For many people the drumsticks are the best part of the turkey. Their tender juicy meat crispy skin, and bone-in quality make drumsticks a coveted prize at Thanksgiving. But turkey drumstick sizes can vary quite a bit, which leads to confusion over just how much each one weighs on average. This definitive guide will provide key insights into typical turkey drumstick weights.
The Average Weight of a Turkey Drumstick
Most single turkey drumsticks fall in the 8-16 oz range However, weights can range more broadly from 4-24 oz depending on the size of the turkey Here are some general guidelines
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For a small 15 lb turkey, expect drumsticks around 8-12 oz each.
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A 20 lb turkey will produce drumsticks averaging 10-16 oz.
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Larger turkeys over 25 lbs can have drumsticks exceeding 1 lb each, sometimes up to 1.5 lbs.
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When buying packaged drumsticks, most are 10-14 oz. Lighter drumsticks around 8 oz come from smaller turkeys under 12 lbs.
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Jumbo drumsticks over 1 lb usually come from free range heritage breed turkeys
So if you don’t know the size of the original turkey, plan on drumsticks in the 10-14 oz range on average.
Key Factors Influencing Weight
Several factors impact the weight of a turkey drumstick:
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Breed – Heritage turkeys have thicker legs and drumsticks than commercial turkeys.
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Sex – Toms generally have meatier, heavier drumsticks compared to hens.
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Age – Older, mature turkeys produce heavier drumsticks than younger birds.
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Feeding – Free range turkeys develop larger legs from higher protein diets.
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Butchering – Hand-carved drumsticks can weigh more than mass produced legs.
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Packaging – Drumsticks sold with thigh meat will weigh considerably more.
Estimating Drumstick Needs
When calculating how many drumsticks to buy, follow these tips:
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For 4 people, buy 1 lb of drumsticks (2 at 8 oz each)
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For 6-8 people, have 1.5 – 2 lbs of drumsticks (3-4 drumsticks)
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For 10-12 guests, plan on 2.5 – 3 lbs of drumsticks (5-6 drumsticks)
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For 14+ guests, buy 4+ lbs of drumsticks (8+ drumsticks)
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Adjust up for jumbo or heritage breed drumsticks
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Buy extras since drumsticks are often the first to go
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Combine with white and dark meat for balanced flavors
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Allow 8-12 oz of drumstick meat per person
Special Considerations
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Account for 15-20% shrinkage when thawing frozen drumsticks
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Double check weights when purchasing to avoid surprises
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Have backup turkey thighs or wings in case legs run short
So now that you know typical turkey drumstick weights range from 8-16 oz on average, you can confidently plan your holiday meal. Aim for 1-2 drumsticks per person, adjusting for heartier appetites. Then relax, knowing your turkey drumstick supply is under control!
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FAQ
How much does one turkey leg weigh?
How many ounces is an average turkey leg?
How much does a turkey thigh weigh?
How many calories in a whole turkey drumstick?
What size turkey drumsticks do you use?
For the roast turkey drumsticks, I used 12-14 ounce drumsticks, but feel free to use any size that’s available at your local grocery store. Turkey drumsticks (also sold as whole turkey legs) are more widely available during the holidays, but you can also find them year-round, depending on the store.
Are drumsticks a turkey leg?
Drumsticks are known for their rich flavour and tender dark meat. They’re ideal for roasting and serving on special occasions like Thanksgiving. So, while all drumsticks are part of the turkey leg, not all turkey legs are just drumsticks! ARE TURKEY DRUMSTICKS TOUGH?
What are baked turkey drumsticks?
Baked turkey drumsticks make a delicious and family-friendly dinner that’s also great for special occasions. These turkey legs are slowly roasted until the meat falls off the bone, the skin is crispy, meat flavorful and perfectly spiced. They make a great alternative to whole turkey legs or a whole turkey!
Why are turkey drumsticks so tough?
Turkey drumsticks can be tougher compared to other parts of the bird because they contain more connective tissue and are made up of dark meat. Since turkeys use their legs for walking, these muscles are well-developed, which gives the meat its rich flavour but also makes it less tender.
How do you know if a turkey drumstick is cooked?
Check the temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding the bone. This ensures the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat. Let the drumsticks rest. After roasting, let the drumsticks rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Are turkey drumsticks tender?
However, when cooked properly—such as slow roasting, braising, or basting regularly—turkey drumsticks can become tender and juicy. Cooking them at the right temperature and for a sufficient amount of time helps break down the connective tissue, resulting in flavourful, moist meat with a deliciously crispy skin.