Can a 22 Kill a Turkey?
The .22 long rifle is one of the most popular and widely used cartridges in the world. Its low recoil, inexpensive ammunition, and inherent accuracy make it an excellent choice for everything from target shooting to small game hunting. But when it comes to larger animals like turkeys many hunters wonder if a .22 has enough power to ethically harvest them. In this article we’ll take an in-depth look at using a .22 for turkey hunting.
Understanding .22 Ballistics
To determine if a .22 can kill a turkey, we first need to understand its ballistics. Most .22 LR rounds drive a 30-40 grain bullet at velocities between 1000 and 1400 feet per second. This results in muzzle energies of less than 150 foot-pounds.
While suitable for small game, these ballistics are considerably less powerful than larger hunting rounds. A standard 12 gauge turkey load driving a 1 1⁄4 ounce load of #4 shot produces over 1700 fps and 2500+ ft-lbs of energy in comparison. Clearly, the .22 LR is playing at a ballistic disadvantage.
Shot Placement is Critical
Despite its low power, a well-placed 22 LR bullet to a vital area can still kill a turkey quickly. However, shot placement is far more critical than with a shotgun or larger caliber rifle.
The most effective points of aim are the head and neck. A precise hit to the turkey’s brain or spine will be lethal. But these areas present a very small target, demanding exceptional shooting skill. A missed or slightly off-target shot can wound the bird and make recovery unlikely.
The difference in bullet energy also means impacts to other areas may not be immediately fatal. Shots to the body that do not damage the heart and lungs may wound rather than anchor the bird. And hitting the large wing bones of a turkey can easily deflect lightweight .22 bullets.
Overall, the margin for error when using a .22 LR on turkeys is extremely slim. Marksmanship and shot selection must be precise. One poorly placed round can mean a lost bird.
Hunting Regulations
Before considering using a .22 for turkeys, hunters need to consult their state hunting regulations. Most states prohibit using rifles and restrict legal methods to shotguns and archery gear. A handful of states do allow rimfire rifles, but the majority do not. It’s critical to know your local laws.
Even where legal, the use of .22 rifles on turkeys remains highly controversial. Proponents argue that an accurately placed headshot is humane when executed properly. But detractors consider the .22 LR underpowered and therefore unethical for turkeys. The debate continues on.
Final Considerations
While dispatching a turkey with a .22 LR is certainly possible, most hunters will be better served by a 20 or 12 gauge shotgun. The increased shot spread and energy offer more flexibility. A .22 requires exceptional precision and shot selection to humanely harvest a turkey.
For those determined to use a rimfire, stepping up to the .22 Magnum or .17 HMR improves the odds. Their higher velocities deliver significantly more energy on target. But no matter the caliber, responsible shot placement should remain the top priority.
Ultimately, the final decision comes down to the individual hunter’s comfort level and shooting abilities. With practice and discipline, a .22 can take turkeys. But hunters should carefully consider if they can deliver consistent clean kills before bringing a low-powered rimfire into the turkey woods.
Turkey hunt with .22 long rifle, San Saba Texas, 2018
FAQ
Where is the best place to shoot a turkey with a 22?
Can you go turkey hunting with a 22?
What animals can a 22 kill?
Can a .22 pellet gun kill a turkey?
Can you shoot a Turkey with a 22 shotgun?
Another risk that comes with shooting a turkey with a .22 is that you may not kill the turkey in a clean manner. You may not even kill it at all and wind up wounding or crippling the bird. A .22 is meant for shooting targets and small game like rabbits and squirrels.
Is it illegal to hunt a Turkey with a rifle?
In many states, hunting turkeys with a .22 is illegal. There are only a few states where hunting turkeys with a rifle is allowed, and even then it is often only during the fall season. Aside from it being illegal in many areas, there are other reasons why it isn’t the best idea to hunt turkey with the rifle from your boyhood. 1. It Might Be Illegal
Should you use a shotgun or a rifle to hunt turkeys?
Many people use shotguns to hunt turkeys, but once you use a .22, you will learn there is such satisfaction in it that you won’t want to turn back. Hunting with a rifle allows you to have more precision than with a shotgun, and it allows you to take the bird cleanly.
Can a Turkey eat a shot?
Unless a turkey is less than 20 yards away, much of the shot will not fully penetrate or find the organs it must to bring on a quick, clean kill. It’s just as well since the breasts, which the shot must pass through, also provide the primary meat a hunter will eat, and nobody wants to eat meat riddled with tooth-breaking shot.