Product Overview
The Winchester Longbeard XR 12 Gauge 3.5" #5 Turkey Load redefines what hunters can expect from a traditional lead shotshell, delivering devastating pattern density and knockdown power at distances once reserved for premium tungsten loads.
- Exclusive Shot-Lok Technology locks pellets in resin to prevent deformation during firing
- Twice the pellets in a 10" circle at 60 yards versus standard turkey loads
- 2-ounce payload of #5 shot delivers deep penetration on big toms
- 1,200 fps muzzle velocity ensures flat trajectory and reliable terminal performance
- 3.5" shell maximizes pellet count for extended effective range
- Performance rivals heavier-than-lead loads at a significantly lower cost per box
Who This Is For
The Winchester Longbeard XR is built for serious turkey hunters who consistently work birds at the edge of comfortable range — 40 to 60 yards — and need a lead-based load that performs like an exotic-metal shell without the exotic price tag. It's equally suited to hunters running tight full or extra-full turkey chokes who want the tightest possible patterns at long distances.
Specifications
| Brand | Winchester Ammunition |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 3.5 Inch |
| Shot Size | #5 |
| Payload Weight | 2 oz (875 grains) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1,200 fps |
| Shot Material | Lead (Shot-Lok Resin Encased) |
| Wad Type | Shot-Lok Resin Wad |
| Effective Range | Up to 60 yards |
| Rounds Per Box | 10 |
| Use | Wild Turkey Hunting |
| Part Number | STLB12L5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What choke constriction works best with Winchester Longbeard XR?
Winchester recommends using a full or extra-full turkey choke with Longbeard XR for optimal pattern density at long range. Avoid extremely tight aftermarket chokes with constrictions below 0.650", as heavy lead payloads can generate dangerous pressure spikes. Always verify your choke is rated for lead shot and consult the choke manufacturer's guidelines before shooting.
How does Shot-Lok Technology improve patterns over standard turkey loads?
Shot-Lok Technology fills the space between pellets inside the wad column with a specialized resin that solidifies around the shot. When the shell fires, the resin shatters, but the pellets travel through the barrel with far less contact against each other and the bore. This dramatically reduces pellet deformation — a leading cause of fliers and open patterns — resulting in twice the pellet count inside a 10-inch circle at 60 yards compared to conventional lead turkey loads.
Is Winchester Longbeard XR a good alternative to tungsten or TSS turkey loads?
For hunters seeking longer-range performance without the premium cost of tungsten or Heavyweight TSS loads, Longbeard XR is one of the strongest lead-based options on the market. While tungsten loads carry more energy per pellet due to higher density, Longbeard XR compensates with a heavier payload and superior pattern uniformity, making it highly effective on turkeys at ranges up to 60 yards — at a fraction of the price.
