Extra Full Choke = BAD?

Published on February 19, 2025
Duration: 1:15

This video explains that over-constricting lead shot through a shotgun choke tube can negatively impact pattern performance. Excessive constriction can deform the lead pellets, disrupting their aerodynamics and causing them to fly erratically, leading to flyers and a less effective pattern. The speaker recommends patterning your shotgun with different choke tubes and ammunition to find the optimal combination for your setup.

Quick Summary

Using an excessively tight shotgun choke tube with lead shot can cause pellet deformation, disrupting aerodynamics and leading to erratic flight and 'flyers.' This over-constriction can negatively impact your pattern performance. It's recommended to pattern your shotgun with different chokes and ammunition to find the optimal combination for your setup.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Over-Constriction of Lead Shot
  2. 00:18Shotgun Mechanics: Wad and Shot
  3. 00:29Choke Tube Function and Over-Constriction
  4. 00:46Pellet Deformation and Aerodynamics
  5. 01:04Recommendation: Pattern Your Shotgun

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when lead shot is over-constricted by a shotgun choke tube?

Over-constricting lead shot through a tight choke tube can cause the pellets to deform. This deformation disrupts their aerodynamic shape, leading to erratic flight patterns and 'flyers' in your shot group, ultimately reducing effectiveness.

Does a tighter choke tube always increase a shotgun's effective range?

No, contrary to popular belief, an excessively tight choke tube can actually harm your shotgun's pattern performance. Over-constriction can deform lead shot, causing it to fly erratically and reducing the density of the pattern downrange.

Why is pellet deformation a problem for shotgun patterns?

When lead shot pellets deform, they are no longer perfect spheres. This loss of aerodynamic symmetry causes them to fly erratically, creating unpredictable 'flyers' in the shot pattern and diminishing the overall effectiveness of the shot shell at range.

What is the recommended way to find the best choke tube for your shotgun?

The best approach is to go to the range and pattern your shotgun with your chosen ammunition and various choke tubes. You might be surprised to find that a less restrictive choke tube provides a better, more consistent pattern than the tightest option.

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