Quick Answer
TSS is worth the extra cost for turkey loads due to its effectiveness at longer ranges and reduced spread.
TSS Basics
TSS stands for “Tungsten Super Shot,” a type of shotshell technology developed by Hevi-Shot. It uses tungsten, a denser material than lead, to create smaller, more uniform pellets. These characteristics result in a tighter pattern at longer ranges.
Pattern Density and Range
Tests have shown that TSS produces a tighter pattern than traditional lead shot out to 45 yards, with a 20-gauge load. This translates to a 30% increase in pattern density at 40 yards. For a 20-gauge turkey hunter, this means more pellets on target, increasing the chances of a clean kill.
Field Experience and Shot Placement
In the field, experienced turkey hunters have reported that TSS loads consistently deliver a clean kill at longer ranges, often without the need for follow-up shots. Shot placement remains crucial, but TSS provides a margin of error that can be the difference between a clean kill and a wounded bird.
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