Types of shotgun chokes

Shotguns typically utilize various choke types to control the spread of shot pellets as they exit the barrel. Chokes are essentially constrictions at the muzzle end of the shotgun barrel that affect the shot pattern. Let's explore the most common types of shotgun chokes:

1. Cylinder Choke: The cylinder choke has no constriction, allowing the shot pellets to spread rapidly. It provides a wide shot pattern, making it suitable for close-range shooting, such as home defense or shooting at fast-moving targets.

2. Improved Cylinder (IC) Choke: The improved cylinder choke has a slightly tighter constriction than the cylinder choke. It offers a moderate spreading of shot pellets, making it versatile for various applications like trap shooting, skeet shooting, or hunting small game at short to medium distances.

3. Modified Choke: The modified choke offers a tighter constriction than the improved cylinder choke. It provides a medium-range shot pattern, making it useful for general hunting purposes, including upland birds, waterfowl, and clay target sports.

4. Improved Modified (IM) Choke: The improved modified choke has a more pronounced constriction than the modified choke. It produces a medium-tight shot pattern, making it suitable for longer-range hunting or shooting at the range.

5. Full Choke: The full choke has a tight constriction, offering a dense shot pattern with minimal spread. It is commonly used for longer-range shooting, such as waterfowl hunting or shooting at distant targets. Due to its tight pattern, it requires precise aiming at shorter distances.

6. Extra Full Choke: The extra full choke has an even tighter constriction than the full choke. It provides an extremely narrow shot pattern, primarily used for specialized applications such as turkey hunting or long-range trap shooting.

7. Skeet Choke: The skeet choke is specifically designed for skeet shooting, which involves shooting at clay targets at close to medium ranges. It provides a wide and even shot pattern, allowing quick target acquisition.

8. Cylinder Bore/No Choke: Some shotguns feature a barrel with no choke, commonly referred to as a cylinder bore. It provides an unrestricted shot pattern, which can be advantageous for shooting at very close ranges or when utilizing specialty loads.

It's important to note that different shotgun manufacturers might have variations in choke constrictions, so it's always advisable to refer to the specific markings or descriptions provided by the manufacturer for optimal performance and safety. Additionally, some shotguns may support interchangeable choke tubes, enabling you to switch between different choke types to suit your shooting needs.

Written by Anthony Diaz, gunsmith, East Tennessee Gunsmith Services