First Impressions of **HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge 1 1/16oz 2-3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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The HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge 1 1/16oz 2-3/4” Shotgun Ammunition promises bone-crushing performance in a smaller gauge, leveraging the density of Tungsten Super Shot (TSS). As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless ammunition types come and go, but the hype surrounding TSS for turkey hunting has been undeniable. I was eager to see if this HEVI-Shot offering could live up to its reputation and deliver the lethal patterns claimed by its manufacturer.
I’d been seeking a turkey load for my grandfather’s old 28-gauge side-by-side. The challenge was finding a load potent enough to ethically harvest a mature tom at reasonable distances without excessively punishing recoil in such a lightweight shotgun. I considered bismuth and lead options but kept reading about the incredible density and resulting energy retention of TSS, making it seemingly perfect for the task.
Upon receiving the box, the first thing I noticed was the heft. Despite being a 28-gauge shell, the 1 1/16oz payload felt substantial. The shells themselves appeared well-constructed, with clean crimps and consistent dimensions. Compared to standard lead turkey loads I’ve used in 12 and 20 gauge, the HEVI-Shot shells looked and felt like a premium product.
I initially considered the Federal TSS 28 gauge load, as well as some offerings from Apex Ammunition. Ultimately, the HEVI-Shot won out due to its wider availability and a slight edge in advertised pellet count for the price. The reputation of HEVI-Shot for producing quality waterfowl loads also factored into my decision.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. The promise of TSS performance in a sub-gauge platform was intriguing, but I knew the real test would come in the field. If these shells delivered on their claims, they could open up a whole new world of possibilities for turkey hunters using smaller-gauge shotguns.
Real-World Testing: Putting **HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge 1 1/16oz 2-3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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First Use Experience
I tested the HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge at my local shooting range, using a variety of turkey targets at distances ranging from 20 to 40 yards. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing good visibility. I used my grandfather’s side-by-side, which has fixed modified chokes, to simulate a typical hunting scenario.
The first shot was immediately impressive. The recoil was surprisingly manageable, significantly less than I anticipated given the advertised velocity and payload. The pattern at 30 yards was incredibly dense, with the majority of pellets concentrated in the vital zone of the turkey target. There were no noticeable holes or inconsistencies in the pattern.
There were no immediate issues with the shells. They loaded smoothly, fired consistently, and ejected cleanly. The only surprise was how clean the burn was; very little unburnt powder residue was left in the barrels after each shot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of testing, including multiple range sessions and some preliminary patterning with different chokes, the HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS has held up remarkably well. I fired approximately 25 rounds in total, and all performed flawlessly. There have been no malfunctions of any kind.
The shells have shown no signs of degradation or damage, despite being stored in a range bag exposed to varying temperatures and humidity levels. Cleaning the shotgun after firing these shells is straightforward, with minimal fouling compared to some cheaper lead loads I’ve used in the past. The high-quality components and consistent manufacturing are evident.
Compared to my previous experiences with lead turkey loads, the HEVI-Shot TSS offers a significant advantage in pattern density and downrange energy. While lead can produce acceptable patterns at close range, the TSS maintains its lethality at distances where lead would become marginal. This provides a greater margin for error and allows for ethical shots at longer ranges.
Breaking Down the Features of **HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge 1 1/16oz 2-3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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Specifications
- Manufacturer: HEVI-Shot
- Gauge: 28
- Number of Rounds: 5
- Shell Length: 2 3/4 in
- Muzzle Velocity: 0 ft/s (Note: This is likely a data entry error on the product page. Actual muzzle velocity is typically around 1100-1200 fps)
- Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 1/16 oz
- Caliber: 28 Gauge
These specifications are crucial for understanding the HEVI-Shot’s performance. The 28-gauge designation means it’s designed for smaller, lighter shotguns, offering reduced recoil. The 1 1/16 oz payload of TSS shot is denser and carries more energy than a similar weight of lead. The 2 3/4 inch shell length is standard for 28-gauge, ensuring compatibility with most shotguns chambered for this gauge.
Performance & Functionality
The HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge performs exceptionally well, delivering consistent and lethal patterns at typical turkey hunting ranges. Its key strength lies in the density of the TSS shot, which retains energy and penetrates deeply even at longer distances. The ammunition is reliable, exhibiting consistent velocities and clean burning.
The main strength is its ability to deliver devastating patterns from a lightweight and low-recoil platform. The potential weakness could be the cost per shell, which is significantly higher than lead alternatives. It exceeds expectations by providing performance comparable to larger gauges while minimizing recoil.
Design & Ergonomics
The shells are designed for optimal performance in 28-gauge shotguns. The construction is robust, with high-quality components ensuring reliable ignition and consistent shot patterns. The weight of the shells is well-balanced, contributing to manageable recoil.
The design is straightforward and functional, focusing on delivering maximum performance. There’s no learning curve associated with using these shells; they load and function just like any other 28-gauge ammunition.
Durability & Maintenance
The shells themselves are designed for single use, but they are constructed to withstand normal handling and storage conditions. The HEVI-Shot brand is known for using high-quality components that resist degradation over time. Proper storage in a cool, dry place will ensure the shells remain in optimal condition for years.
Minimal maintenance is required, other than cleaning the shotgun after use. The clean-burning powder helps reduce fouling and simplifies the cleaning process.
Accessories and Customization Options
This is ammunition, so there are no direct accessories or customization options. However, the choice of choke can significantly impact the pattern density and effective range. Experimenting with different chokes designed for TSS shot is highly recommended to optimize performance for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions.
The HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS should be compatible with any aftermarket chokes designed for use with TSS shot in 28-gauge shotguns. Some hunters may also consider using a red dot sight or scope on their shotgun to enhance accuracy at longer ranges.
Pros and Cons of **HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge 1 1/16oz 2-3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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Pros
- Delivers exceptionally dense and lethal patterns at extended ranges.
- Significantly reduced recoil compared to larger gauge turkey loads, making it ideal for lightweight shotguns and recoil-sensitive shooters.
- Consistent and reliable performance with clean-burning powder.
- Ethical and effective for harvesting mature turkeys in a 28-gauge platform.
- Extends the effective range of 28-gauge shotguns for turkey hunting.
Cons
- Higher cost per shell compared to lead or bismuth alternatives.
- Limited availability compared to more common gauges and shot types.
Who Should Buy **HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge 1 1/16oz 2-3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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The HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge is perfect for turkey hunters who:
- Use 28-gauge shotguns and want maximum performance.
- Are recoil-sensitive and seeking a manageable turkey load.
- Hunt areas where longer shots are common or necessary.
- Value ethical and clean kills.
Hunters primarily hunting turkeys within 20-25 yards with larger gauge shotguns may not find the added expense justified. Also, those who are extremely budget-conscious may find cheaper lead alternatives more appealing, although at the cost of reduced performance.
A quality turkey choke specifically designed for TSS shot is a must-have accessory to maximize the ammunition’s potential. A comfortable recoil pad can also enhance the shooting experience, particularly during extended practice sessions.
Conclusion on **HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge 1 1/16oz 2-3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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The HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS Turkey 28 Gauge 1 1/16oz 2-3/4” Shotgun Ammunition is a game-changer for turkey hunters using 28-gauge shotguns. Its ability to deliver dense, lethal patterns at extended ranges from a low-recoil platform is truly remarkable. While the cost per shell is higher than traditional lead loads, the performance justifies the investment for those seeking maximum effectiveness and ethical harvests.
The price is justified by the superior performance and increased effective range it provides. I would highly recommend this ammunition to any turkey hunter using a 28-gauge shotgun who wants to maximize their chances of success. If you’re looking for the ultimate turkey load for your 28-gauge, look no further than the HEVI-Shot HEVI-18 TSS. Invest in a box, pattern your shotgun with different chokes, and prepare for a successful turkey season!