Is TSS Worth the Money?

Published on March 22, 2026
Duration: 12:49

This guide details a method for patterning and zeroing turkey hunting ammunition, specifically comparing Federal Premium TSS and Remington Nitro Turkey loads. It emphasizes the importance of adjusting optics for different loads and ranges, drawing on expert instruction to optimize shot placement for ethical turkey hunting. The process involves testing at 25 and 50 yards to evaluate pattern density and effectiveness.

Quick Summary

Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) offers denser patterns than lead turkey loads due to its higher density, allowing smaller pellets to match the weight and penetration of larger lead shot. While TSS costs significantly more ($16/round vs. $1.50/round for lead), it provides superior effectiveness at longer ranges (50+ yards), making it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters seeking ethical takedowns.

Chapters

  1. 00:00TSS vs. Lead Introduction
  2. 00:34Pellet Size and Count
  3. 01:00Cost Comparison
  4. 01:18Patterning Test Overview
  5. 01:34Thompson/Center Encore Features
  6. 02:08Lead Load 25-Yard Test
  7. 02:53Lead Load 25-Yard Pattern
  8. 03:39Optimal Lead Zero 25 Yards
  9. 04:39TSS Pellet Characteristics
  10. 05:18TSS Load 25-Yard Test
  11. 06:18TSS Pattern 25 Yards
  12. 07:4625-Yard Conclusion
  13. 08:16Lead Load 50-Yard Test
  14. 09:00Advancements in Turkey Hunting
  15. 09:28Lead Pattern 50 Yards
  16. 10:30TSS Load 50-Yard Test
  17. 10:55Overall Comparison and Conclusion
  18. 11:3250-Yard Final Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main advantage of Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) compared to lead turkey loads?

TSS allows for smaller pellet sizes (like #7) to achieve the same weight and penetration as larger lead pellets (like #5). This means more pellets can fit into the shot cup, resulting in significantly denser patterns, especially at longer ranges.

How does the cost of TSS ammunition compare to lead turkey loads?

TSS ammunition is considerably more expensive. For example, Federal TSS can cost around $16 per round, while lead loads like Remington Nitro Turkey are approximately $1.50 per round, a more than 10x price difference.

What are the recommended ethical engagement distances for lead and TSS turkey loads?

Lead loads are generally considered effective and ethical up to about 30 yards. TSS loads, due to their superior pattern density and penetration, can be effective and ethical at 50 yards and potentially beyond with proper setup and shot placement.

Why is it important to pattern your shotgun with specific turkey loads?

Patterning ensures you understand how your shotgun and choke combination throws pellets with a specific load. This reveals pellet distribution, density within the vital zone, and the Point of Impact (POI), which is crucial for accurate aiming and ethical hunting.

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