When to switch from practice loads to hunting loads?

Establishing a Foundation

When developing your shooting skills for 12 gauge turkey hunting, it’s essential to start with practice loads. These loads are designed to minimize recoil and stress on your shoulder, allowing you to focus on developing a consistent shooting form and technique. Practice loads usually have a lower powder charge, which can range from 5-15 grams (0.2-0.5 oz), and a heavier, softer shot for reduced recoil.

Building Consistency

As you progress in your practice, you’ll want to focus on achieving consistent patterns at varying distances. A good starting point is to shoot at 20-30 yards, with the goal of producing a consistent 12-inch diameter circle or smaller with your shot pattern. This requires adjusting your choke, shotgun, and shooting form to achieve optimal results. Typically, you’ll want to spend around 20-50 hours of practice before making the switch to hunting loads.

Hunting Load Considerations

When switching to hunting loads, keep in mind that they usually have a higher powder charge, ranging from 25-40 grams (0.9-1.4 oz), and a heavier, harder shot. This increased power can make the gun more challenging to handle, especially for those with smaller shoulders or less experience. When selecting your hunting load, consider the type of terrain you’ll be hunting in and the distances you’ll be shooting at. A general rule of thumb is to use a 1 1/8 or 1 1/4 ounce load at 1250-1300 fps for longer shots, and a 1 1/4 or 1 3/8 ounce load at 1150-1200 fps for closer shots.