How to Win at a Turkey Shoot Competition

Turkey shoots are a beloved American tradition, especially in rural areas. These shooting competitions offer camaraderie, friendly competition, and the chance to win prizes like frozen turkeys hams or even cash. If you want to increase your odds of taking home the top prize, follow these tips on how to win a turkey shoot.

Understand the Rules and Format

While rules can vary between turkey shoots, most follow a similar format:

• Participants pay an entry fee, receive a position and token/target.

• Shotguns, often 12 gauge, are used to shoot from around 25 yards.

• Shots are taken one at a time at a paper target with an X or circle.

• The closest shot to the center X or with the most pellets in the circle wins.

• The shoot provides the shells so everyone uses the same ammunition.

Other shoots may have variations, like using a playing card or plywood as the target. Listen carefully to range commands and ask questions if anything is unclear. Following safety rules is paramount.

Use the Right Gear

Having the proper gear can help your chances. Ideal equipment includes:

• 12 gauge shotgun: The larger shell holds more pellets to up your odds.

• Full or tight choke: Concentrates the shot pattern for a better chance at a close group. Some shoots restrict ultra-tight chokes.

• Open sights: Allow precise aiming, if permitted by rules.

• Steady mount: A semi-auto shotgun may help limit recoil and muzzle rise compared to pumps or bolts.

Pattern Your Shotgun

Do some test shooting with your shotgun and ammo choice to understand the patterning:

• Fire at a large target from 25 yards away. Use the same shells you’ll shoot at the event.

• Determine the center of the pellet pattern.

• Adjust your sights to shift the center of the pattern closer to your point of aim.

Master Shooting Fundamentals

Having solid shooting form is crucial for accuracy. Be sure to:

• Firmly mount the stock, pull into your shoulder.

• Align sights properly on the target center.

• Use a light grip to minimize torque.

• Keep cheek planted on the stock.

• Slowly squeeze the trigger straight back.

• Follow through after the shot.

Practice these fundamentals until they become second nature.

Learn to Aim Precisely

Your ability to precisely aim and match your point of impact to point of aim is critical.

• Focus intently on the target center X. Block out distractions.

• Mount the gun, align sights, and find your aim point every time.

• After each shot, adjust your aim point based on sight picture and point of impact.

Get Familiar with the Shotgun

Shoot your shotgun regularly leading up to the event so it feels like an extension of your body. Knowing your gun inside and out builds confidence.

Control Breathing and Trigger Squeeze

Two areas that can make or break your shot:

• Breathe naturally, exhale, and settle before squeezing trigger.

• Slowly press the trigger straight back until the shot goes off. Avoid jerking.

Mastering breathing and trigger control leads to accuracy.

Stay Calm and Confident

Having a confident mental approach helps shooting ability.

• Visualize making great shots during the match.

• Focus only on each shot, not outcomes.

• Learn from misses but don’t dwell on them.

• Stay positive and shake off bad shots quickly.

Arrive Early

Get to the turkey shoot range early so you can observe and learn the flow. Arriving prepared and not rushed puts you in the best frame of mind to shoot well.

Follow Range Commands

Listen to range officers closely and don’t load or fire until told to do so. Follow all commands to the letter. Missing a command could mean a DQ.

Take Your Time

When it’s your turn to shoot, take a breath, focus, go through your pre-shot routine, and execute the shot. Don’t rush just because others are waiting.

Ask Questions

If there’s any point you’re unsure about on rules, procedures, or commands, ask a range officer. Don’t leave anything to chance.

Have Fun!

Approach the competition with an open, learning mindset. Support your fellow competitors. Be gracious whether you win or lose. Enjoy the camaraderie and tradition of this classic American shooting sport.

Common Turkey Shoot Mistakes to Avoid

While winning takes skill and practice, losing often comes down to simple mistakes. Avoid these turkey shoot pitfalls:

• Showing up late and feeling rushed

• Using a shotgun you’re not familiar with

• Poor shooting form or fundamentals

• Rushing your shots

• Ignoring range commands

• Trying to adjust for luck instead of focusing on each shot

• Not learning from misses

• Having an overly competitive attitude

Turkey Shoot FAQs

What’s the difference between a turkey shoot and a regular shooting competition?

Turkey shoots are meant to be fun, accessible events focused on camaraderie. Luck plays a bigger role than pure skill. Prizes are often food like frozen turkeys.

What size shotguns can you use?

12 gauge shotguns are most common, but many shoots also allow smaller 20 and 16 gauges. The larger 12 gauge ups your pellet count for better odds.

How far away are the targets placed?

You’ll typically be shooting paper targets at around 25 yards. Other matches may use shot cards or plywood targets.

Can you use your own special shotgun and ammo?

Most shoots supply ammunition and don’t allow overly customized shotguns, so everyone is on an even playing field.

Who can compete in a turkey shoot?

Turkey shoots are open to anyone – all ages and shooting ability levels have a chance to win. Folks of any experience level can have fun and potentially take home a prize.

Keep Learning and Improving

Don’t get discouraged if you don’t win your first turkey shoot. Compete in as many events as possible to continuously hone your skills. Strive to learn something from every match. With dedication to improving the fundamentals, your turkey shoot scores and prize hauls will grow over time.

Good luck in your next turkey shoot competition. Stay safe, have fun, and bring home those frozen birds!