After the Test: My Review of Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS 12 Gauge 1 5/8 oz 3in 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition 123TSS7 34% Off
For years, I’ve been chasing the elusive gobbler, and in that pursuit, I’ve learned that reliable ammunition isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a necessity. My search for the ultimate turkey load led me to the Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS 12 Gauge 1 5/8 oz 3in 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition 123TSS7 34% Off. This particular load promises dense patterns, deep penetration, and impressive long-range performance, all thanks to its 18 g/cc tungsten shot. My previous experience with Fiocchi has been positive, so I was eager to see if this specialized turkey load lived up to its reputation.
The scenario that prompted this dive into premium turkey loads was a particularly frustrating season where my usual ammunition just wasn’t cutting it at longer distances. I needed something with more punch and tighter patterning to ensure clean, ethical shots on wary birds. I considered other tungsten loads from different manufacturers, but Fiocchi’s reputation for quality and the specific specifications of this load made it stand out.
Upon receiving the shells, my initial impression was one of quality. The casing felt robust, and the attention to detail in the crimp suggested a meticulously manufactured product. There was a distinct sense of confidence that these shells were built for a purpose.
Real-World Testing: Putting Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS 12 Gauge 1 5/8 oz 3in 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition 123TSS7 34% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I took these Fiocchi shells to my local shooting range, specifically set up for patterning. My goal was to test them at various distances typical for turkey hunting, from 30 to 60 yards, using my trusted 12-gauge shotgun. I was aiming for consistent, dense patterns that would guarantee ethical kills.
The performance in these controlled conditions was immediately striking. The patterns were remarkably tight, even at the extended ranges. I experienced no cycling issues whatsoever, with each shell feeding and ejecting flawlessly through my semi-automatic shotgun.
Ease of use with this ammunition is, of course, entirely dependent on your firearm. However, from a loading and firing perspective, these shells are as straightforward as any other 12-gauge load. There was no discernible difference in recoil compared to other heavy 3-inch loads I’ve used, which was a welcome surprise given the density of the tungsten shot.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of several hunting trips and practice sessions, these loads have held up exceptionally well. I’ve carried them in dusty field conditions and experienced mild morning dew without any degradation in performance. The integrity of the shells remained constant, with no swelling or damage to the casings.
Durability is less of a concern with ammunition in the traditional sense, as each shell is a single-use item. However, the manufacturing quality suggests that if stored properly, these shells will maintain their ballistic integrity for a long time. I haven’t noticed any loss in pattern density or velocity in the shells I’ve used over the past season.
Maintenance for ammunition is simply proper storage; keeping them dry and at a stable temperature. I keep my ammunition in sealed ammo cans, which I highly recommend for any serious shooter, especially for specialized loads like this. Compared to some cheaper lead loads I’ve used in the past, which could sometimes show slight imperfections, these Fiocchi shells feel consistently superior.
Breaking Down the Features of Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS 12 Gauge 1 5/8 oz 3in 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition 123TSS7 34% Off
Specifications
This ammunition features a 12 Gauge shell length of 3 inches, loaded with 1 5/8 ounces of #7 shot. The shot material is 18 g/cc tungsten, providing significantly higher density than lead. Muzzle velocity is rated at 1200 ft/s.
The 18 g/cc tungsten shot is the standout specification here. Tungsten’s density means each pellet retains more energy downrange, leading to deeper penetration and the ability to maintain lethal velocity at greater distances. The 1 5/8 oz payload is substantial, delivering a high number of pellets for dense patterns. The #7 shot size offers an excellent balance between pellet count and the energy required for turkey heads and vital organs.
In comparison to standard lead loads, this tungsten load offers a dramatic increase in downrange energy and pattern density at typical turkey hunting ranges. A typical lead load of similar weight might have a much lower pellet count, or if it has a similar count, it will likely lack the energy retention of these tungsten projectiles.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this ammunition is to provide ethical, long-range turkey harvesting, and it excels at this. The patterns produced are incredibly consistent and tight, even when pushed to the limits of what is considered ethical for turkey hunting. This consistency translates directly into improved effectiveness.
A significant strength is the deep penetration achieved by the tungsten pellets. This ensures that even at extended ranges, the shot has the energy to ethically dispatch a turkey. The dense patterns mean fewer cripples and more clean kills. One minor point to note, which is common with high-density shot, is that patterning is crucial to find the optimal choke for your specific firearm.
For its intended application, this ammunition meets and often exceeds expectations. The performance at range is genuinely impressive and instills confidence when facing those difficult shots. It truly delivers on the promise of a premium turkey load.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of ammunition is intrinsically linked to its performance. Fiocchi’s shells feature a clean, robust plastic hull that holds its shape well. The crimp is well-executed, ensuring proper sealing and consistent shot release.
The overall feel of these shells is one of high quality. There are no rough edges or visible manufacturing defects. The branding and markings are clear and professional, indicating a product made with care.
The ergonomic aspect of ammunition is subtle; it’s about how it performs when fired. The recoil, while present due to the heavy payload, is manageable and feels consistent. This predictability is key for maintaining accuracy on follow-up shots, should they be necessary.
Durability & Maintenance
As single-use items, durability for ammunition is more about shelf life and resistance to environmental factors. Fiocchi’s reputation suggests these shells will maintain their performance characteristics when stored properly. I haven’t encountered any duds or performance degradation in any of the rounds I’ve fired.
Maintenance is, as mentioned, primarily about proper storage to prevent moisture and extreme temperature fluctuations. Keeping these specialized loads in a dry, climate-controlled environment will ensure they are ready when needed. I have not experienced any failures with these rounds, which speaks to their consistent manufacturing.
The true measure of durability for ammunition is its ability to perform identically every single time. This is where the Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS load shines; it delivers predictable, high-level performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
Ammunition itself typically doesn’t come with accessories, and this Fiocchi load is no exception. However, the “customization” comes in how it interacts with your firearm and choke system. Finding the right choke tube for your specific shotgun is paramount to maximizing the potential of these tungsten loads.
Many modern shotguns designed for waterfowl or turkey hunting offer interchangeable choke tubes, allowing shooters to dial in the perfect pattern. Investing in a good quality turkey choke, often a .665 or .670 constriction for 12-gauge, is highly recommended to pair with this ammunition. This allows you to truly harness the density and consistency of the tungsten shot.
While there are no direct accessories for the ammunition itself, selecting the right choke tube is a critical accessory for performance optimization. This synergy is where the true “customization” lies for the end-user.
Pros and Cons of Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS 12 Gauge 1 5/8 oz 3in 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition 123TSS7 34% Off
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: The 18 g/cc tungsten shot delivers incredibly tight patterns at ranges where other loads begin to fail.
- Superior Downrange Energy: Tungsten’s density ensures pellets retain lethal energy and deep penetration far beyond traditional lead loads.
- Long-Range Lethality: This ammunition is specifically designed for ethical kills at extended turkey hunting distances.
- Consistent Performance: Fiocchi’s manufacturing quality ensures reliable ignition and predictable shot deployment.
- High Pellet Count: The 1 5/8 oz payload with #7 shot provides ample coverage for vital head and neck shots.
Cons
- Premium Price Point: As with most high-performance tungsten loads, these shells come with a significant cost per round.
- Choke Sensitivity: Achieving optimal patterns may require specific choke tube selection for your shotgun.
- Limited Availability: Specialized loads like this may not be stocked by all retailers.
Who Should Buy Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS 12 Gauge 1 5/8 oz 3in 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition 123TSS7 34% Off?
This ammunition is ideal for the serious turkey hunter who prioritizes ethical, long-range shots and demands the absolute best performance from their equipment. If you frequently hunt in open country where shots over 40 yards are common, or if you simply want the confidence that comes with superior terminal ballistics, these shells are an excellent choice. They are particularly well-suited for hunters using modern shotguns with interchangeable choke tubes.
Individuals who are on a very strict budget or only hunt at very close ranges might find less compelling reasons to invest in this premium load. For those hunters, more traditional and less expensive lead loads might suffice. Additionally, if you are not willing to experiment with choke tubes to find the optimal pattern for your firearm, you may not fully realize the potential of this ammunition.
For those serious about turkey hunting, I would strongly recommend pairing this ammunition with a high-quality turkey choke tube. A constriction in the .665 to .670 range is often a good starting point for 12-gauge shotguns with 3-inch barrels firing tungsten loads. Ensuring your firearm is properly sighted in with this specific load is also a crucial step to maximize its effectiveness.
Conclusion on Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS 12 Gauge 1 5/8 oz 3in 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition 123TSS7 34% Off
The Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS 12 Gauge 1 5/8 oz 3in 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition 123TSS7 34% Off is, without question, a top-tier turkey hunting load. Its performance in terms of pattern density, penetration, and downrange energy retention is exceptional. The investment in tungsten shot is clearly justified by the improved ballistic capabilities it offers for the discerning turkey hunter.
Considering the specialized nature of the materials and the performance gains, the price point, while high, feels justified for the effectiveness it delivers. This is not ammunition for casual plinking; it is a tool for serious hunters who demand the utmost reliability and performance when it matters most.
I wholeheartedly recommend these shells to any dedicated turkey hunter looking to elevate their effectiveness in the field. If you are willing to invest in quality ammunition and properly pair it with your shotgun, you will be rewarded with consistently dense patterns and the confidence of ethical shot placement at extended ranges.