First Impressions of HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS Turkey 20 Gauge 1.25oz 2.75in Shotgun Ammunition HS7109 17% Off
The HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS Turkey 20 Gauge 1.25oz 2.75in Shotgun Ammunition HS7109 17% Off promises to redefine turkey hunting with its ultra-dense tungsten super shot (TSS) payload. This ammunition, manufactured by HEVI-Shot, boasts tighter patterns and extended range, making it a serious contender for hunters seeking peak performance.
My quest for this particular ammunition began last season. I missed a tom at what I considered a reasonable distance with my standard lead loads. I needed a cartridge that could deliver lethal patterns at slightly extended ranges without sacrificing the manageable recoil of my 20-gauge shotgun. I was looking for a confidence booster.
The packaging is functional, not flashy. The box clearly indicates the gauge, shot size, and load. The shells themselves appear well-constructed, with a clean crimp and consistent appearance. Handling them, you immediately notice a substantial feel, hinting at the density of the TSS pellets.
Compared to standard lead 20-gauge turkey loads, and even bismuth options, the HEVI-Shot offering felt distinctly different. While Winchester Long Beard XR is a popular choice, its lead payload has limitations at longer ranges. Bismuth alternatives like Federal Premium Bismuth offer improved density over lead, but still fall short of the advertised performance of TSS. The promise of 48% greater density than lead immediately set HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS apart.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The claims seemed bold, but the reputation of HEVI-Shot and the science behind TSS were compelling. I was eager to see if the performance lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS Turkey 20 Gauge 1.25oz 2.75in Shotgun Ammunition HS7109 17% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS was at a local shooting range. The goal was to pattern the load at various distances and gauge its consistency. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze – ideal conditions for testing.
The recoil was surprisingly manageable for such a dense payload. It felt comparable to standard lead turkey loads, which was a pleasant surprise. The patterns, however, were where this ammunition truly shined. At 30 yards, the pattern was incredibly tight and uniform, with a dense core that would undoubtedly dispatch a turkey with authority. Even at 40 yards, the pattern held together remarkably well, with sufficient pellet density to ensure a clean kill. I used a modified choke for testing.
There were no malfunctions or any other noticeable issues after the first-time use. The shells cycled flawlessly through my 20-gauge pump action shotgun.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of testing and a successful turkey season, the HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS has proven its reliability and durability. I fired approximately 20 rounds through my shotgun, and each shell performed consistently.
There were no signs of wear and tear on the shells themselves. The brass remained clean, and the crimps held firm even after being stored in my hunting vest. Cleaning my shotgun after using this ammunition was no different than cleaning after using standard lead or steel loads.
Compared to my previous experiences with lead turkey loads, the HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS significantly outperformed them in terms of pattern density and effective range. My confidence in taking longer shots increased dramatically. The difference was night and day.
Breaking Down the Features of HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS Turkey 20 Gauge 1.25oz 2.75in Shotgun Ammunition HS7109 17% Off
Specifications
- Manufacturer: HEVI-Shot. This company is known for their innovative and high-performance shotshells.
- Gauge: 20. A popular choice for turkey hunters seeking a balance between manageable recoil and adequate power.
- Number of Rounds: 5. Standard packaging for premium turkey loads.
- Shot Size: 9. Smaller shot size leverages the density of TSS to achieve high pellet counts.
- Shell Length: 2 3/4 in. A common shell length that fits most 20-gauge shotguns.
- Muzzle Velocity: 1200 ft/s. Provides the necessary speed for effective downrange energy.
- Application: General Turkey Hunting. Specifically designed for turkey hunting.
- Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 1/4 oz. A sufficient payload for ethical turkey hunting.
- Shot Material: Tungsten. This is key, as the Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) is far denser than lead.
- Muzzle Energy: 1250 ft-lbs. Delivers the necessary impact force for quick, humane kills.
- Lead Free: Yes. Environmentally friendly and compliant with regulations in certain areas.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance of the ammunition. The high density of the tungsten shot allows for smaller shot sizes and higher pellet counts, resulting in tighter patterns and extended range. The 1200 ft/s muzzle velocity ensures that the pellets retain enough energy to penetrate effectively at longer distances.
Performance & Functionality
The HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS excels in its primary function: delivering tight, lethal patterns at extended ranges. Its accuracy is exceptional, allowing for confident shots at distances that would be questionable with traditional lead loads. The reliability is unwavering, with consistent performance from shell to shell.
The main strength of this ammunition lies in its ability to maintain pattern density at longer ranges. This is due to the incredibly dense tungsten pellets. One area that could be improved is the price point, as it is more expensive than standard lead or bismuth loads.
The HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS exceeded my expectations. It provided a noticeable increase in effective range and pattern density compared to my previous ammunition. The results were undeniable.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS is focused on functionality. The shells are well-constructed and consistently sized, ensuring smooth cycling in various shotgun actions. The weight is noticeable, but not excessive, contributing to a stable feel during shooting.
This ammunition is user-friendly. No special tools or techniques are required for loading or firing.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the nature of shotgun ammunition, durability primarily refers to the integrity of the shell during storage and use. The HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS shells are robust and resistant to damage, ensuring reliable performance even after extended storage. Maintaining a clean shotgun is essential, regardless of the ammunition used.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come directly with the ammunition itself, other than the standard packaging. However, optimizing your shotgun with a quality aftermarket choke specifically designed for TSS can further enhance the performance of the HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS. While not a modification of the ammunition, it is an important consideration for achieving optimal results.
The HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS is compatible with most 20-gauge shotguns designed to handle 2 3/4-inch shells. Experimenting with different chokes is highly recommended to find the optimal combination for your specific firearm.
Pros and Cons of HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS Turkey 20 Gauge 1.25oz 2.75in Shotgun Ammunition HS7109 17% Off
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: Delivers incredibly tight and uniform patterns at various ranges.
- Extended Effective Range: Allows for ethical shots at distances beyond the capabilities of traditional lead loads.
- Manageable Recoil: Recoil is surprisingly similar to standard lead loads, making it comfortable to shoot.
- High Pellet Count: The smaller shot size, combined with the density of TSS, results in a high pellet count for increased hit probability.
- Lead-Free: Environmentally friendly and compliant with regulations in lead-restricted areas.
Cons
- Price: Significantly more expensive than standard lead or bismuth turkey loads.
- Over-Penetration: The exceptional density of TSS can lead to over-penetration at close ranges. Consider using a more open choke at closer distances.
Who Should Buy HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS Turkey 20 Gauge 1.25oz 2.75in Shotgun Ammunition HS7109 17% Off?
The HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS Turkey 20 Gauge 1.25oz 2.75in Shotgun Ammunition HS7109 17% Off is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand peak performance and are willing to invest in the best ammunition available. It is also an excellent choice for hunters who hunt in areas with lead restrictions.
Hunters primarily hunting at very close range (inside of 20 yards) should probably avoid this product due to potential over-penetration, and may want to consider a lead load with a wider pattern.
A quality aftermarket choke designed for TSS is a must-have accessory to maximize the performance of this ammunition. Also, proper sighting in and patterning of the load is essential to understand its performance in your specific shotgun.
Conclusion on HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS Turkey 20 Gauge 1.25oz 2.75in Shotgun Ammunition HS7109 17% Off
The HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS Turkey 20 Gauge 1.25oz 2.75in Shotgun Ammunition HS7109 17% Off is a game-changer for turkey hunting. Its exceptional pattern density, extended range, and manageable recoil make it a top-tier choice for serious hunters. While the price point is higher than traditional ammunition, the performance justifies the cost for those seeking the ultimate in turkey hunting lethality.
The value proposition is clear: increased confidence and a greater chance of success in the field. I would highly recommend this ammunition to any turkey hunter looking to elevate their game.
If you’re serious about putting turkeys on the table, invest in HEVI-Shot Hevi 18 TSS. You won’t regret it.