How to Choose the Right Turkey Shotgun for Your Next Hunt

When it comes to turkey hunting, having the right shotgun can make all the difference. A well-suited turkey shotgun enhances your accuracy, stealth, and overall hunting experience. From the action type to camouflage patterns and accessory compatibility, every detail matters when you’re outsmarting one of nature’s most elusive birds. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this guide will help you choose the perfect turkey shotgun. We’ll also highlight four outstanding options from Savage: the Renegauge Turkey, 220 Turkey, 301 Turkey XP, and 320 Turkey Thumbhole.

What to Look for in a Turkey Shotgun

When selecting a turkey shotgun, several factors must be considered to ensure you’re equipped for success. Let’s break down the key aspects:

Action Types: Semi-Auto vs. Pump vs. Single-Shot

• Semi-Automatic Shotguns: If speed and ease of follow-up shots are important, a semi-automatic shotgun like the Renegauge Turkey is an excellent choice. Semi-autos absorb recoil better, making them more comfortable to shoot over long periods. They also provide faster follow-up shots, in case you miss or have a glancing hit with your first shot. This can be a significant advantage when patterning your gun or taking multiple shots during a hunt.

• Pump-Action Shotguns: Known for their reliability, pump-action shotguns like the 320 Turkey Thumbhole are simple to operate and built to handle rugged conditions. These shotguns are a favorite among hunters who prioritize durability and dependability.

• Single-Shot Shotguns: A lightweight and minimalist option, single-shot shotguns like the 301 Turkey XP are great for hunters looking to simplify their gear. While you only get one shot, these shotguns are often the most affordable and lightweight option, perfect for beginners or those who want a challenge. Their simple design also makes them rugged and durable options for those who like to hunt hard.

Each action type has its strengths, so the best turkey shotgun for you will depend on your hunting style and personal preference.

Gauge Options: What’s Best for Turkey Hunting?

The most common gauges for turkey shotguns are 12-gauge and 20-gauge, though .410 bore is gaining popularity with advancements in turkey-specific shotshell loads like TSS (Tungsten Super Shot).

• 12-Gauge: The most versatile and powerful option, offering a wide range of loads and superior knockdown power compared to other shotgun gauges. The Renegauge Turkey and 320 Turkey Thumbhole both come in 12-gauge configurations, making them ideal for hunters who want maximum range and performance. The 12 gauge shotgun is an excellent choice for experienced hunters who want the most power they can get out of their shotgun. 

• 20-Gauge: A lighter, more manageable alternative that still packs plenty of power for turkey hunting, especially at closer ranges. The 220 Turkey, available in 20-gauge, is perfect for those who prioritize reduced recoil and ease of handling. The 20 gauge has also become a favorite among public land hunters, and those who like to “run and gun” and hunt on the move constantly. 

• .410 Bore: Compact and lightweight, .410 shotguns like the 301 Turkey XP are an excellent option for youth hunters or those seeking a shotgun with lower recoil. With modern TSS loads, the .410 bore can still deliver effective patterns at distances of 40 yards and beyond. These innovations in ammunition have resulted in a new resurgence of interest in “sub gauges”, or smaller gauge shotguns that have gained popularity among turkey hunters for their lighter weight and less punishing recoil. 

Camo and Concealment

Turkeys have exceptional eyesight, so blending into your surroundings is crucial. Many turkey shotguns, including the Savage models, come with camo finishes that help keep you hidden. Look for patterns like Mossy Oak or Realtree that match the terrain you hunt in most often.

The Renegauge Turkey, for example, features Mossy Oak Bottomland and Obsession camo finishes that are specifically designed for effective concealment in spring turkey hunting environments. A good camo shotgun reduces the chance of being spotted while you’re lining up the perfect shot. If you are hunting from a ground blind, especially a blind with an all-black interior, a black shotgun can also be effective in blending into the background of the blind. 

Key Features to Consider

When shopping for a turkey shotgun, prioritize these features:

• Choke Tube Compatibility: A tight turkey choke is essential for maintaining dense patterns at longer ranges. All Savage turkey shotguns are compatible with screw-in choke systems, giving you the flexibility to customize your spread. Shotguns will vary on which choke system they are compatible with, so make sure you know which pattern of choke tube your shotgun takes before purchasing additional chokes. Check out this blog article to see what choke pattern each Savage shotgun uses. 

• Adjustable Sights: Precise aiming is critical for turkey hunting. The 301 Turkey XP and 320 Turkey Thumbhole come with fiber-optic sights for enhanced visibility over traditional brass beads, which can be difficult to see during harsh glare or early morning darkness.

• Optics-Ready Design: Many hunters prefer using a red dot sight or low-power scope for faster target acquisition and a clearer sight picture. The 220 Turkey is optics-ready with a mounted Picatinny rail on top of the receiver, making it easy to attach your favorite sight for pinpoint accuracy. 

• Ergonomics: Look for shotguns with comfortable grips and well-placed controls, like the thumbhole stock on the 320 Turkey Thumbhole. A good fit will make long hunts more enjoyable, especially whenever you need to have your shotgun up and at the ready waiting for a strutting longbeard to come into range. 

Compatibility with Accessories

A turkey shotgun should be versatile enough to accommodate the accessories you need for a successful hunt. Many modern shotguns are drilled and tapped for optics, sling attachments, and other upgrades.

• Red Dots: Red dot sights have become increasingly popular for turkey hunting because they allow for quick target acquisition and accurate shots on the vital head and neck area of a turkey. The 220 Turkey and Renegauge Turkey are both compatible with optics, giving you an edge in the field over shotguns using brass or fiber-optic beads.

• Slings: A good sling makes it easier to carry your shotgun during long treks through the woods. Many shotgun-specific slings will also come with shotshell loops on the sling to allow you to carry extra ammunition in case it is needed. 

• Aftermarket Chokes: Upgrading to a high-quality turkey choke can dramatically improve your patterns and range. Several brands make high-quality, effective jokes, including Carlson’s, JEBS, Indian Creek, Patternmaster, and TruLock. Aftermarket choke tubes will commonly be listed by constriction, rather than “full” or “extra full”. If you choose to use an aftermarket tube, make a note about which constriction is most effective. Many aftermarket chokes are also optimized for use with certain types of ammunition, such as TSS. 

Recommended Savage Turkey Shotguns

Now that we’ve covered what to look for in a turkey shotgun, let’s explore four top-notch options from Savage:

1. Renegauge Turkey

• Action: Semi-Auto

• Gauge: 12

• Chamber: 3”

• Highlights: The Renegauge Turkey is designed for serious hunters, featuring Savage’s Dual Regulating Inline Valve (D.R.I.V.) gas system for reduced recoil and consistent cycling. Its camo finish ensures you stay hidden, while the adjustable stock and optics-ready rail make it highly customizable. Oversized controls are also easy to manipulate, which is especially useful during chilly early-season mornings. 

2. 220 Turkey

• Action: Bolt

• Gauge: 20

• Chamber: 3”

• Highlights: This bolt-action shotgun is perfect for hunters who want precision. The 220 Turkey is chambered for 20-gauge shells and comes optics-ready, making it an excellent choice for pairing with a red dot sight. It’s fitted with an AccuFit stock and the AccuTrigger, allowing you to make precise shots with rifle-like accuracy to take down your target gobbler. 

3. 301 Turkey XP

• Action: Single-Shot

• Gauge: .410 Bore

• Chamber: 3”

• Highlights: Lightweight and simple, the 301 Turkey XP is a fantastic option for youth hunters or anyone looking for a low-recoil shotgun. It comes with a factory-installed red dot, so you’re ready to hunt right out of the box. Pair it with TSS loads for an effective setup that can shoot just as far as larger gauge shotguns. 

4. 320 Turkey Thumbhole

• Action: Pump

• Gauge: 12

• Chamber: 3”

• Highlights: Built for durability, the 320 Turkey Thumbhole features a synthetic stock with a thumbhole design for added stability. Its fiber-optic sights make it a reliable, no-nonsense choice for turkey hunting.

Choosing the right turkey shotgun comes down to understanding your preferences and hunting style. Whether you need the speed of a semi-auto, the reliability of a pump-action, or the simplicity of a single-shot, Savage offers a turkey shotgun to fit your needs. From the advanced features of the Renegauge Turkey to the compact 301 Turkey XP, each model is purpose-built to help you succeed in the field.

When it’s time to gear up for turkey season, remember to prioritize factors like action type, gauge, camo, and accessory compatibility. With the right shotgun in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to outwit even the wariest gobbler.