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  • Post category:Chokes / Remington
  • Post last modified:April 6, 2024
  • Post published:December 8, 2022

Best Remington 870 Choke Review

What is a Remington 870 choke? 😏

It is a device attached to the end of the shotgun barrel of a Remington 870. Its primary function is to constrict the shotgun’s bore, controlling the spread or “pattern” of shot when fired. This enables the shooter to adapt the shotgun to specific hunting or shooting situations, from close-quarters self-defence to long-range waterfowl hunting.

Our Top Pick
Carlson’s 12 Gauge Choke Tubes
Constructed from robust 17-4 stainless steel, Carlson's choke tube boasts exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion and rust. Moreover, its non-ported design serves as a valuable advantage by reducing recoil, making it an ideal choice for extended shooting sessions. This choke tube is expertly tailored for compatibility with Winchester, Mossberg, and Browning systems that utilize standard invector chokes.
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How it works 🧐

It operates by constricting the end of the barrel, creating a narrower pathway for the shot to traverse upon firing. ➡️ As the shot progresses through the constricted area, it undergoes compression, resulting in a more tightly packed mass known as a ‘pattern’.➡️ The extent of this constriction plays a pivotal role in determining the size, density, and effective range of the shotgun.

*️⃣ A tighter constriction yields a smaller yet denser pattern, enabling it to travel greater distances, making it well-suited for long-range hunting pursuits.

*️⃣ Conversely, a looser constriction fosters a wider and less dense pattern, rendering it optimal for close-range scenarios where wide coverage is desired.

Features 🤠

First and foremost, it demonstrates a high degree of adaptability for differing shooting contexts, facilitated by varying degrees of constriction. ☑️ This adaptability allows the shooter to modify the spread of the shot, making it suitable for an array of hunting and shooting scenarios.

One salient feature is its capability to generate a tightly packed pattern of shot, due to a higher degree of constriction. ☑️ This enables the shot to maintain its density over longer ranges, thus increasing the lethality and accuracy during long-range shooting instances.

On the other hand, the choke can also be configured to have a looser constriction. ☑️ This trait engenders a broader, less concentrated spread of shots, which can be advantageous in close-quarter scenarios.

For instance, in self-defence situations where the objective is to cover a wide area rather than a single point, this configuration proves to be highly effective.

Additionally, the mechanism behind the choke’s operation is particularly noteworthy. The choke functions by constricting the end of the barrel, creating a pathway for the shot to traverse. ☑️ This pathway allows the shot to undergo compression, forming a coherent, dense mass, also known as a ‘pattern.’

Our Top Pick
Primos Hunting TightWad Turkey Choke Tube
Select this choke tube for firing lead, copper-plated lead, and HEVI-SHOT at your target without breaking the bank! Precision-crafted from CNC-milled chrome alloy steel, this tube delivers tightly clustered pellets within a 30-inch circle at distances of up to 40 yards.
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Types 🔍

💠 Cylinder Choke: This type has no constriction and provides the widest shooting pattern. It is ideal for short-range shooting scenarios where broad coverage is essential, such as in self-defence situations.
💠 Improved Cylinder Choke: With a slight constriction, this choke offers a bit more range than the Cylinder Choke while maintaining a reasonably wide shot spread. It is perfect for hunting small, fast-moving game.
💠 Modified Choke: This middle-of-the-road choke is a versatile option that strikes a balance between shot spread and range. It is suitable for medium-range shooting and a variety of hunting scenarios.
💠 Full Choke: With the tightest constriction, the Full Choke yields a small, dense pattern. This choke type is excellent for long-range shooting, particularly when hunting waterfowl or game birds.
💠 Extra Full or Turkey Choke: Known for its extreme constriction, this choke is designed to maintain a tight, dense shot pattern at extended ranges. It is most commonly used in turkey hunting, hence its name.

Best Remington 870 Choke Review

1# Carlson’s 2-Pack Waterfowl Choke Tubes

Carlson's 2-Pack Waterfowl Choke Tubes

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The Carlson’s 2-Pack Waterfowl Choke Tubes include a mid-range choke tube for shooting 20 to 40 yards and a long-range choke tube ideal for shooting 35 to 55 yards. These choke tubes are made of 1704 stainless steel and throw tighter, denser patterns than conventional choke tubes. A 25% longer parallel section in the tubes results in more consistent patterns. Each Carlson’s Waterfowl Choke Tube is knurled on the end for quick and easy removal. Constriction and size are lasers marked on the end and body of each tube for easy reference. Steel shot may be used with exceptional results, but don’t shoot steel shot larger than a BB or any steel load faster than 1,550 FPS through the full or extra-full constrictions. Backed by Carlson’s lifetime warranty.

Pros:
  • Fits most Remington 870 shotguns
  • Made of durable steel
  • Impressive patterning with all types of shotshells
Cons:
  • The tubes are difficult to remove
  • The finish scratches easily

 

2# Carlson’s 12 Gauge Choke Tubes

Carlson's 12 Gauge Choke Tubes

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Carlson’s 12 Gauge Choke Tubes are the perfect choice for any shooter looking to up their game and trigger consistent, tight patterns. Crafted from 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlson’s choke tube is both durable and resistant to corrosion and rust. As a bonus, the non-ported design reduces the recoil making it a great option for extended shooting sessions. It’s specially designed for Winchester, Mossberg & Browning systems using standard invector chokes.

With a diameter of 0.66 inches, this turkey choke tube produces some seriously impressive patterns with minimal loss of pellets due to movement or velocity changes. You can rest assured knowing you’re getting superior performance when you invest in Carlson’s 12 Gauge Choke Tubes. An included choke wrench ensures you can easily make all necessary attach points without ever having to buy extra tools or accessories to get rolling.

Pros:
  • Produce tight patterns
  • Made from 17-4 stainless steel
  • Durable and resistant to corrosion and rust
  • Non-ported design reduces recoil
  • Diameter of 0.66 inches
Cons:
  • Installation can be a bit tricky

 

3# Carlsons Remington TSS Turkey Choke Tube

Carlsons Remington TSS Turkey Choke Tube

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The Carlsons Remington TSS Turkey Choke Tube is the perfect choice for any serious turkey hunter. This tub was specifically designed to optimize Federal Premium Heavyweight TSS Turkey Loads, helping you take aim at long-range turkeys with ease. Using tungsten super shot (TSS) with greater density than traditional lead shot and smaller shot sizes of 7-9, this choke tube ensures the maximum amount of pellets will be in a 10-inch circle, hitting those hard-to-reach targets with incredible accuracy.

The choke tube also works with other manufacturers’ turkey ammunition like FliteControl Flex wad providing even more accuracy from further distances, affording you the opportunity to get closer to your next big bounty.

Pros:
  • Tighter choke pattern than factory choke tubes
  • Constriction optimized for turkeys
  • Machined from 17-4 stainless steel
Cons:
  • The choke tube is difficult to remove
  • The constriction is too tight for smaller birds

 

4# Carlsons 12 GA Ported Sporting Clays Choke Tube

Carlsons 12 GA Ported Sporting Clays Choke Tube

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Carlson’s 12 GA Ported Sporting Clays Choke Tube provides the reliable performance you can count on for your successful shooting runs. Made from corrosion-resistant 17-04 stainless steel and precision machined for improved accuracy and tight patterns, this choke tube will prove incredibly useful for users of all kinds of shotshell ammunition. The extended parallel section allows for denser patterns with fewer flyers for more pellets striking their targets.

Reduced recoil and muzzle jump make follow-up shots quick and easy, giving you a slight competitive edge when competing in sporting clay matches. Lead, copper plated, nickel, Hevi-Shot, Bismuth and tungsten shells are all suitable to use with this high-performance choke tube; however, it is important to note that nothing larger than BB should be used when shooting steel through any choke tighter than full.

Pros:
  • Corrosion-resistant 17-04 stainless steel construction
  • Precision machined for improved accuracy and tight patterns
  • An extended parallel section allows for denser patterns with fewer flyers
  • Reduced recoil and muzzle jump for quick follow-up shots
Cons:
  • May not work well with all types of shotshell ammunition

 

5# Patternmaster 12ga Remington Code Black Duck

Patternmaster 12ga Remington Code Black Duck

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The Patternmaster 12ga Remington Code Black Duck is designed for serious duck hunters. Its advanced technologies, like the patented Code Black® technology and the heat-treated stainless steel construction, make it a powerful choice that allows you to get closer to your targets than ever before.

The extra tight patterns and short shot strings allow you to down ducks at maximum range, giving you an edge in any situation. To further enhance accuracy, this choke tube is ported to reduce muzzle jump. With its dark bronze titanium coating for non-reflective properties, this choke tube will be a reliable tool in your arsenal.

Video review

Pros:
  • Advanced Technologies
  • Extra tight patterns and short shot strings for increased accuracy
  • Ported to reduce muzzle jump
  • Dark bronze titanium coating for non-reflective properties
Cons:
  • May be too tight for beginners
  • Muzzle jump may affect the accuracy

 

6# Primos Hunting TightWad Turkey Choke Tube

Primos Hunting TightWad Turkey Choke Tube

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Ensure that you get a clean kill every time with the Primos Hunting TightWad Turkey Choke Tube. Choose this choke tube to fire lead, copper-plated lead, and HEVI-SHOT at your target and hit it, not your wallet! Crafted of CNC-milled chrome alloy steel, this tube produces densely packed pellets in a 30” circle over 40 yards. Get the precision accuracy and superior performance that you’re looking for without any extra frills. Installs and removes without any tools for quick setup so you can go from site to hunt in no time at all.

Pros:
  • Produces densely packed pellets
  • CNC-milled chrome alloy steel for precision accuracy
  • Installs and removes without any tools
Cons:
  • It is not the most versatile choke tube on the market.

 

7# Primos Hunting Jelly Head 20 Gauge Maximum Turkey Choke Tube

Primos Hunting Jelly Head 20 Gauge Maximum Turkey Choke Tube

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Put some serious power into your favourite turkey gun with the Primos Hunting Jelly Head 20 Gauge Maximum Turkey Choke Tube! This choke tube is specifically designed to increase the range and pattern density for taking down gobblers at longer ranges by up to 20%. The extended taper and fluted ports help to tighten patterns and reduce recoil, so you can make those long-distance shots every time. Plus, its Black-T coating offers special forces-level protection against rust and corrosion, giving you years of reliable performance in even the toughest environments.

Video review

Pros:
  • Increased range and pattern density
  • Extended taper and fluted ports
  • Black-T coating
  • Rust and corrosion-resistant
Cons:
  • Not compatible with all shotguns
  • May not be legal in all states

 

8# Hevi-Shot Hevi-13 Turkey Choke Tube

Hevi-Shot Hevi-13 Turkey Choke Tube

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The Hevi-Shot Hevi-13 Turkey Choke Tube is a serious hunter’s dream come true. Engineered for super-dense patterning with Hevi-13® loads, the wad-slowing choke tube produces tight patterns with both lead and lead-alternative shots. The distinctive cell structure of the throat area features internal rings that act to reduce extraneous wadding and keep it away from the shot cloud, ensuring optimal performance.

Additionally, axial porting reduces barrel jump, enabling you to accurately focus on your target without worrying about recoil effects. With this choke tube at your disposal, you’ll be equipped to take on even the toughest wild turkeys with confidence.

Pros:
  • Hevi-Shot Hevi-13 Turkey Choke Tube is incredibly easy to install
  • It has great constrictions that provide tight patterns for maximum effectiveness
  • The choke tube is manufactured from high-quality materials for long-lasting use
  • It produces devastating results on turkeys
Cons:
  • Needs frequent cleaning
  • Can be a bit challenging to use at first

 

9# HEVI-Shot Remington Ported Turkey Choke Tube

HEVI-Shot Remington Ported Turkey Choke Tube

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The HEVI-Shot Remington Ported Turkey Choke Tube is the perfect choice for expert hunters and shooting professionals who are looking for top performance. Manufactured from aircraft-grade 17-4 stainless steel, this durable choke tube guarantees a lifetime of peak performance. It’s easy to change these tubes in the field thanks to their knurled fore-end design, and they are available in 12 and 20-gauge models in both ported and non-ported versions.

Mid-range (out to 40 yards) and Extended-Range (past 40 yards) choke tubes help you get maximum performance from your HEVI-Shot ammo. Please note that Extreme-range choke tubes are not recommended for steel pellets larger than BB or excessive speeds of more than 1550 fps—utilize a mid-range choke tube for those applications.

Pros:
  • Manufactured from aircraft-grade 17-4 stainless steel for durability
  • The knurled fore-end design makes it easy to change tubes in the field
  • Available in 12 and 20-gauge models
  • Ported and non-ported versions are available
  • Mid-range and Extended Range choke tubes help you get maximum performance from your HEVI-Shot ammo
Cons:
  • Tubes are not colour-coded for easy identification
  • Chokes may not be legal in all states

 

10# Truglo Head Banger Choke Tube, 12 Gauge Remington

Truglo Head Banger Choke Tube, 12 Gauge Remington

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The Truglo Head Banger Choke Tube is designed for serious turkey hunters looking to take their performance to the next level. With superior craftsmanship and technology, you can trust that your shotgun will always deliver the optimal performance you expect. The 12 Gauge Remington Head Banger Choke Tube is made in the USA with heat-treated steel for increased durability and strength even when used with powerful turkey loads.

Multi-phase groove technology engages the shot cup and guides pellets into a tight, consistent pattern every time, allowing for greater range when hunting wild game. CNC machined for precision and featuring a polished end face for better seating and sealing – this choke tube ensures maximum power without any pressure loss. It’s rated for HEVISHOT, Winchester, Long Beard XR, Federal Premium 3rd Degree and other high-performance turkey loads.

Pros:
  • Superior craftsmanship and technology
  • Engages the shot cup and guides pellets into a tight, consistent pattern
  • CNC machined for precision
  • Polished end face for better seating and sealing
  • Rated for HEVISHOT, Winchester, Long Beard XR, Federal Premium 3rd Degree and other high-performance turkey loads
Cons:
  • May be too tight for some guns
  • May not work well with all brands of ammunition
  • Not available in all gauges

 

11# Truglo Double-Threat Dove Choke

Truglo Double-Threat Dove Choke

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Experience maximum versatility and efficiency in the field with the Truglo Double-Threat Dove Choke. Our quick-adjust system allows you to instantly switch between long- and short-range settings, so you can maximize your success in all situations. The “Twist and Click” design means easy adjustments without having to remove the choke from your shotgun – get ready for action in minutes! CNC-machined for precise tolerances, our choke comes with an installation tool (spanner wrench) to ensure a secure fit thanks to our patented non-obstructive gas porting.

Pros:
  • “Twist and Click” design means easy adjustments without having to remove the choke from the shotgun
  • Machined for precise tolerances
  • Comes with an installation tool
  • Patented non-obstructive gas porting
Cons:
  • Choke can be difficult to adjust

 

12# Hunters Specialties Undertaker Choke Tube

Hunters Specialties Undertaker Choke Tube

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Hunt with true precision with Hunters Specialties Undertaker Choke Tube. Incredibly strong and reliable, this premium choke tube is made of the highest quality materials, making it perfect for serious hunters everywhere. This 12 Gauge Remington choke tube is perfect for a variety of hunting situations and is designed to help you get the most out of each and every shot. When you need reliable performance in the field, turn to Hunters Specialties Undertaker Choke Tube.

Pros:
  • Incredible strength and reliability
  • Made of the highest quality materials
  • Perfect for serious hunters
  • Designed to help you get the most out of each and every shot
  • Reliable performance in the field
Cons:
  • The choke tube is difficult to remove from the barrel
  • It is not clear how much constriction the choke provides

 

13# MOJO Outdoors Fatal Shot Custom Waterfowl 12 Gauge Choke Tube

MOJO Outdoors Fatal Shot Custom Waterfowl 12 Gauge Choke Tube

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Introducing the MOJO Outdoors Fatal Shot Custom Waterfowl 12 Gauge Choke Tube. This revolutionary product is the result of a powerful partnership between MOJO Outdoors and Rob Roberts Custom Gun Works that has significantly improved performance in shotguns. Roberts has spent decades perfecting his craft, and his experience allows him to quickly and accurately test different theories of choke mechanics until he finds the ideal custom choke tube that offers superior performance above all else. His results are now available through Fatal Shot, so you can experience the greatest performance out of your shotgun.

Video review

Pros:
  • Superior performance
  • Quick and accurate testing
  • Dedication to advancing shotgun technology
Cons:
  • May be too tight for some shotguns
  • Only compatible with Remington 870s

 

14# TightWad Turkey Choke 12Ga Invector Tube

TightWad Turkey Choke 12Ga Invector Tube

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For those serious about their Turkey hunt, you want the TightWad Turkey Choke 12Ga Invector Tube. Designed with efficiency and power in mind, the .660 Invector steel construction is specifically tuned for long-range accuracy and deadly patterning. Compatible with traditional rifle scopes, red dot sights, and laser sights, your shots will land exactly where you need them to be. Each tube is tested for consistent performance, so your hunt can confidently rely on these results each time out on the field. Enjoy a faster kill recovery time with precision accuracy that only comes from the TightWad Turkey Choke 12Ga Invector Tube.

Pros:
  • Increased accuracy
  • Compatible with a variety of sights
  • Durable construction
Cons:
  • It is difficult to clean and may be difficult to remove from the shotgun barrel

 

15# Kick’s High Flyer Choke Tubes

Kick's High Flyer Choke Tubes

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Take your shooting to the next level with Kick’s High Flyer Choke Tubes. Revolutionary computer-assisted manufacturing brings maximum performance to the table; the strategically positioned gas vents reduce felt recoil by 25%, increasing accuracy by 20%. With superior pattern performance, our choke tubes are ideal for any waterfowl hunter, as well as upland game, quail, dove, rabbit, and pheasant hunters.

Rated for lead or steel shot equally well, Kick’s High Flyer also reduces “flyers”-shots that miss the allowing for denser and faster follow-up shots and reducing muzzle jump. No tools are needed to install our choke tubes; a final tightening with a choke tube wrench is recommended for maximum security against a loose choke tube while shooting.

Pros:
  • Superior pattern performance
  • Reduces felt recoil by 25%
  • Increases accuracy by 20%
  • No tools are needed for the installation
Cons:
  • Needs a choke tube wrench for the final tightening

 

16# Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube

Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube

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The Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube is the only choice for hunters and competitive shooters who want superior quality. The Black Diamond choke tube features an external operating system that fits all Remingtons with a .665 threaded port. It is proven to increase pattern density by 40%, giving you unprecedented accuracy when shooting long-distance targets.

With 30 parallel ports and a knurled end, this choke tube can be tightened by hand, giving you ultimate control over your shot. And if that isn’t enough, the Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube has been the NWTF World Record target holder for 3 years running!

Pros:
  • Superior quality
  • Increased pattern density by 40%
  • Fits all Remingtons with a .665 threaded port
  • 30 parallel ports
  • Knurled end for tightening by hand
  • NWTF World Record target holder for 3 years
Cons:
  • It is more expensive than other choke tubes on the market.
  • It is difficult to remove from the barrel.

 

 

Installation 🛠️

The process of installing a choke tube in a Remington 870 shotgun involves several careful steps that ensure the safety and functionality of the weapon.

🛑 Initial Safety Precautions: Prior to starting the installation process, it is crucial to take necessary safety precautions. This includes ensuring the shotgun is unloaded and the safety is engaged.

⚪ Removal of Existing Choke: Start by removing the existing choke if there is one. From our experience – the choke can be unscrewed using a specific choke wrench, which is designed to fit into the notches on the choke tube. After that fit the wrench into these notches and turn it counterclockwise until the choke tube is loosened and can be removed by hand.

⚪ Cleaning the Choke Threads: After removing the old choke tube, the next step is to clean the internal threads in the barrel. This can be done using a shotgun cleaning rod with a brush attachment. You need to insert the rod into the barrel, twist it to ensure it catches all the threads, and then pull it out. This will help eliminate any debris or residue.

⚪ Applying Choke Tube Lube: Once the threads have been cleaned, apply a thin layer of choke tube lube to the threads of the new choke tube. This lubrication reduces friction and ensures the choke tube can be installed and removed more easily in the future.

⚪ Installation of the New Choke: To install the new choke tube, carefully insert it into the barrel and begin to turn it clockwise by hand. When the choke tube can no longer be turned by hand, use the choke wrench to fully tighten it. However, care should be taken not to overtighten the choke, as this could damage the threads.

Final Inspection: After the new choke is installed, perform a final inspection. We recommend checking that the choke tube is seated properly and that there are no gaps between the choke and the barrel. If everything looks correct, the installation process is complete.

Watch this video to find more information 💻

FAQ ❓

What to look for when buying a turkey choke?

When purchasing a turkey choke, several factors can guide your decision to ensure you select an effective choke for your needs.

  • 🔘 Constriction is an essential aspect to consider, with turkey chokes typically possessing an extra-full constriction to keep the shot pattern tight and consistent at longer ranges.
  • 🔘 Material and durability are also key considerations. Look for chokes that are crafted from high-quality, heat-treated stainless steel for longevity and resistance against wear and tear.
  • 🔘Ensuring compatibility with your shotgun is of utmost importance when it comes to chokes. It is crucial to verify that the choke not only fits your shotgun model and brand but also aligns perfectly with its specifications and dimensions. This attention to detail will guarantee optimal performance and accuracy while using your shotgun.
  • 🔘 Pattern density is another crucial aspect — a good turkey choke should be able to maintain a dense and consistent shot pattern at a range of 40 yards or more.
  • 🔘 Lastly, ease of installation and removal can make a significant difference, particularly if you plan to switch chokes based on different hunting scenarios.
What are the benefits of using a Remington 870 choke?

The use of a Remington choke carries substantial benefits that enhance the overall performance of the shotgun, making it a preferred choice amongst shooters.

🟪 One of the primary advantages is Increased Accuracy. The choke constricts the spread of the shot as it exits the barrel, which results in a tighter, more compact shot grouping. ➡️ This helps shooters maintain precision over longer distances, making the Remington 870 choke extremely beneficial for both hunting and target shooting scenarios.

🟪 It also offers Versatility. With options ranging from Cylinder to Extra Full chokes, shooters can customize the performance of their shotgun to match specific shooting conditions. ➡️ This ability to adapt the shot spread according to the task at hand – whether it’s self-defence, close-range hunting, or long-range target shooting – significantly enhances the overall versatility of the Remington 870 shotgun.

🟪 The choke also contributes to the Improved Safety of the shotgun. By controlling the spread of the shot, the choke reduces the risk of stray pellets causing unintended damage or injury. ➡️ This is particularly important in hunting scenarios, where a wider shot spread could potentially harm non-target animals or fellow hunters.

🟪 Lastly, the Remington choke provides Enhanced Durability and Longevity. Made from high-quality, heat-treated stainless steel, these chokes are resistant to wear and tear, ensuring they can withstand the rigours of regular use. ➡️ This durability not only extends the life of the choke itself but also helps protect the shotgun barrel from potential damage caused by the shot, contributing to the overall longevity of the weapon.

How often should you clean your choke tubes?

Regular cleaning and maintenance are critical for choke tubes to keep them functioning properly. After each use, you should run a bore snake or soft brush through the tubes to remove any leftover debris from shooting. Also, wipe down the exterior with a solvent-dampened cloth.

Every 50-100 rounds, you’ll want to thoroughly scrub the tubes with a choke tube brush and solvent to remove lead, plastic and carbon buildup. Pay close attention to the inner threads and ports. Every 500 rounds or so, do a deep clean by soaking the tubes in a choke tube cleaner solution for at least 30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing them clean. Apply a light choke tube lube before reinstalling after a deep clean.

⚠️ Always make sure to give the tubes a thorough cleaning before putting your shotgun away for an extended period of time and apply lube to prevent corrosion.

If the tubes get wet, dry and clean them as soon as possible to prevent rusting. Regularly inspect for any dents, bulges or damage that could impair performance and replace as needed.

Following this basic cleaning routine will help prevent fouling issues and keep your choke tubes in proper working order for reliable patterning. You may need to adjust the frequency based on how much you shoot.

Are extended choke tubes worth the money?

A modified choke is a versatile middle-ground constriction that can be used for a variety of shotgun shooting applications. Here are some of the most common uses for a modified choke:

  • ⭕ Upland bird hunting – A modified choke spreads pellets out enough to hit flying game like pheasant, grouse, or quail at medium ranges while providing denser coverage than more open chokes. It’s a great all-around choice for flushing birds.
  • Clays sports – For shooting skeet or sporting clays, a modified choke provides a balance of spreading the pattern enough to hit fast crossing targets while maintaining sufficient reach for longer shots. It’s popular for course layouts with varying target presentations.
  • Turkey hunting – Turkey hunters often use modified chokes for good patterning at the 20-40 yard ranges common in the field. Used with lead or blended shot types, it can deliver lethal patterns on turkeys.
  • Waterfowl hunting – A modified choke pairs well with steel shot for ducks and geese at closer ranges over decoys, especially when hunting tighter sloughs or timber.
  • Defensive/law enforcement use – For defensive shotgun use, a modified choke delivers an effective spread at 7-15 yards, the typical engagement distance. It’s a common police/defence choke.
How far is a turkey choke good for?
A turkey choke’s effectiveness can vary widely depending upon its constriction and the load being used, but generally speaking, a well-designed turkey choke is capable of placing a sufficient number of pellets in a turkey’s vital area at distances up to 40 to 50 yards. However, with advancements in choke tube technology and high-quality ammunition, some turkey chokes can extend this range even further.

🛑 Still, it’s important to note that a choke’s effectiveness is not solely determined by range – pattern density and consistency are also crucial factors. To ensure optimal performance, it’s recommended that hunters pattern their shotgun with the specific choke and ammunition they plan to use before heading into the field. This helps to determine the maximum effective range of their setup under controlled conditions.

How do you properly pattern your shotgun?

✔️ First, set up a large sheet of patterning paper or cardboard at the distance you plan to be shooting (e.g. 30-40 yards for turkeys). Make sure to use a solid rest or shooting bench to ensure an accurate and consistent shot. It’s also best to use a patterning target with a 30-inch centered circle which represents the vital area of a game animal.

✔️ Next, load your shotgun with the specific ammo and choke you wish to pattern. It’s best to shoot at least 5-10 rounds to get a good average. Be sure to fire from the same point each time and concentrate on accuracy.

✔️ Once finished shooting, examine the spread on the target. Count the number of pellet holes within the 30-inch circle, marking them with pins or a marker. Also, look at the overall density and evenness of the pattern.

  • To find the percentage of pellets in the 30-inch area, divide the number of hits by the number of pellets fired. For example, if 240 pellets hit the circle out of 350 total, the percentage would be 240/350 = 69%.
  • For turkeys, ideally, you want 70% or more of the pellets in the 30-inch circle. If the pattern percentage is low, try a tighter choke or different ammo. The goal is even patterned with maximum shot density in the vital kill zone.

✔️ Following these steps allows you to precisely analyze your shotgun’s performance with different choke/ammo combinations. Patterning regularly helps ensure lethal, ethical shots in the game.

Conclusion 🤩

The Remington 870 Choke is a device that attaches to the muzzle of a shotgun and alters the spread of the shot. There are many different types of chokes available on the market, so it can be difficult to determine which one is best for your needs. In this article, we have provided reviews of some of the best-selling chokes on the market and shared tips on how to choose the right choke for your shotgun. We hope you found this information helpful!

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Max Winter
Max Winter
6 months ago

Remember, guys, it’s crucial to match your choke with the right ammunition for optimal performance. Different loads can behave differently with various chokes, so testing them out is key to finding the perfect combo for your shotgun.

    Archer
    Archer
    6 months ago

    I’ve used Carlson’s chokes in my Remington 870 for years, and they’ve been fantastic. Improved my patterns and consistency, especially for waterfowl hunting. 

      Hillion
      Hillion
      6 months ago
      Reply to  Archer

      Thanks for all the suggestions, folks. I’ll start with a thorough cleaning and check the choke tube’s seating. If that doesn’t help, I’ll head to the range to pattern test with different loads. I appreciate the advice!

        Hillion
        Hillion
        6 months ago

        Hey, friends, I’ve been having some issues with my Remington 870 shotgun and its choke. The patterns seem inconsistent, and sometimes it feels like the choke isn’t working as it should. Any ideas or similar experiences?

          Peyton
          Peyton
          6 months ago
          Reply to  Hillion

          Sorry to hear about your issues, Hillion. Inconsistent patterns can be frustrating. Have you tried thoroughly cleaning the choke and the barrel? Sometimes buildup and residue can affect performance.

            Kit
            Kit
            6 months ago
            Reply to  Hillion

            If cleaning and ammo checks don’t help, it might be worth having a gunsmith take a look. Your choke tube or barrel could be damaged or worn, causing the inconsistency you’re experiencing.

              Dane
              Dane
              6 months ago
              Reply to  Hillion

              I had a similar issue once, and it turned out my choke tube wasn’t properly seated in the barrel. Make sure it’s screwed in snugly and aligned correctly.

                Graham
                Graham
                6 months ago

                Hello. Is it okay to mix different brands of choke tubes?

                  Bredd Natrern
                  Bredd Natrern
                  6 months ago

                  I love the versatility of the Remington 870. I’ve got a few different chokes in my collection, including a turkey choke for gobblers during the spring season. 

                    Kelly Gloverf
                    Kelly Gloverf
                    1 year ago

                    How do you know if the choke you have is the right one for your gun?

                      Kirill
                      1 year ago
                      Reply to  Kelly Gloverf

                      You should always check the specifications of your gun and the choke you’re interested in. Comparing them will help you determine if they’re compatible. Additionally, it’s important to consult a professional if you have any doubts or concerns about which choke is right for your gun. 😎

                        Doyle Norton
                        Doyle Norton
                        1 year ago

                        This post is jam-packed with everything you need to know about Remington 870 chokes! It’s awesome that this resource provides all the details, tips and advice needed to pick the best one for the job. Easy to read and understand, I’d definitely recommend checking it out. Thanks so much for sharing your thorough knowledge on the subject! 🔥