The 835 Ulti-Mag, particularly its turkey-specific configurations, has earned a strong reputation among hunters. This post will delve into the features, performance, and overall suitability of the 835 Ulti-Mag for turkey hunting. We'll explore its strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide if it's the right shotgun for your next hunt.
Understanding the 835 Ulti-Mag's Design for Turkey Hunting
The Remington 835 Ulti-Mag, originally designed as a versatile hunting shotgun, has been adapted and favored by many turkey hunters. Its success stems from several key design features optimized for this challenging pursuit:
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Large Bore: The .835 bore (hence the name) is significantly larger than standard 12-gauge barrels, allowing for the use of larger shot loads and higher shot payloads. This translates to more effective patterns and increased lethality at longer ranges—crucial factors in turkey hunting where ethical shots demand precision.
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Superior Payload Capacity: The increased bore diameter means you can effectively use heavier loads and larger shot sizes, increasing your chances of a clean kill. This higher payload capacity also contributes to a harder-hitting shot.
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Versatility: While excellent for turkey hunting, the 835 Ulti-Mag isn't solely limited to this purpose. Its versatility extends to waterfowl, deer hunting (with slugs), and other applications, making it a potentially valuable addition to any hunter's arsenal.
Performance and Ballistics: What to Expect
The 835 Ulti-Mag's performance in turkey hunting hinges on several factors, most notably:
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Ammunition Selection: Choosing the right ammunition is paramount. Experimentation with different loads and shot sizes is essential to find the optimal combination that produces the tightest, most consistent patterns for your specific barrel.
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Choke Tube Selection: Different choke tubes impact the shot pattern's density and spread. A full or extra-full choke is commonly preferred for turkey hunting with the 835 Ulti-Mag to maximize shot concentration at longer ranges.
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Barrel Length: While not directly related to the gun's model, the barrel length significantly impacts the pattern's performance. Longer barrels generally produce tighter patterns, but shorter barrels offer greater maneuverability in dense cover.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the 835 Ulti-Mag for Turkey Hunting
Like any firearm, the 835 Ulti-Mag offers advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages:
- Hard-Hitting: The large bore and ability to use larger shot loads result in a harder-hitting shot, improving lethality and reducing the chance of wounding the bird.
- Versatility: As mentioned, its usefulness extends beyond turkey hunting.
- Reliable: Remington has a long history of producing reliable firearms. The 835 Ulti-Mag generally maintains a good reputation in this regard.
Disadvantages:
- Recoil: The larger bore and heavy loads contribute to noticeable recoil, which can be uncomfortable for some shooters. Consider recoil pads and proper shooting techniques to mitigate this.
- Weight: The shotgun's substantial weight can lead to fatigue during long hunts.
- Availability: Depending on your location and time of year, finding specific parts or ammunition for the 835 Ulti-Mag might be more challenging compared to more contemporary models.
Conclusion: Is the 835 Ulti-Mag Right for You?
The Remington 835 Ulti-Mag remains a viable and effective option for turkey hunting. Its large bore, high payload capacity, and reputation for reliability are significant draws. However, the substantial recoil and weight require careful consideration. Before purchasing, it's crucial to shoulder the firearm, test-fire it (if possible) with various ammunition types, and assess if its characteristics align with your shooting style and physical capabilities. Remember, the right shotgun is a personal choice; the 835 Ulti-Mag represents one strong contender in the world of turkey hunting shotguns.
