We’re just getting through the holidays and already talk is turning to spring turkey hunts, which may be a few months away, but among those who pursue the longbeards, it is never too soon to start planning for the upcoming season.
Already, Mossberg has announced a couple of new shotguns to its 2023 lineup. According to a recent news release, “Mossberg International, Inc. is importing three new turkey guns to expand the SA-Series of autoloaders: fully camouflaged SA-20 and SA-28 Turkey Pistol Grip versions and a SA-20 Turkey with camo-covered, classic stock and forend.”
According to Mossberg, they feature Mossy Oak® Greenleaf™ camo.
“Small-gauge shotguns combined with today’s denser, more effective shotshells have extended ranges for these sub-gauges and grown in popularity,” Mossberg says. “And thanks to their lightweight, soft-shooting and quick-handling qualities, these autoloaders are surprisingly effective on longbeards and a pleasure to carry in the field.”
SA-Series autoloaders begin with a gas operating system that vents excess gases, reducing recoil for the shooter and lessening stress on components for smooth, reliable operation. Chambered in 20 gauge (3-inch) and 28 gauge (2.75-inch), all models feature a five-round total capacity and 22-inch vent rib barrels with the versatility of an interchangeable choke tube system (Extended Turkey choke tube included). Barrels are topped with fiber optic Ghost Ring sights and receivers feature a Picatinny rail for ease of adding optics. Other standard features include a cross-bolt safety; extended charging handle; and easy-load elevator, according to Mossberg’s announcement.
Mossy Oak’s Greenleaf pattern offers silhouette concealment with its blend of dirt, bark, moss, and oak sapling elements. Whether you are hunting the hardwoods of the southeast or the rugged terrain of west Texas, Greenleaf keeps you from getting busted by a wary longbeard. Here are some specifics:
SA-20 Turkey Pistol Grip (75799) – This autoloader is equipped with a compact pistol grip stock (12.75-inch length-of-pull); full camo-coverage with Mossy Oak Greenleaf on stock, forend, receiver, and 22-inch barrel. Target acquisition is enhanced with the combination of a fiber optic front sight and adjustable Ghost Ring rear sight. Completing this package is top-mounted rail; Extended Turkey choke tube; and front and rear sling swivel studs. MSRP: $902
SA-20 Turkey (75801) – This version features a camouflaged forend and classically-styled stock with 14.25-inch length-of-pull; 22-inch barrel with Extended Turkey choke tube; fiber optic front sight and adjustable Ghost Ring rear sight; and sling swivel studs. A top-mounted rail provides for ease of adding an optic. MSRP: $816
SA-28 Turkey Pistol Grip (75802) – Looking for a low-recoiling option, this SA-28 features a pistol grip-style stock with 12.75-inch length-of-pull with Mossy Oak Greenleaf camo coverage on the stock, forend, receiver, and barrel. Fiber optic front sight and adjustable Ghost Ring rear sight top the 22-inch barrel. Rounding out this offering is an Extended Turkey choke tube; top-mounted rail; and sling swivel studs. MSRP: $902
For more information on the complete line of SA-20, SA-28 and SA-410 Turkey shotguns, please visit www.mossberg.com.
Meanwhile, in Missouri, the Department of Conservation recently announced its Spring Youth hunt will be held April 1-2, and the regular season runs April 17-May 7.
In Nebraska, according to Outdoor Nebraska, the spring archery season opens March 25, followed by the youth shotgun opener on April 8 and the general season opener April 15.
Up in Michigan, the spring turkey application period runs through Feb. 1, and the spring turkey hunt will run April 22-June 7.
“From Jan. 1 – Feb. 1, you can apply for one limited-quota license valid for a specific spring turkey hunt unit during specific season dates. You must be at least 10 years old to apply. If you’re selected in the drawing, you may then purchase one limited-quota license,” according to the Michigan DNR.
Check with your local wildlife agency for season dates in your state.
