What Makes Winchester Long Beard TSS 20 Gauge 1-9/16 oz #9 3 Shotgun Ammunition LBTSS2039 34% Off Stand Out?
The Winchester Long Beard TSS 20 Gauge 1-9/16 oz #9 3 Shotgun Ammunition LBTSS2039 34% Off promises to be a game-changer for turkey hunters, particularly those who favor the 20 gauge platform. This ammunition distinguishes itself with its use of Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), known for its incredibly high density and resulting tight patterns at extended ranges. With a hefty 1-9/16 oz payload of #9 shot, it aims to deliver devastating terminal performance on tough gobblers.
I’ve spent over a decade chasing turkeys across various terrains, from thick Southern swamps to open Midwestern fields. While I appreciate the reach and power of a 12 gauge, I often prefer the lighter recoil and maneuverability of a 20 gauge, especially when hunting in dense cover. However, finding a 20 gauge load that truly rivals the performance of premium 12 gauge options at longer distances has always been a challenge, which is exactly what prompted me to try the Winchester Long Beard TSS.
The packaging is typical Winchester, functional and informative. Upon opening, the deep purple color of the TSS shot is immediately noticeable, a clear indication of the high-density material within. The shells themselves feel well-constructed, with a tight crimp and consistent dimensions.
Compared to other 20 gauge turkey loads I’ve used, like the Federal Grand Slam and the Remington Premier Magnum Turkey, the Winchester Long Beard TSS is significantly more expensive. However, the promise of superior pattern density and extended range made it a worthwhile investment, at least on paper. The appeal of ethical, clean kills at distances that previously felt marginal was too tempting to ignore.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The price definitely raised the stakes, but the technology and reputation behind Winchester‘s Long Beard line suggested that this ammunition could truly deliver. It felt like a significant step up from traditional lead or even copper-plated lead loads.
Real-World Testing: Putting Winchester Long Beard TSS 20 Gauge 1-9/16 oz #9 3 Shotgun Ammunition LBTSS2039 34% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a controlled shooting range, using a variety of targets at distances from 20 to 50 yards. I used a 20 gauge shotgun with a full choke, which is recommended for optimal performance with TSS loads. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing good conditions for accurate testing.
The first shot was an eye-opener. The recoil was surprisingly manageable, even with the heavy payload. The pattern at 40 yards was incredibly dense, with a tight core and even distribution of pellets. There were well over 100 pellets inside a 10-inch circle, ensuring a lethal hit on a turkey’s vital areas.
The only initial issue I encountered was the price per shell. Hesitation creeps in when sending rounds downrange that cost a hefty amount compared to standard ammunition. This is a factor when patterning and sighting in a gun, especially when factoring in the cost of targets and range fees.
Extended Use & Reliability
After the initial range testing, I used the Winchester Long Beard TSS throughout the spring turkey season. I hunted in various environments, including thick woods and open fields, encountering both wet and dry conditions. Over the course of several weeks, I fired about a dozen rounds, and the ammunition performed flawlessly.
The shells consistently ejected cleanly, and there were no misfires or feeding issues. The patterns remained consistent, providing confidence in making ethical shots at longer ranges. I took two turkeys with the Winchester Long Beard TSS, one at 35 yards and another at 42 yards. Both birds went down immediately with minimal suffering.
Maintenance for shotgun ammunition is practically nonexistent, but the brass on these shells held up well, with no signs of corrosion or damage after being exposed to moisture. Comparing this to previous experiences with standard lead loads, the Winchester Long Beard TSS offers a noticeable improvement in terminal performance and confidence at longer distances, justifying the higher price point for dedicated turkey hunting situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Winchester Long Beard TSS 20 Gauge 1-9/16 oz #9 3 Shotgun Ammunition LBTSS2039 34% Off
Specifications
Manufacturer: Winchester.
Gauge: 20.
Number of Rounds: 5.
Shot Size: 9.
Shell Length: 3 inches.
Muzzle Velocity: 1100 ft/s.
Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 9/16 oz.
Cartridge Case Material: Plastic.
These specifications translate directly into performance. The high-density TSS shot allows for tighter patterns and greater energy retention downrange compared to lead. The 3-inch shell provides ample space for the 1-9/16 oz payload, and the 1100 ft/s muzzle velocity strikes a good balance between recoil and velocity.
Performance & Functionality
The Winchester Long Beard TSS excels in its primary function: delivering devastatingly effective patterns at extended ranges. Its accuracy is exceptional, thanks to the tight groupings achieved with the TSS shot. The ammunition is incredibly reliable, with consistent ignition and clean burning propellants.
The main strength is its ability to extend the effective range of a 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting. A potential weakness, however, is the specialized nature of the ammunition. It’s designed specifically for turkey hunting and may not be ideal for other applications. It absolutely exceeds expectations for a 20 gauge turkey load.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition itself is straightforward in design, with a standard plastic hull and a crimped closure. The deep purple color of the TSS shot is a visual indicator of its premium composition. The shells are easy to load and handle, with no sharp edges or inconsistencies in dimensions.
There is practically no learning curve associated with using this ammunition. Load it into your shotgun and you are good to go.
Durability & Maintenance
As ammunition, the Winchester Long Beard TSS is designed for single-use. The components are durable and designed to withstand the rigors of storage and use in various environmental conditions. No specific maintenance is required beyond proper storage in a cool, dry place.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Winchester Long Beard TSS doesn’t require any specific accessories, but pairing it with a quality turkey choke is highly recommended. Aftermarket chokes designed for TSS shot can further enhance pattern density and consistency. There are no specific customization options for the ammunition itself.
Pros and Cons of Winchester Long Beard TSS 20 Gauge 1-9/16 oz #9 3 Shotgun Ammunition LBTSS2039 34% Off
Pros
- Extended Range: The TSS shot provides exceptional pattern density and energy retention at longer distances, increasing your effective range on turkeys.
- High Pellet Count: The #9 shot size delivers a dense swarm of pellets, ensuring a lethal hit on the turkey’s vital areas.
- Manageable Recoil: Despite the heavy payload, the recoil is surprisingly manageable in a 20 gauge shotgun.
- Consistent Performance: The ammunition is reliable and consistent, with clean burning propellants and reliable ignition.
- Ethical Kills: Allows for clean, ethical kills at distances that might be marginal with traditional lead loads.
Cons
- Price: This is premium ammunition, and the cost per shell is significantly higher than standard lead or copper-plated lead loads.
- Specialized Use: Designed specifically for turkey hunting and may not be ideal for other applications.
Who Should Buy Winchester Long Beard TSS 20 Gauge 1-9/16 oz #9 3 Shotgun Ammunition LBTSS2039 34% Off?
The Winchester Long Beard TSS is perfect for serious turkey hunters who prioritize ethical kills at extended ranges and prefer the lighter recoil of a 20 gauge shotgun. It’s also a great choice for hunters who hunt in areas where non-toxic shot is required. Hunters willing to invest in premium ammunition for optimal performance will greatly benefit.
Hunters on a tight budget or those who primarily hunt at close ranges (inside 30 yards) might find the cost of the Winchester Long Beard TSS prohibitive. Those who prefer to use their shotgun for multiple types of game might also find this specialized ammunition less appealing.
A quality turkey choke designed for TSS shot is a must-have accessory to maximize the performance of this ammunition. Some hunters may also consider adding a red dot sight or scope to their shotgun to improve accuracy at longer ranges.
Conclusion on Winchester Long Beard TSS 20 Gauge 1-9/16 oz #9 3 Shotgun Ammunition LBTSS2039 34% Off
The Winchester Long Beard TSS 20 Gauge 1-9/16 oz #9 3 Shotgun Ammunition LBTSS2039 34% Off is a top-tier turkey hunting load that delivers on its promise of extended range and devastating terminal performance. While the price is higher than standard options, the superior pattern density and confidence it provides can be well worth the investment for serious turkey hunters.
The value proposition lies in its ability to extend the effective range of a 20 gauge shotgun, allowing for ethical kills at distances that previously felt marginal. The tighter patterns and increased downrange energy translate to fewer missed birds and quicker, more humane kills.
I would absolutely recommend the Winchester Long Beard TSS to any turkey hunter looking to maximize their chances of success. If you’re serious about turkey hunting and want the best possible performance from your 20 gauge shotgun, this ammunition is a game-changer. Invest in a box, pattern your shotgun, and get ready to experience the difference.