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Best Shells For Turkey Hunting (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a successful turkey hunting experience, don't overlook the importance of shells. Choosing the right shells for your firearm is essential to ensure a clean and ethical kill. But with so many options available on the market, how do you know which ones to choose?

Before buying shells for turkey hunting, consider the gauge of your shotgun, the length of the shell, the shot size, and the type of wad. It's important to choose shells that are compatible with your specific firearm and that can deliver the power and accuracy you need for a successful hunt.

Are you tired of coming home empty-handed after a day of turkey hunting? Are you looking for a way to increase your chances of success? Choosing the right shells can make all the difference. Do you know what factors to consider before making your purchase? Are you confident in your knowledge of gauges, shot sizes, and wad types? Keep reading to learn more about the importance of choosing the right shells for turkey hunting.

10 Best Shells For Turkey Hunting

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for holding and carrying 12-gauge shotgun shells in a tactical and compatible manner.
2
Ideal for cold-weather bird and deer hunting, with a cotton shell and Realtree Edge Camo pattern.
3
The product is ideal for carrying a turkey shotgun while hunting in camouflage.
4
Ideal for turkey hunting with its lightweight design, adjustable features, and game pouch to hold supplies during the hunt.
5
The product is ideal for turkey hunting and features a convertible design and camo pattern.
6
Ideal for keeping items cold during outdoor activities or events such as camping, tailgating, and picnics.
7
The product is ideal for hunters who want a comfortable vest with a game pouch, kickstand, and camo design.
8
Ideal for keeping ice cold for up to 5 days, perfect for camping, BBQs, tailgating, and outdoor activities.
9
Ideal for fishing, hunting and outdoor activities to store gear, tackle, beverages and food. Durable and impact-resistant design.
10
The product is ideal for hunting turkeys while on the move, providing convenience and functionality with its lightweight frame.
The product is ideal for holding and carrying 12-gauge shotgun shells in a tactical and compatible manner.
Ideal for cold-weather bird and deer hunting, with a cotton shell and Realtree Edge Camo pattern.
The product is ideal for carrying a turkey shotgun while hunting in camouflage.
Ideal for turkey hunting with its lightweight design, adjustable features, and game pouch to hold supplies during the hunt.
The product is ideal for turkey hunting and features a convertible design and camo pattern.
Ideal for keeping items cold during outdoor activities or events such as camping, tailgating, and picnics.
The product is ideal for hunters who want a comfortable vest with a game pouch, kickstand, and camo design.
Ideal for keeping ice cold for up to 5 days, perfect for camping, BBQs, tailgating, and outdoor activities.
Ideal for fishing, hunting and outdoor activities to store gear, tackle, beverages and food. Durable and impact-resistant design.
The product is ideal for hunting turkeys while on the move, providing convenience and functionality with its lightweight frame.

1. Trinity Aluminum 5-Round Shotgun Shell Holder

The Universal 12GA Shotgun Shell Holder is a must-have accessory for anyone who wants fast and easy access to their shotgun shells. It is made of durable aluminum and comes with a black finish, which adds to the sleek look of your shotgun. The holder attaches to any picatinny rail on your shotgun, so you can have it installed in no time. It is designed to securely hold 5 shotgun shells, whether they are 2 3/4 or 3 inches in size. You can rest assured that the shells will remain in place even when you are on the go, or when you are firing your 12ga shotgun.

The Universal 12GA Shotgun Shell Holder is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a great accessory for hunters, law enforcement professionals, and shooting enthusiasts. It is also designed to withstand the recoil of your shotgun, so you don't have to worry about it falling off or getting damaged.

The holder is easy to install and can be attached to any picatinny rail with ease. It is also easy to remove, so you can switch it to any shotgun you want. The black finish adds to its sleek look, and it is made of high-quality materials that are built to last.

Pros

  • Durable aluminum construction
  • Black finish for a sleek look
  • Easy to attach to any picatinny rail
  • Holds 5 shotgun shells securely
  • Can hold both 2 3/4 and 3 inch shells
  • Easy to install and remove

Cons

  • – May not fit all shotgun models

2. Hot Shot Men's Realtree Edge Hunting Jacket

The Ultimate Quiet Movement hunting jacket is designed to provide complete stealth while hunting outdoors in silent woods. This jacket is perfect for hunting pheasant, geese, turkey, rabbit, squirrel, raccoon, fox or deer. The unique design of the jacket allows for quiet movement during use, ensuring that you remain undetected by your prey.

The jacket is made of 100% cotton twill shell insulated with a polyester fill and quilted polyester lining. This makes it a perfect jacket for cold hunting weather. The insulation is so effective that additional layers are not necessary with this jacket.

The Realtree Edge Camouflage design of the jacket blends seamlessly into your hunting surroundings. The camo pattern brings you realistic elements to match your hunting surroundings and erase your form to deer, ducks, and turkey while keeping you visible in the human eye and staying safe. The jacket is available in Medium, Large, X-Large and XX-Large.

The jacket features an attached hood with a drawcord to make it snug and two handwarmer pockets on the front around the waist. The elastic waist of the jacket keeps it snug while also keeping the elements out. The front of the jacket is a full zip up with YKK zippers, ensuring durability.

Pros

  • The jacket is perfect for cold hunting weather
  • The Realtree Edge Camouflage design blends seamlessly into your hunting surroundings
  • The jacket is available in Medium, Large, X-Large and XX-Large
  • The attached hood with a drawcord and elastic waist of the jacket keep it snug and the elements out
  • The full zip up with YKK zippers ensures durability

3. Allen Company Hypa-Lite Shocker Turkey Shotgun Sling, Mossy Oak Obsession, One Size (8686)

The Mossy-Oak Obsession Turkey Call Pouch is an essential accessory for every turkey hunter. This pouch is designed to hold up to three mouth calls and features two handy shell loops that can easily store extra shotgun shells. The ultra-durable and lightweight Hypalon construction ensures that this pouch will last for many hunting seasons to come, without adding any unnecessary weight to your gear.

The non-slip backing with molded low-density foam provides a secure and comfortable fit against your body, allowing you to move around freely without worrying about the pouch slipping or sliding. Additionally, this pouch includes swivels that have been tested to over 300 pounds, ensuring that your calls and shells are always within reach.

Overall, the Mossy-Oak Obsession Turkey Call Pouch is a must-have for any turkey hunter who wants to stay organized, comfortable, and prepared in the field.

Pros

  • Can hold up to three mouth calls and two shotgun shells
  • Ultra-durable and lightweight Hypalon construction
  • Non-slip backing with molded low-density foam
  • Swivels tested to over 300 pounds

4. Game-Ready Turkey Vest: The Ultimate Hunting Gear!

The UIIHUNT Turkey vest is the ultimate accessory for any hunting adventure. With a large capacity and multi compartments, you can easily organize your hunting gear, apparel, and accessories. The vest features one large pouch and multiple accessory pockets, providing easy access to all of your equipment. The vest is designed for comfort, with a 3-inch cushioned seat and breathable mesh panels that help you stay as silent as possible during your hunts. The vest is adjustable for a custom fit, with an 8-point adjustment system that accommodates men, women, and all body types, sizes, and ages. On the interior of the vest, you will find silhouettes of turkeys, allowing you to keep track of your harvests over the years. The vest is also lightweight, weighing just over 1.5 pounds, and made of durable polyester that will withstand the toughest hunting environments. With a premium soundless fabric and reinforced buckle and webbing, the UIIHUNT Turkey vest is the perfect accessory for any turkey hunting enthusiast. And if for any reason you are unsatisfied with your purchase, UIIHUNT offers a 100% money-back guarantee, ensuring your satisfaction and happiness with your vest.

The UIIHUNT Turkey vest is designed for comfort and versatility, with a 3-inch cushioned seat and adjustable 8-point system that accommodates all body types, sizes, and ages. The vest is also lightweight, weighing just over 1.5 pounds, and made of durable polyester that will withstand even the toughest hunting environments. And with a large capacity and multiple compartments, the vest provides easy access to all of your hunting gear, apparel, and accessories.

The UIIHUNT Turkey vest is the ultimate accessory for any turkey hunting enthusiast. With a large capacity and multiple compartments, the vest provides ample storage for all of your hunting gear, apparel, and accessories. The vest is also designed for comfort, with a 3-inch cushioned seat and breathable mesh panels that help you stay as silent as possible during your hunts. And with an adjustable 8-point system, the vest accommodates all body types, sizes, and ages. The vest is also lightweight, weighing just over 1.5 pounds, and made of durable polyester that will withstand even the toughest hunting environments. And if for any reason you are unsatisfied with your purchase, UIIHUNT offers a 100% money-back guarantee, ensuring your satisfaction and happiness with your vest.

Pros

  • Large capacity and multiple compartments for easy organization of hunting gear, apparel, and accessories
  • Comfortable and versatile with a 3-inch cushioned seat and breathable mesh panels
  • Adjustable 8-point system accommodates all body types, sizes, and ages
  • Lightweight and durable polyester material withstands even the toughest hunting environments
  • Premium soundless fabric helps you remain undetected while hunting
  • Silhouettes of turkeys on the interior of the vest allow you to keep track of your harvests over the years
  • 100% money-back guarantee ensures your satisfaction and happiness with your vest

5. Nomad Camo Turkey Vest: Pursue Your Target!

Nomad is a company that aims to inspire and protect the traditions of hunting by building innovative and authentic hunting apparel. Their Pursuit Convertible Turkey Vest is a great example of their commitment to this mission. This vest is designed for turkey hunters who are passionate about their sport and need a vest that is comfortable, mobile, and organized. It can be worn as a traditional vest or converted into a fanny pack, providing flexibility in the field.

One of the notable features of this vest is the external pockets of various depths and widths. These pockets are designed for quick and easy access and come with buckles, hooks, neoprene protection, or magnetic closures that are specific to box calls, mouth calls, Thermacell, game, water bottles, and gun shells. This ensures that hunters can easily access their gear without any hassle.

In addition to the pockets, the vest also includes a double-padded high-density foam seat with magnetic closure. This provides added comfort for the hunter during long hours of sitting and waiting. The vest also includes a storable game bag, making it easy to transport game after a successful hunt.

Overall, the Nomad Pursuit Convertible Turkey Vest is a functional and versatile option for turkey hunters. Its various pockets and double-padded seat provide comfort and organization, while the option to convert it into a fanny pack adds flexibility in the field.

Pros

  • External pockets of various depths and widths provide easy access to gear
  • Double-padded high-density foam seat with magnetic closure adds comfort during long hours of sitting
  • Convertible design allows for flexibility in the field

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for hunters who require a larger capacity vest

6. Igloo Gray Polar 120qt Cooler

Protect your food and drinks from the sun with the UV inhibitors in this cooler's lid. The lid guard prevents sun damage and keeps your items cool. The reinforced swing-up handles make it easy to carry, and the tie-down loop feature keeps it secure during transportation. The threaded drain plug allows for easy cleaning and hose hook up. The stain- and odor-resistant liner ensures that your cooler stays fresh and clean. Additionally, the dual snap-fit latches securely close the lid, keeping your items safe and cool.

Pros

  • UV inhibitors in the lid guard against sun damage
  • Stain- and odor-resistant liner keeps the cooler fresh and clean
  • Threaded drain plug allows for easy cleaning and hose hook up
  • Reinforced swing-up handles make it easy to carry
  • Tie-down loop feature keeps the cooler secure during transportation
  • Dual snap-fit latches securely close the lid, keeping items safe and cool

7. Tidewe Strut Camo Turkey Vest With Seat

The TIDEWE Turkey Vest is the perfect companion for your hunting journey. With its large capacity and multi-compartment design, it enables you to organize all your hunting gear, apparel, calls, rangefinder, and other accessories. The vest dimensions of 21.7” x 16.7” and an adjustable system guarantee a custom fit for men and women of any body type, size or age.

The TIDEWE Turkey Vest is designed with your comfort in mind. It comes equipped with a removable and adjustable frame paired with a 3-inch cushioned seat that allows you to sit comfortably anywhere in the woods or fields. The padded back with a breathable mesh and ergonomic design offers a perfect hunting experience.

The TIDEWE Turkey Vest is made of high-performance fabric that delivers incredible durability. The reinforced buckle and webbing keep you focused on your hunting trip, while the wear-resistance and moisture rubber at the bottom of the cushion are suitable for many different types of ground. The adjustable legs and large swiveled feet provide stability and protect you from sinking into the ground.

TIDEWE Turkey Vest is user-friendly with its unique design features. It features the popular Truetimber pattern to help you stay completely hidden in the weeds. The framed turkey vest is compatible with 2-liter hydration systems, keeping you hydrated for those long walks in the woods. The premium soundless fabric will assist you in remaining undetected while hunting. The unique non-slip clip on shoulder straps prevent your shotgun strap from slipping off.

Pros

  • Large capacity and multi-compartment design to organize all your hunting gear
  • Comfortable and ergonomic design with a removable and adjustable frame paired with a 3-inch cushioned seat
  • Customized size with an adjustable system for a custom fit for men or women
  • High-performance fabric that delivers incredible durability
  • User-friendly design with unique features such as the Truetimber pattern, compatibility with 2-liter hydration systems, premium soundless fabric, and non-slip clip on shoulder straps

8. Xtreme 70qt Cooler – Keep Ice 5 Days

The Xtreme Technology cooler is perfect for keeping your drinks and food items cold for up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F. With its insulated lid and extra wall insulation, you can rest assured that your items will stay fresh and cool for an extended period of time. This cooler has a high capacity and can hold up to 100 cans, making it ideal for large gatherings or camping trips.

In addition, the HAVE-A-SEAT lid can be used as a seat and can support up to 250 lb. The cup holders molded into the lid keep your drinks close and prevent spilling. The comfort-grip handles have a no-crush design with a positive stop for pinch-free carrying, ensuring that you can easily transport the cooler without any discomfort.

Cleaning the cooler is a breeze thanks to its smoother surface that wipes clean easily. The cooler also features a leak-resistant channel drain for easy draining without tilting. Overall, the Xtreme Technology cooler is a great investment for anyone in need of a durable and reliable cooler that will keep their items cold for an extended period of time.

Pros

  • Insulated lid and extra wall insulation keep ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F
  • High capacity: holds up to 100 cans
  • HAVE-A-SEAT lid supports up to 250 lb
  • Cup holders molded into the lid to keep drinks close and prevent spilling
  • Comfort-grip handles with no-crush design and positive stop for pinch-free carrying
  • Leak-resistant channel drain for easy draining without tilting

9. Yeti Loadout 5-Gallon Bucket, Impact Resistant Fishing/utility Bucket, Charcoal

Introducing the YETI LoadOut bucket, the ultimate tool for anyone who needs to lug, load, haul or bale. This ultra-durable bucket is built to withstand even the toughest jobs, making it the unsung hero of hard work. The bucket features a BEARFOOT non-slip ring that prevents slipping, sliding and marking. It is also food safe, ensuring that it can be used to carry food products without any concerns. The SURESTRONG build of the bucket makes it high-impact-resistant and virtually indestructible, ensuring that it lasts for years to come. The bucket also features the HEFTYHAULER handle, which is designed for easy hauling and comfortable carrying, making it perfect for any job.

The YETI LoadOut bucket is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable and durable tool for carrying, hauling and baling. Its non-slip ring and food-safe construction make it ideal for carrying food products or other delicate items, while its high-impact-resistant build ensures that it can withstand even the toughest jobs. The HEFTYHAULER handle makes it easy to carry, while the sturdy construction ensures that it lasts for years to come. Whether you're hauling heavy loads or just need a reliable tool for everyday use, the YETI LoadOut bucket is the perfect choice.

Designed for the toughest jobs, the YETI LoadOut bucket is the ultimate tool for anyone who needs to move heavy loads. Its BEARFOOT non-slip ring ensures that it stays in place, while its food-safe construction makes it ideal for carrying food products or other delicate items. The SURESTRONG build of the bucket ensures that it can withstand even the toughest jobs, while the HEFTYHAULER handle makes it easy to carry. Whether you're hauling hay, loading tools or just need a reliable tool for everyday use, the YETI LoadOut bucket is the perfect choice.

Pros

  • Non-slip ring prevents slipping and sliding
  • Food safe construction
  • High-impact-resistant build ensures durability
  • HEFTYHAULER handle makes it easy to carry

10. Knight & Hale Kht0065 Run N' Gun 200-Turkey Vest Frame, Realtree Edge Frame

The turkey vest is perfect for anyone, regardless of their age, body type, or size, thanks to its 10-point adjustment system that allows for a custom fit. It fits snugly around the midsection, eliminating bagginess and looseness that can cause it to get caught on limbs. This vest is the lightest one available on the market, weighing just over 1.5 pounds, making it easy to carry without weighing you down. The cinching seat system holds the removable six-layer cushion against your butt, allowing for hands-free sitting, or it can be cinched out of the way for trekking. With this turkey vest, you can carry everything you need without any added weight or bulkiness.

This vest is perfect for anyone who loves to hunt, whether male, female, or child. The 10-point adjustment system ensures that it fits perfectly, regardless of your body type or size. It fits snugly around the midsection, which eliminates the bagginess and looseness that can cause it to get caught on limbs. It is also the lightest turkey vest on the market, weighing just over 1.5 pounds. The cinching seat system holds the removable six-layer cushion against your butt, allowing for hands-free sitting or cinching out of the way for trekking. With this turkey vest, you can carry everything you need without any added weight or bulkiness.

This turkey vest is perfect for hunters of any age, gender, or size, thanks to its 10-point adjustment system that provides a custom fit. It fits snugly around the midsection, which eliminates bagginess and looseness that can cause it to get caught on limbs. The vest is also the lightest turkey vest on the market, weighing just over 1.5 pounds. The cinching seat system holds the removable six-layer cushion against your butt, allowing for hands-free sitting or cinching out of the way for trekking. With this turkey vest, you can carry everything you need without any added weight or bulkiness.

Pros

  • 10-point adjustment system provides a custom fit for any body type, size, or age
  • Fits snugly around the midsection, eliminating bagginess and looseness
  • Lightest turkey vest on the market, weighing just over 1.5 pounds
  • Cinching seat system holds the removable six-layer cushion against your butt, allowing for hands-free sitting
  • Can be cinched out of the way for trekking

Best Shells For Turkey Hunting FAQs

Are copper-plated shells better for turkey hunting?

Copper-plated shells are a popular choice among turkey hunters due to their increased penetration and improved terminal performance. The copper plating allows for better patterning and deeper penetration, which is crucial when hunting turkeys, as they have tough feathers that can sometimes deflect shots.

However, it's important to note that copper-plated shells aren't necessarily better for all types of turkey hunting. For example, if you're hunting in a wooded area with a lot of brush, you may want to use a shell with a smaller shot size and less penetration to avoid damaging the surrounding vegetation.

Ultimately, the best type of shell for turkey hunting depends on a variety of factors, including the terrain you'll be hunting in, the distance between you and the turkey, and your personal preference. It's always a good idea to experiment with different types of shells to find the one that works best for you and your hunting style.

Can a specific shell brand or load improve my chances of a successful turkey hunt?

Yes, the specific shell brand or load used during a turkey hunt can improve your chances of success. A turkey hunter must take into consideration the range, choke, and shot size before selecting a shell brand or load. The effectiveness of a shell brand or load depends on the individual hunter's shooting ability and the turkey's behavior. For instance, a hunter may opt for a heavier shot size to increase the chances of a clean kill with a single shot. Similarly, a hunter may choose a brand that produces less recoil to ensure a more stable shot. The type of load may also depend on the hunting terrain, weather conditions, and the distance between the hunter and the turkey. In conclusion, selecting the right shell brand and load is crucial for a successful turkey hunt. It is recommended to try out different brands and loads before the hunting season to determine the best fit.

How many pellets should a turkey hunting shell contain?

A turkey hunting shell is a type of shotgun shell that is specifically designed for hunting turkey. It is important to choose the right size and number of pellets in the shell to ensure an effective and humane kill. The number of pellets in a turkey hunting shell can vary depending on the size and type of the shell. Generally, a turkey hunting shell should contain around 4-8 pellets. The size of the pellets should also be considered, with most hunters opting for #4, #5, or #6 sized pellets. It is important to note that using too many pellets can lead to excessive damage to the meat and using too few pellets can cause the turkey to suffer. It is always best to consult with an experienced hunter or professional to ensure that you are choosing the right shell and pellet size for your specific hunting needs.

What is the recommended shot size for turkey hunting?

The recommended shot size for turkey hunting varies based on several factors such as the distance between the hunter and the turkey, the gauge of the shotgun, and the type of hunting load used. However, the most commonly used shot sizes for turkey hunting are #4, #5, and #6.

It is important to select the right shot size to ensure a clean and humane kill, as well as to avoid injuring the bird. Using shot that is too small may not provide enough stopping power, while shot that is too large may cause excessive damage to the turkey's meat.

It is also recommended to use a shotgun with a choke that is specifically designed for turkey hunting, as it will increase the accuracy and range of the shot. Additionally, hunters should practice their shooting skills and become familiar with their equipment before heading out into the field.

Overall, choosing the right shot size is an important consideration for any turkey hunter, and should be based on a combination of factors including distance, shotgun gauge, and hunting load.

What type of shell is best for turkey hunting?

When it comes to turkey hunting, choosing the right shotgun shell can make a big difference in your success. The best type of shell for turkey hunting is generally a 12-gauge shell with a 3-inch chamber and a high-density shot. This type of shell packs a powerful punch, delivering a dense pattern of shot that can take down even the most elusive turkeys.

There are a few different types of shot that are commonly used for turkey hunting, including lead shot, copper-plated shot, and tungsten shot. Each type of shot has its own pros and cons, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your hunting style and preferences.

Overall, the most important factor in choosing a turkey hunting shell is to find one that delivers consistent and reliable performance. Look for a shell that has been specifically designed for turkey hunting, and be sure to practice your shooting skills before heading out into the field. With the right shell and plenty of practice, you'll be well on your way to a successful turkey hunt.

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