Hi,
My solution, (I only have shot 2 turkeys)
1 dunking in BOILING water a few times, (the point being to get all the feathers hot and wet, not parboil the bird) similar to all Fowl.
(Note: you may wish to do this BEFORE gutting. If you can, then you get the feathers wet, not the body cavity. If you are unable to do in a timely manner, gut the bird first, no big deal)
2 hang bird (Head down) and pluck. Yes it is time consuming. If you have a lopper (Long handled pruning shears) note they work well for neck bones and wing bones. and if you intend to save feathers I would dry pluck those before getting the bird wet.)
3. a torch to get the pin feathers is a great idea. I have used similar ideas on smaller birds. (I don't recall Turkey having pinfeathers...) I suggest use sparingly unless you REALLY like the smell of burnt feathers.
4 Generally I try to soak in water in the fridge for a day or two, change water as needed, however you need two things a pan large enough to hold a turkey, and an understanding spouse to give you room in the fridge.
This does two things, the blood get to soak out, and you get a rest before doing the small stuff.
Freezer wrap I think is what I used to freeze, two layers. No saran wrap.
HTH
Gfey
NOTE: I have had my father put the wild turkey in a smoker with awesome results!
