Description
Winchester brought the sub-gauge revolution to turkey hunting with these Long Beard Tungsten rounds. Loaded with 17 grams per cubic centimeter tungsten-alloy pellets, they're denser than lead by 56 percent, which means each pellet hits harder and retains energy better downrange. The #9 shot size fits more pellets into each shell than larger lead shot would, creating a denser, tighter pattern that connects with the kill zone more reliably.
What makes these shells work is the combination of tungsten density and a buffered payload design. The buffering helps pellets flow smoothly through your choke without deforming, which reduces flyers and produces consistent patterns shot after shot. At 1150 fps, they deliver the velocity needed to put those pellets on target with authority, especially when paired with a quality turkey choke.
The 28 Gauge Advantage with Winchester Long Beard Tungsten
The 28 gauge used to be strictly an upland gun, but tungsten changed all that. A box of five rounds puts roughly 575 pellets of #9 tungsten into the air per shell. By comparison, traditional lead loads in 12 gauge need much larger shot sizes to penetrate effectively, which means fewer total pellets downrange. With these Winchester rounds, you're stacking the odds in your favor at the ranges where most turkeys go down, typically 30-40 yards.
Why Pattern Testing Matters Before Opening Day
Tungsten patterns differently than lead, and your specific gun and choke combination need to be verified. Grab your patterning board and shoot these shells at 40 yards through whatever turkey choke you're planning to use. You're looking for at least 100 pellet impacts in a 10-inch circle. Once you confirm your setup shoots right, you can trust it when the moment comes. These shells are designed to work with tight turkey chokes specifically designed for tungsten shot, though they'll pattern well through most quality turkey chokes.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 28 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3 inches
- Shot Size: #9
- Shot Type: 17g/cc Tungsten Alloy
- Shot Weight: 1-1/2 ounces
- Muzzle Velocity: 1150 fps
- Rounds Per Box: 5
- Boxes Per Case: 10
- Lead Free: Yes
- Pellet Count: Approximately 575 pellets per round
- Reloadable: Yes, Boxer primed
- Manufacturer: Winchester
- Model: Long Beard TS17
- Manufacturer Part Number: LBT2839
- UPC: 020892029910
What’s Included
- 5 rounds of Winchester Long Beard Tungsten TS17 ammunition
Frequently Asked Questions
What choke should I use with these Winchester 28 gauge tungsten shells?
These shells pattern best with tight turkey chokes specifically designed for tungsten shot, typically .660 constriction or tighter. Pattern test your exact gun and choke combination to confirm performance. Tungsten flows smoothly through quality turkey chokes and generally doesn't require the extra-full constrictions that traditional lead loads sometimes need.
How far can I ethically hunt with the Long Beard Tungsten TS17 in 28 gauge?
With the right choke and setup, most hunters see effective patterns out to 35-40 yards. The key is patterning your specific shotgun to confirm you have at least 100 pellet strikes in a 10-inch circle at your intended shooting distance. Tungsten's density means even a 28 gauge can deliver lethal penetration at those ranges, but your personal pattern results determine your maximum comfortable distance.
Are these shells reloadable?
Yes, these are Boxer-primed and can be reloaded, though the cost of tungsten shot means reloading may not always be cost-effective compared to buying factory ammunition. Always verify that your specific reloading equipment is rated for tungsten before attempting to reload these shells.
Why use 28 gauge tungsten instead of 12 gauge lead for turkey hunting?
The tungsten density gives you more pellets with better energy retention than lead in the same size shell, so a 28 gauge becomes genuinely effective rather than a compromise gun. You get a lightweight, handy shotgun with manageable recoil while still delivering patterns capable of ethical kills at typical turkey ranges. For hunters who value carrying less weight through the woods, that's a real advantage.





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