterns and minimal recoil. The 301 Turkey is offered in several configurations including Bottomland or Obsession camo stocks, thumbhole stocks, and a packaged red dot optic.  
  

Ammunition: Precision Matters

Selecting the right ammunition is crucial for a successful turkey hunt. Look for the following features in your turkey load:

• Shot Size: Choose large shot sizes such as #4, #5, or #6 to ensure ample energy for a clean kill. However, if you're shooting 410 bore, many hunter opt for smaller shot sizes like #7 and #9 to increase the number of pellets in the shell, especially in TSS loads.
• Material: Lead, copper-plated lead, or tungsten-based shot materials are popular choices, offering enhanced penetration and pattern density.

Decoys: Bringing Turkeys into Range

Decoys are essential turkey hunting gear for luring in those wary toms. Consider the following when selecting decoys:

• Realism: Opt for realistic decoys that mimic the appearance of a turkey, paying attention to details like feather patterns and coloring.
• Movement: Some decoys come with movable parts or mechanisms that simulate natural turkey movements, adding authenticity to your setup.
• Portability: Choose collapsible or inflatable decoys for easy transport and setup in the field.

Calls: Mastering the Art of Turkey Talk

Turkey calls are indispensable pieces of turkey hunting gear for communicating with these elusive birds. Here's what to look for in turkey calls:

• Versatility: Invest in a variety of calls, including box calls, slate calls, and mouth calls, to cover a range of turkey sounds.
• User-Friendly Design: Look for calls that are easy to use, especially if you're a beginner. Practice is key, but starting with user-friendly calls can expedite the learning process.

For more information on how to turkey call, check out Mastering Turkey Calls: Tips and Techniques for Success 

Clothing and Camouflage: Become One with Your Surroundings

Turkeys have keen eyesight, so staying concealed is paramount in turkey hunting. When choosing clothing and camouflage, keep the following in mind:

• Pattern and Color: Opt for camouflage patterns that match the terrain in which you'll be hunting. Earth tones and foliage-inspired designs work well in woodland environments.
• Comfort and Mobility: Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that allows easy movement. Consider weather-appropriate options, such as moisture-wicking layers for hot weather or insulated gear for colder conditions.

Expert Tip: Treat your hunting clothes with permethrin to repel ticks. Check out this Hunter’s Guide on How to Avoid Ticks 

Turkey Vest: Keeping Essentials Close at Hand

A well-designed turkey vest helps you stay organized and keeps your turkey hunting gear easily accessible. Look for the following features:

• Pockets and Compartments: Choose a vest with strategically placed pockets for calls, ammunition, snacks, and other essentials.
• Comfortable Fit: Ensure the vest is adjustable and provides a comfortable fit, especially if you'll be wearing it for extended periods.

Binoculars: Enhancing Your Field of Vision

Binoculars are invaluable for scouting and identifying distant turkeys. Consider the following features:

• Magnification and Objective Lens Size: Opt for a balance between magnification and a compact design. 8x42 or 10x42 binoculars are popular choices for turkey hunters.
• Durability: Choose binoculars with rugged, waterproof, and fog-proof construction to withstand the elements.

For more on turkey scouting, check out Scouting for Turkeys: How to Find the Perfect Turkey Spot

Blinds: Concealing Your Presence

A well-placed hunting blind can provide crucial concealment. When selecting a blind, consider:

• Portability: Choose a lightweight and easily transportable blind if you plan on moving frequently.
• 360-Degree Visibility: Opt for blinds with windows on all sides for a complete view of your surroundings.
• Camouflage: Ensure the blind's camouflage pattern blends seamlessly with the environment.

Last, but not least, a waterproof butt pad is essential turkey hunting gear.

“Just trust me.” – Rob Gates, Savage’s Vice President of Sales

Equipping yourself with the right turkey hunting gear is essential for a successful and enjoyable turkey hunting experience. From shotguns and ammunition to calls and camouflage, each piece of gear plays a crucial role in your quest for that elusive gobbler. By carefully considering the features outlined in this guide, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of turkey hunting and increase your chances of a rewarding and memorable hunt.