Turkey hunters vary in age, experience, and physical ability, making our South Dakota turkey camp a diverse group. Some guys and gals arrive without a shotgun, primarily to avoid the hassles when flying, myself included. Luckily, the camp had several Mossberg shotguns on hand, including the 935 auto-loader, 835 pump, and tactical models that allow a hunter to tailor length-of-pull to his or her exact specifications.
The Tactical Special Purpose 20-gauge provides plenty of gobbler knock-down power in a light and adjustable frame. Chambered for 3-inch shells, the classic yellow hulls pack plenty of punch out to 40 yards. Many avid spring hunters actually prefer the lighter, more agile shotgun over standard models. Usually, we have a few sons or daughters in camp and a tactical model can be quickly fitted to their length-of-pull. In addition, the lighter recoil of the 20-gauge makes for a more pleasant shooting experience.
When choosing a gun from a camp rack, it’s important to choose one that best meets the features you’re used to when shooting. If you normally shoot an auto-loading model and pick up a pump, you’ll undoubtedly squeeze the trigger a second time before remembering that you need to physically work the action. In normal hunting situations on pheasants, ducks, or turkeys, that usually means a missed opportunity. The Mossberg 935 Turkey was a popular selection and rarely required a second shot for a downed bird. Chambered in 3.5-inch, hunters could opt for the maximum range loads the longer hull offered or stay with the traditional 3-inch magnum. The 935 has a 24-inch Vent Rib Overbored with an Ulti-Full Choke, a model that will feel perfectly balanced to the seasoned waterfowler or the person accustomed to shooting standard-length shotguns.
Finally, the 835-Ulti-Mag has been a camp favorite for years due to its simplicity of use, lighter weight, and short stature. This year’s models came with the LPA Trigger, giving the shooter adjustability to meet varying tastes and field needs. Just 40.75 inches long, I was able to hold a decoy in one hand and down a strutting tom with the other, thanks to the compact nature of the 835. Cloaked in Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity, the shotgun disappears against a tree trunk or your camo clothes. Many Mossberg models come in THUG combination models that allow for interchangeable barrels, giving your trusty favorite shotgun a multitude of opportunity. For the full line of Mossberg Shotguns, see your nearest gun store or visit mossberg.com to request a catalog or view models online.
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