- Joined
- Mar 26, 2016
- Messages
- 9
I live in one of the states that allows rifles for spring and fall turkey seasons. For the past three spring seasons I have used low-power Trail Boss handloads in my 30-06, 24" barrel, Rem 721. My bullet of choice is the Hornady 165gn. BTSP interlock. I've never chronographed my loads, but I know they are between 1100 and 1400 fps. Accuracy is quite good. I've shot many 3 shot groups at 50yd under 3/4". This load works quite well and destroys little meat. However, I will switch to a Ruger mini-14 223 with either Trail Boss or Blue Dot handloads for next season. This will lower my cost per shot and further reduce meat damage. I always aim for the forward-chest area/base of the neck when taking down a tom. My birds have all been shot under 45 yards.
Some hunters would claim someone who hunts turkeys with a rifle is "un-ethical" or "un-sporting". Well, I believe that rifles(if chosen and loaded correctly) are the best tools for harvesting turkeys in many situations. They kick less, make less noise, and are often cheaper to shoot than a shotgun. I still rely heavily on my calling skills.
I would like to hear from others who use rifles for turkey hunting. Especially in regards to their caliber choice.
Some hunters would claim someone who hunts turkeys with a rifle is "un-ethical" or "un-sporting". Well, I believe that rifles(if chosen and loaded correctly) are the best tools for harvesting turkeys in many situations. They kick less, make less noise, and are often cheaper to shoot than a shotgun. I still rely heavily on my calling skills.
I would like to hear from others who use rifles for turkey hunting. Especially in regards to their caliber choice.