Finding the right shotgun for young turkey hunters is all about making sure they’re set up for success from the get-go. Safety, comfort, and the right fit are top priorities, and that’s why we’re zeroing in on 20 gauge shotguns with barrel lengths in the sweet spot of 20-24 inches.
These aren’t arbitrary numbers; they’re the result of countless experiences and feedback from the field. They hit the mark for being easy to handle, offering less kick, and still packing enough punch for turkey hunting. Here’s a breakdown of these models, starting with the youth purpose-built shotguns to some alternatives to these guys.
MOSSBERG 505 YOUTH 20GA 3″
Starting our list is the Mossberg 505 Youth, a pump-action shotgun that offers an affordable entry point without compromising on quality. Priced at $411.99, it stands out for its:
- Hardwood stock and blued barrel, combining traditional aesthetics with durability.
- Dual bead sights and Accu-Set chokes, enhancing accuracy and versatility in the field.
- Compact dimensions with a 12″ length of pull and a 20″ barrel, making it manageable for younger hunters.
- 5 round capacity, ensuring readiness for multiple opportunities.
- Safety features including a gun lock, emphasizing responsible handling.
870 FIELD YTH 20/21 RC MD VT
Next, we have the Remington 870 Field Youth, a pump-action model priced at $518.99. It enhances the hunting experience with:
- Walnut stock featuring laser cut checkering for improved grip and aesthetic appeal.
- 21″ vent rib barrel, providing a balance between maneuverability and accuracy.
- Bead front sight for quick target acquisition.
- Comprehensive choke options (F, M, IC included), allowing for adaptability in various hunting scenarios.
- 4 + 1 capacity, blending functionality with a youth-friendly design.
MOSSBERG SA-20 YOUTH BANTAM
The Mossberg SA-20 Youth Bantam introduces semi-automatic action to our list, priced at $568.99. Key features include:
- Black synthetic stock and matte blued finish for resilience against the elements.
- Sport set chokes offering five options for a tailored shooting experience.
- 13″ length of pull and a 24″ barrel, balancing comfort and performance.
- Front bead sight for efficient targeting.
- 5 round capacity, suitable for various turkey hunting situations.
TRISTAR VIPER G2 COMPACT 20GA
At the top of our range is the TriStar Viper G2 Compact, a semi-automatic shotgun priced at $667.99. It offers:
- Camo synthetic stock with an additional adult-sized stock, ensuring the shotgun grows with the youth.
- 24″ barrel with a 2″ extension, providing versatility and extended use.
- 5+1 capacity, the highest among our selections, for extended hunting sessions.
- Internal choke tubes for customized shooting conditions.
- Youth to adult adaptability, making it a long-term investment in a young hunter’s arsenal.
Each of these shotguns has been designed with the youth hunter in mind, featuring reduced length of pull, lighter weight, and user-friendly safety features. From the budget-conscious Mossberg 505 Youth to the versatile and adaptable TriStar Viper G2 Compact, there’s a shotgun in this list to suit any young enthusiast’s turkey hunting needs.
Alternative Options
Purpose-built youth shotguns offer the ideal combination of size, weight, and features for young turkey hunters, ensuring a comfortable and effective introduction to the sport. However, there are circumstances where exploring alternatives might better align with individual needs, budget constraints, or the anticipation of growth that could soon outpace a youth model’s fit. For those on a tight budget, some standard shotguns present more affordable choices without sacrificing essential functionalities.
On the other hand, as young hunters grow, the need for a larger shotgun that can adapt to their changing physique becomes apparent, making full-sized models a more practical, long-term investment. Additionally, for those seeking advanced features or a higher degree of customization—such as enhanced chokes, sighting systems, or specific camouflage patterns—these alternatives can offer a broader selection, providing the flexibility to meet both current and future hunting demands. This approach ensures that every hunter, regardless of age or size, has access to a shotgun that not only fits their immediate needs but also grows with them, maximizing both performance in the field and overall value.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Savage Arms M301 Single Shot 20/26 MOBC
- Price: $208.99
- Single shot, break action, 26″ barrel, Mossy Oak Bottomland camo, X-Full choke included, synthetic stock, bead sight.
- Stevens 320 Turkey 20GA Pump
- Price: $232.99
- Pump action, 22″ barrel, green synthetic thumbhole stock, X-Full choke, adjustable fiber optic sight, 5+1 capacity.
- Mossberg Maverick 88 Bantam 20/26 BL/Camo
- Price: $261.99
- Pump action, 22″ barrel, camouflage synthetic stock, Modified choke, dual bead sights, 5+1 capacity.
- Escort Field Hunter Turkey Pump Shotgun 20GA
- Price: $301.99
- Pump action, 22″ barrel, Mossy Oak Bottomland stock, extended turkey chokes, rubber recoil pad, fiber optic sights.
- Winchester SXP Turkey 20GA 3″
- Price: $399.00
- Pump action, 24″ barrel, camouflage synthetic stock, Invector-Plus Extra-Full Long Beard choke, TruGlo fiber optic sight, 4+1 capacity.
Mid-Range Options
- Mossberg 500 Turkey Shotgun 20 GA 3″
- Price: $523.99
- Pump action, 22″ barrel, Mossy Oak Greenleaf camo, adjustable fiber optic sights, X-Factor ported choke, 5+1 capacity.
- Mossberg SA-20 Turkey Shotgun 20 GA 3″
- Price: $589.99
- Semi-auto, 22″ barrel, Mossy Oak Greenleaf camo, extended turkey choke, Dead Ringer Beard Buster sight.
- American Tactical Inc Turkey Fowl 20/22″ BL/Camo
- Price: $608.99
- Break open action, 22″ vent rib barrel, Mossy Oak Bottomland camo, XX-Full and Modified chokes, fiber optic front sight.
Premium Options
- Retay Gordion Compact Shotgun 20 GA 3″
- Price: $899.00
- Semi-auto, 24″ barrel, Mossy Oak New Bottomland camo, Marapro chokes (C,F,IC,IM,M), Truglo fiber optic front sight.
- Retay Gordion Turkey Shotgun 20 GA 3″
- Price: $949.00
- Semi-auto, 22″ barrel, Mossy Oak Obsession camo, Marapro chokes, Truglo fiber optic front sight.
Each option presents unique features catering to different preferences, from the simplicity and affordability of single-shot models to the enhanced capabilities of semi-automatic shotguns with advanced sighting and camo patterns for stealth and performance in the field. Whether you’re equipping a young hunter stepping up to a full-sized model or seeking the pinnacle of turkey hunting technology, there’s a shotgun in this list to meet every need.