Testing the Duckbill Choke with Matt Haught

Published on September 11, 2020
Duration: 14:18

This guide details how to test the effectiveness of a duckbill choke on a 12 Gauge shotgun. It covers selecting appropriate ammunition, establishing baseline patterns with a standard choke, and evaluating the horizontal oval spread produced by the duckbill choke with various buckshot sizes at different distances. The analysis highlights the choke's design for specific tactical scenarios and its limitations for civilian use.

Quick Summary

The duckbill choke flattens a 12 Gauge shotgun's pattern into a horizontal oval, ideal for hitting moving targets in jungle warfare. While effective with #4 buckshot, larger pellets yield inconsistent results. It's not recommended for home defense due to its wide spread and collateral damage risk.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Equipment
  2. 01:00Duckbill Choke History and Design
  3. 02:19Ammunition Selection
  4. 03:2610-Yard Pattern Testing
  5. 08:4225-Yard Testing and Tactical Application

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a duckbill choke and how does it work?

A duckbill choke is a specialized shotgun attachment that flattens the shot pattern into a horizontal oval. This design was intended to increase the hit probability on moving targets in environments like jungle warfare, as demonstrated in tests with 12 Gauge shotguns.

What type of ammunition is best for a duckbill choke?

Duckbill chokes are most effective with smaller pellet sizes like #4 buckshot. Larger pellets, such as #1 or 00 buckshot, tend to deform less predictably, resulting in less consistent and less desirable oval patterns.

Is a duckbill choke suitable for home defense?

No, a duckbill choke is generally not recommended for civilian home defense. Its wide horizontal spread, while tactically advantageous in specific military scenarios, poses a significant risk of collateral damage in a typical home environment.

What were the historical issues with early duckbill chokes?

Early duckbill chokes, developed for use in Vietnam, often suffered from durability problems and heat-treatment issues. Modern reproductions aim to correct these flaws, ensuring reliable function without cracking under stress.

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