1. Tight Pattern: An extra full choke constricts the shot more than other chokes, creating a dense, concentrated pattern that maximizes the number of pellets hitting the turkey’s vital areas (head and neck).
2. Longer Range: Turkeys are often hunted at distances of 30-40 yards, and an extra full choke helps maintain pattern density at these ranges.
3. Specialized Design: Many turkey chokes are designed specifically for turkey loads, such as heavy shot (e.g., #4, #5, or #6 shot) or specialized turkey ammunition (e.g., TSS—Tungsten Super Shot).

• Constriction: Turkey chokes typically have a constriction of 0.660 inches or tighter, depending on the gauge of your shotgun.
• Extended Length: Many turkey chokes are extended, meaning they protrude slightly beyond the barrel. This helps improve patterning and makes it easier to clean.
• Porting: Some turkey chokes are ported to reduce recoil, which can be helpful when firing heavy turkey loads.

• Full Choke: If you don’t have an extra full choke, a full choke can still be effective, especially at shorter ranges (20-30 yards). However, it may not deliver the same level of pattern density as a turkey-specific choke.
• Modified Choke: Not ideal for turkeys, as it produces a wider pattern that may not deliver enough pellets to the vital areas at longer ranges.

This is a fantastic breakdown of turkey chokes! I've always found that going with a dedicated extra-full or even a super-full choke makes a huge difference, especially with patterning those heavier turkey loads. It's really reassuring to see all the reasons laid out here. I'm curious, for those of you who've experimented a lot, have you noticed a significant difference in performance between ported and non-ported turkey chokes in terms of pattern density or recoil reduction? I've been debating trying a ported one myself, but haven't pulled the trigger yet!

That's a great question about ported vs. non-ported chokes! I've definitely noticed a difference with ported chokes, primarily in recoil reduction, especially when I'm shooting those heavier 3.5-inch turkey loads. It makes follow-up shots feel a bit more manageable, though with turkey hunting, you're usually only taking one shot. In terms of pattern density, I honestly haven't seen a drastic improvement or degradation directly attributable to porting. It seems like the choke's constriction and how it handles specific loads are bigger factors there. For me, the main benefit has always been comfort. Has anyone else noticed a significant change in their patterns with ported chokes, or is it mostly about that sweet recoil reduction for you too?

That's a really good summary of the ported vs. non-ported debate! I completely agree that the recoil reduction is where ported chokes really shine, especially with those magnum turkey loads. It doesn't make a huge difference since it's usually just one shot, but it definitely makes the shoulder a bit happier during practice sessions or if you ever need a quick follow-up (though ideally, you won't!). Like you, I haven't seen a dramatic change in pattern density directly from the porting itself. It feels like the specific constriction and how well the choke tube mates with your shotgun barrel and chosen load are much bigger factors for getting that tight, consistent pattern. I've been using a few different brands of ported chokes over the years, and some seem to "feel" better than others in terms of recoil, even if the patterns are similar. Has anyone found a particular brand of ported choke that they feel offers the best balance of recoil reduction *and* pattern performance with their setup? I'm always on the lookout for new recommendations!