27% yield on turkey (I was burned again)

[BC Buck]

I had family coming over for thanksgiving. Thought smoke two 11LB birds so have plenty of leftovers. Dad said have more coming than expected but should have plenty. Cleaned first bird with no waste and weighed yield. 2LB white meat and 1 LB dark. WOW we are going to be short. Deboned second butterball and exact same yield. Im documenting 27% yield out of turkey so not short next year. Read better to cook two 10ld birds instead of one 20lb bird. Next year smoking two 15 LB birds and hop can get on smoker at same time.

 

[Elf@shore]

I had family coming over for thanksgiving. Thought smoke two 11LB birds so have plenty of leftovers. Dad said have more coming than expected but should have plenty. Cleaned first bird with no waste and weighed yield. 2LB white meat and 1 LB dark. WOW we are going to be short. Deboned second butterball and exact same yield. Im documenting 27% yield out of turkey so not short next year. Read better to cook two 10ld birds instead of one 20lb bird. Next year smoking two 15 LB birds and hop can get on smoker at same time.

Birds for Family:
I would search for another brand , not BB? Its semi processed, more than a brine, as far I am concerned. Self brining will give you more control and better results.
Even store brands might be better, depending on where you shop and can Afford?
Not sure what is available in yur area?
Get fresh birds if possible.

Ideally I would try to find this size:
13 to 15 lbs max.
Try to find a bird that is very wide ,to have a nice meaty breast. avoid a huge height bird.
The younger birds are not yet developed and the larger birds have a larger bone structure, and tougher meat.. Been doing T days cooks for over 40 yrs.
Lastly , adding liquid will help shrinkage lost. yielding more meat.
Drip pan or separate pan with apple juice/water
Hope this helps ?
ELF