A surprising number of hunters call turkeys into range each spring then miss the apparently easy target or spook the bird while trying to shoot. Here are some tips that will help you make the shot and bring home a gobbler this season.

First, be sure you know where your turkey gun shoots; many shotguns shoot nowhere near where they're pointed. One of my guns, for instance, would hit a turkey in the head only if I held the bead on the bird's toes. Last spring I fitted the barrel with adjustable sights and turned it into a fine gobbler gun. Sights will also help you keep your cheek down on the stock and prevent you from lifting you head and shooting over the bird.

Pay attention to your setup in the woods. Don't sit in brush where you can't move without hitting branches. Instead, set up in the open with your back to a wide tree so your left shoulder (if you're right handed) points in the direction you believe the turkey will come. Rest the forearm on your knees, tuck the butt under your shoulder, and you can sit comfortably for hours yet still be ready to shoot with a minimum of movement.

Practice shooting with your opposite hand. You'll find you can cover a much wider arc with much less movement if you're able to shoot ambidextrously. For years I've practiced shooting right-handed (I'm a lefty) and last spring when a tom came in 180 degrees away from the direction I expected, I was able to switch shoulders and cover him easily without having to shift my whole body around.

Take the first good shot the turkey offers once he's within sure killing range of your gun. Turkeys don't always march right over to the source of the call; sometimes they'll come in, look around, then wander off if they don't see a hen. I've blown several good chances over the years by waiting for a turkey already in range to come even closer.

Finally, aim at the neck. If you aim at the head, you'll waste the top half of your pattern. Better to hold midway between the head and body and remember not to shoot at the bird when his neck is tucked close to his body as he struts.