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  • Post category:Chokes
  • Post last modified:April 5, 2024
  • Post published:January 6, 2021

Best Waterfowl Choke Tubes - Editor's Choice

What are waterfowl choke tubes?🤔

They are specially designed attachments for shotguns that are used to modify the spread of shots. The choke tube is placed at the end of the barrel and controls the size of the pattern formed by pellets when fired. This allows for greater accuracy and range when hunting waterfowl such as ducks and geese.

Waterfowl choke tubes

Features🎯

Waterfowl choke tubes are designed to give you maximum accuracy when hunting waterfowl. They help to reduce flyers and improve pattern density for more consistent shot placement. Features of a quality choke tube include:

  • ✴️ Longer length – They are typically longer than standard shotgun chokes, allowing for a more consistent pattern. This also gives you better control over your shots and ensures that the pellets don’t spread out too much.
  • ✴️ Improved porting – Quality tubes have improved porting, which helps to reduce flyers and improve the density of the pattern. This ensures that you get a consistent shot placement with every pull of the trigger.
  • ✴️ Durable construction – These choke tubes are made from heavy-duty materials such as stainless steel or aluminum, so they can withstand outdoor elements and last longer than standard chokes. They also have a thicker wall thickness for improved performance in adverse conditions.
  • ✴️ Improved accuracy – Quality tubes help to increase your accuracy by ensuring that the pellets don’t spread out too much when shooting at long distances. This helps to ensure more consistent shots and better results in the field.
  • ✴️ Cost-effective – They are typically more cost-effective than standard chokes, so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank when buying one. This helps to make them a great investment for any serious waterfowl hunter.
Our Top Pick
Carlson's Choke Tubes Remington Cremator Waterfowl Choke Tube
These choke tubes feature an innovative design with an extended length, ensuring a longer parallel section. This extension significantly enhances the choke tube's performance by generating tighter and denser patterns. One standout feature of these choke tubes is the extra-long parallel section located at the end where the constriction begins to widen. This design element optimizes the constriction for waterfowl hunting, offering the most efficient and effective pattern formation without distorting the shot.
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Benefits🔥

For avid hunters, the right waterfowl choke tube can make all the difference in a successful hunt. They help to give your shotgun the extra oomph it needs to take down ducks and geese, which tend to be smaller and more agile than other game birds.

  • 🔰 The right choke tubes are specifically designed to give you the tightest patterns of shot for the closest possible range. With an improved pattern, you can hit your target more easily, even in windy or foggy conditions. This makes them ideal for hunting small ducks and geese that may be faster and harder to shoot than other game birds.
  • 🔰 In addition, using a choke tube can help you maximize your shotgun’s power and accuracy while minimizing your recoil. This helps to reduce fatigue, which is especially important on longer hunting trips or after multiple shots.
  • 🔰 Finally, such tubes are great for defensive shooting as well. With the tightest possible pattern of shot, you can quickly and easily take down an intruder without having to worry about stray pellets hitting other people or property.

Benefits of waterfowl choke tube

Which to choose?🔍

Choosing the right waterfowl choke tubes can be a daunting task. There are several factors to consider such as pattern constriction, material, and price.

  • ☑️ Pattern constriction is one of the most important factors in selecting a choke tube. The tighter the constriction, the more likely the shot will be effective on distant targets. It also allows for a denser pattern so more pellets hit the target at once.
  • ☑️ Material is another important factor to consider when selecting choke tubes for waterfowling. Generally, stainless steel or titanium are considered among the best materials for waterfowl chokes because they are less likely to corrode and wear over time due to their superior resistance to moisture and saltwater exposure.
  • ☑️ Lastly, price should also be taken into consideration when selecting a choke tube because different brands often have different prices depending on their quality and features.

TOP 15 Waterfowl Choke Tubes

ImageProductBrand
Carlson's Delta Waterfowl 12 Gauge Choke TubeCarlson'sBUY
Carlson Choke Tube Benelli Crio CrematorCarlsonBUY
Carlson's Remington Cremator Waterfowl Choke TubeCarlson'sBUY
Jebs High Voltage Waterfowl Choke TubeJebsBUY
Carlson's Benelli Choke Tube 20GACarlson'sBUY
Trulock Waterfowl 3 Pack Choke TubeTrulockBUY
Carlson's Browning Invector-Plus Cremator Choke TubeCarlson'sBUY
Carlson's Beretta/Benelli Mobil Cremator Waterfowl Choke TubeCarlson'sBUY
Carlson's Beretta Optima HP Extended Choke TubeCarlson'sBUY
Carlson's Mossberg Choke TubeCarlson'sBUY
Carlson's Retay Delta Waterfowl Choke TubeCarlson'sBUY
Carlson's Cremator Waterfowl Remington Choke TubeCarlson'sBUY
Carlson's Remington Delta Waterfowl 20GA Choke TubeCarlson'sBUY
Carlson's Delta Waterfowl 12 Gauge Choke TubeCarlson'sBUY
Carlson's Remington Pro Bore 12GA Choke TunesCarlson'sBUY

1# Carlson’s Delta Waterfowl 12 Gauge Choke Tube

Carlson's Delta Waterfowl 12 Gauge Choke Tube

Carlson 12 Gauge Shotgun Choke Tubes — perfect for hunting or tactical missions. Constructed from 1704 stainless steel and designed for a tighter cast than other similar models. This model of air choke is equipped with a 25% longer parallel section in the air connection, providing a more stable installation. Each 12 Gauge shotgun choke tube set has a grooved head on the end allowing quick and easy removal of the attachment from the shotgun. Each shotgun muzzle is a laser-marked taper and is sized on the tip and body for ease of use. Steel shots can be easily used for hunting or tactical missions. The combination of the unique craftsmanship of expert gunsmiths and the company’s technological excellence results in excellent opportunities for expanding the functionality of this choke model.

Pros:
  • 25% longer parallel section
  • Can be used with steel shot
  • Laser-marked constriction and size
Cons:
  • Versatility issues

 

2# Carlson Choke Tube Benelli Crio Cremator

Carlson Choke Tube Benelli Crio Cremator

Equip your shotgun with one of these state-of-the-art choke tubes. Thanks to the operation of the throttle, a denser structure is created for the shotgun sleeves, which is ideal for hunting ducks or other birds — the shot is scattered at a greater distance, which significantly increases the accuracy of shooting. The unique shotgun choke is crafted for maximum firing accuracy and is made from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel to ensure reliable and productive performance throughout the hunting season. This choke tube is equipped with the patented Triple Shot technology, which guarantees a smooth transition from the bore of the shotgun to the final constriction. Upgrade your weapon with this choke tube model and your shots will always hit the target.

Pros:
  • Unique triple shot technology
  • Reduced pellet deformation, less flyers, and denser patterns
  • Precision-machined from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel
Cons:
  • Quality issues

 

3# Carlson’s Remington Cremator Waterfowl Choke Tube

Carlson's Remington Cremator Waterfowl Choke Tube

Choke tubes from the world’s leading manufacturer will create a work of art from your weapon thanks to precision engineering and the use of the highest quality materials. Ideal for long-range use, it is a series of three graded rings in the tapered muzzle section to provide a gradual transition from the main barrel to final compression. This design provides a significant reduction in deformation of the granules, fewer sheets, and the densest pattern. Ideal for equipping your hunting weapon if you like to opt for bird hunting. With this model, you get all the benefits of a longer choke tube, including a 25% longer parallel section. With a great offer in the form of a ported or non-ported configuration of your choice. This choke tube model has a unique lifetime manufacturer’s warranty and is manufactured with the utmost precision on high quality and precision equipment from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel.

Pros:
  • Stylish appearance
  • High-quality materials
  • Precision machined manufacturing
Cons:
  • Mounting issues

 

4# Jebs High Voltage Waterfowl Choke Tube

Jebs High Voltage Waterfowl Choke Tube

The Jebs High Voltage and Duck Commander series choke tubes are designed for simple and efficient handling of steel, lead, bismuth, or other types of shots that you use for hunting or shooting sports. The patented design provides the shooter with a more stable firing pattern and excellent stopping action at a greater distance. An excellent choke tube model designed for upgrading 12-gauge shotguns and expanding the functionality of its use.

Pros:
  • High-quality materials
  • Perfectly machined
  • Much more consistent shot pattern
Cons:
  • Long-term working issues

 

5# Carlson’s Benelli Choke Tube 20GA

Carlson's Benelli Choke Tube 20GA

The newest choke tube for 20-gauge shotguns guarantees better long-range accuracy and unique additional capabilities to fire a large number of different ammunition without loss of accuracy. The performance of your shotgun will be significantly enhanced thanks to the latest development of the best weapons experts in the industry – the officially tested product has passed all the necessary stages of verification and has proven itself to be the best. Thanks to the attention of the developers to the quality of the product, the materials used and the manufacturing technology, as a result, it gave an excellent chance to improve your shotgun with the help of a unique accessory of its kind, which grandiosely opens up new horizons for the functional use of firearms.

Pros:
  • Non-ported
  • 17-4 stainless steel
  • Great for long-range shooting
Cons:
  • Adjustment issues

 

6# Trulock Waterfowl 3-Pack Choke Tube

Trulock Waterfowl 3 Pack Choke Tube

Dramatically expand your shotgun’s potential with this Choke Model. The unique model of the shotgun significantly improves the firing pattern for optimal accuracy even at relatively long firing distances. Each kit is supplied with three different models of receiver choke — each model is designed for different shotguns: small, medium, and long lengths. If you love hunting ducks or other waterfowl, this choke tube is the perfect addition to your shooting arsenal. Take this choke kit with you for significant hunting optimization and better shot accuracy.

Pros:
  • Ideal to use with 12-gauge shotguns
  • 3-in-1 pack
  • A great choice for hunting
Cons:
  • Long-term working issues

 

7# Carlson’s Browning Invector-Plus Cremator Choke Tube

Carlson's Browning Invector-Plus Cremator Choke Tube

Choke tubes from the world’s most renowned manufacturer guarantee a unique level of performance for your firearms, regardless of weather and tactical conditions of shooting. Structurally, it is a series of three graduated rings in the conical part of the muzzle attachment, providing a smooth and gradual transition from the main barrel of the gun to the final narrowing. This design provides significantly less deformation of granules with a shot. The above-mentioned advantages make this choke model an excellent choice for all arms enthusiasts. With this model, you also get all the benefits of an extended choke tube. Manufactured from high-quality 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel. The kit also comes with a 25% longer parallel section for a tighter pattern, guaranteeing keyless installation, quick removal if necessary, and assistance in protecting the muzzle from negative influences. They are offered in ported and non-ported configurations of your choice. The manufacturer provides a lifetime warranty.

Pros:
  • Elaborate construction
  • Stylish appearance
  • High-quality 17-4 stainless steel
Cons:
  • Counterfeit issues

 

8# Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Mobil Cremator Waterfowl Choke Tube

Carlson's Beretta/Benelli Mobil Cremator Waterfowl Choke Tube

When duck hunting season arrives, then enthusiastic hunters begin to test their hunting arsenal – and often decide to supplement their firearms with additional chokes for better control of accuracy and accuracy. One of the best manufacturers on the market allows users to dramatically expand the range of their shotguns thanks to the unique technology and high-quality materials from which the best gunsmiths have made the Carlson’s Cremator Waterfowl Beretta choke tube — while providing full-cut protection and a 25% longer parallel section for narrower schemes. Thanks to the use of the most advanced technologies and high-quality stainless steel, the effect of maximizing the functionality of the shotgun is achieved without losing the stopping qualities of fire.

Pros:
  • Triple shot technology
  • Fewer flyers
  • Muzzle protection
Cons:
  • Quality issues

 

9# Carlson’s Beretta Optima HP Extended Choke Tube

Carlson's Beretta Optima HP Extended Choke Tube

With Beretta choke tubes, every hunter will be able to successfully use steel and tungsten cartridges without worrying about bulging the muzzle during active shooting. The extended stainless steel choke extension is made from the unique Carpenter 455 alloy stainless steel for added strength to withstand steel shots and other heavy ammunition. Choke tubes will work perfectly with all lead shot casings — they provide less heat and barrel expansion during firing. Choke tubes work perfectly with all lead shot casings and guarantee a tighter shot pattern when shooting at medium to long distances.

Pros:
  • High-quality 17-4 stainless steel
  • Beretta Optima HP tube system
  • Easy to install
Cons:
  • Adjustments issues

 

10# Carlson’s Mossberg Choke Tube

Carlson's Mossberg Choke Tube

The unique choke tube model is designed to complement your shooting arsenal with the most advanced technology. Utilizing the most advanced technology in the arms industry, this choke tube model offers superior quality and excellent rejection of pellet spread when shooting at medium to long distances. Made from high-quality 17-4 steel, this choke tube model offers excellent performance when combined with a wide range of Mossberg shotguns.

Pros:
  • Stylish appearance
  • Choke wrench included
  • High-quality 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel
Cons:
  • Versatility issues

 

11# Carlson’s Retay Delta Waterfowl Choke Tube

Carlson's Retay Delta Waterfowl Choke Tube

The newest model of extension choke attachments for hunting waterfowl and other game, made from the highest quality stainless steel 17-4 and is designed to create denser and sharper patterns when shooting at long and medium distances. This model of choke pipes has a 25% longer section parallel to the main barrel, providing the most stable shooting. Each accessory has a dedicated knurled end for quick and comfortable installation. Each prefabricated choke is laser-marked on the tip and size of the tip and body for easy installation in all weather or field conditions. Steel shots can be used through these fittings with exceptional results. It is recommended not to shoot a shot larger than a BB or other cartridges with a speed of 1550 FPS through a narrowing of the range of long-term action.

Pros:
  • Officially approved in the USA
  • Perfectly designed
  • 17-4 stainless steel
Cons:
  • Adjustment issues

 

12# Carlson’s Cremator Waterfowl Remington Choke Tube

Carlson's Cremator Waterfowl Remington Choke Tube

The latest model of choke tubes is equipped with the patented Triple Shot Technology and perfectly aligns the shooting when firing at medium and long distances, ensuring the minimum dispersion of pellets. Structurally, it consists of three graduated rings in the conical part of the muzzle attachment, guaranteeing the smoothest transition from the bore of the rifle to the final narrowing. Thanks to this technology, it provides a unique dense pattern when shooting at almost any distance. This range of barrel chokes is not limited in size or speed with steel shot in any of the three taper segments. By purchasing this model, you get all the benefits of an extended choke tube. Manufactured from the trendiest high-quality materials from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel. The manufacturer provides a lifetime product warranty.

Pros:
  • 17-4 stainless steel construction
  • Perfect for supplementing Remington shotgun
  • Greatly reduces pellet deformation
Cons:
  • Mounting issues

 

13# Carlson’s Remington Delta Waterfowl 20GA Choke Tube

Carlson's Remington Delta Waterfowl 20GA Choke Tube

Remington’s unique choke tube set is specifically designed for waterfowl and is made from high-performance 17-4 stainless steel to complement a wide range of shotguns. Choke tubes have a 25% longer parallel section to successfully suppress barrel expansion during active firing. Each choke tube has a special knurled tip for quick and ergonomic installation in any field condition. Steel shots can be used with fittings with extremely positive results. It is strongly recommended not to use it when firing coarse shots with a bullet speed of more than 1550 FPS. Don’t forget to model the shotgun muzzle for the specific charge you fire — this choke model works well with many different series of shotguns. They perform well in combination with the installation of an additional casing. The manufacturer provides a lifetime product warranty.

Pros:
  • High-quality 17-4 stainless steel
  • Excellent for long and middle range
  • Improved cylinder
Cons:
  • Long-term working issues

 

14# Carlson’s Delta Waterfowl 12 Gauge Choke Tube

Carlson's Delta Waterfowl 12 Gauge Choke Tube

Choke tubes of the Cremator series are equipped with the latest Triple Shot technology. They are offered to customers for shooting at medium and long distances — for example, when hunting waterfowl. Complemented by advanced technology, the choke tube ultimately guarantees a significant increase in shooting performance. All these advantages make the Cremator series extremely effective for hunting most species of birds, moreover, it has no size restrictions or requirements for bullet speed in any of the three restrictions when shooting with steel shot at medium and long distances. By purchasing this model, you gain a 25% parallel section for the densest pattern, excellent keyless installation, quick removal, and comfortable setting of the main parameters.

Pros:
  • Stylish appearance
  • Perfectly fits 12 gauge shotguns
  • Fully compatible with Winchesters, Mossbergs, and Brownings
Cons:
  • Mounting issues

 

15# Carlson’s Remington Pro Bore 12GA Choke Tunes

Carlson's Remington Pro Bore 12GA Choke Tunes

Choke tubes from the world’s most renowned manufacturer guarantee maximum performance when firing at close range. Made from the most advanced materials, this choke tube model guarantees a unique level of performance for rhythmic targeting in hunting or sporting events. Ideal for a wide range of shotguns. Thanks to its unique mounting system, it provides easy and hassle-free installation with a patented design and a 25% longer main section. Manufactured from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel.

Pros:
  • Excellent to use within close range
  • High-quality 17-4 steel
  • Free case
Cons:
  • Versatility issues

 

Installation and care💡

🧑‍🔧 Installing a choke tube is a relatively simple process. However, there are some important tips and tricks to keep in mind when performing this task.

  • 🛠️ First, it’s essential to make sure that the threads on the choke tube and barrel of your firearm are properly aligned. This can be a tricky task, as improper alignment can cause damage to both the tubing and the firearm itself.
  • 🛠️ It may be helpful to use a thread protector or thread lubricant during installation.

⭕ Once the choke tube is correctly installed, it’s important to maintain its condition.

  • 🧩 Regular cleaning will help them last longer and perform optimally. A soft cloth is usually all that’s needed for basic maintenance; however, more specialized products are available for deeper cleanings.
  • 🧩 It’s also important to check for signs of wear such as rust or corrosion; if any of these conditions are present (or if your choke tube has begun to malfunction), it’s likely time for a replacement.
  • 🧩 It’s always wise to store any firearms with their chokes removed until they’re ready for use again; this will ensure that they remain in proper working order and won’t suffer from any unnecessary wear and tear due to prolonged exposure to the elements.

FAQ🤠

What is the difference between choke tubes?

🟦 Choke tubes are interchangeable devices that are used in shotguns to control the spread of the shot pattern. They are inserted into the muzzle end of the barrel and serve to constrict or tighten the shot pattern, allowing for more effective and accurate shooting at various distances. Here are the common types of choke tubes and their characteristics:

  • ✔️ Cylinder: A cylinder choke tube has no constriction and provides an open shot pattern. It is typically used for shooting at close ranges or when a widespread is desired, such as in hunting small games at short distances.
  • ✔️ Improved Cylinder (IC): The improved cylinder choke tube has a slight constriction compared to the cylinder choke, resulting in a slightly tighter shot pattern. It is versatile and commonly used for hunting small game, upland birds, and clay target shooting at moderate ranges.
  • ✔️ Modified (M): The modified choke tube provides moderate constriction, producing a tighter shot pattern compared to the improved cylinder. It is well-suited for general-purpose hunting, including waterfowl, upland game, and sporting clays at medium distances.
  • ✔️ Full: The full choke tube has the most constriction, resulting in a dense and narrow shot pattern. It is typically used for longer-range shooting, such as pass-shooting waterfowl or long-range clay target shooting.
  • ✔️ Specialty Chokes: In addition to the standard chokes mentioned above, there are specialized choke tubes available for specific shooting applications. These include skeet chokes (used for close-range clay target shooting), turkey chokes (designed for turkey hunting with tighter patterns), and rifled chokes (used in shotgun barrels with rifled bores for shooting sabot slugs).
What is the most open choke tube?

➡️ The most open choke tube is typically referred to as a “cylinder” choke.

  • 🔶 The cylinder choke has no constriction, meaning it provides the widest shot pattern with minimal constriction of the shot column. It allows the shot to spread out quickly after leaving the barrel, resulting in a broad pattern.
  • 🔶 It is often used in situations where a wide and open shot pattern is desired, such as hunting small games in dense cover at close ranges or shooting in sporting clay disciplines that involve short-range targets. It is also commonly used for home defense applications, as it allows for maximum spread when engaging targets at close quarters.

📌 It’s important to note that the specific labeling and designations of choke tubes can vary between manufacturers. While “cylinder” is a commonly used term for the most open choke, some manufacturers may use alternative terms such as “cylinder bore” or “open choke” to refer to the same type of choke tube.

What is the best patterning load for waterfowl?

📢 The best patterning load for waterfowl can vary depending on several factors, including the specific species being targeted, shooting conditions, personal preferences, and local regulations. However, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind:

  • 🔰 Shot Size: Waterfowl hunting typically requires larger shot sizes due to the size and toughness of the birds. Common shot sizes for waterfowl include #2, #3, and #4. These larger shot sizes provide sufficient energy and penetration to effectively take down waterfowl at typical hunting distances.
  • 🔰 Shot Material: Non-toxic shot is mandatory for waterfowl hunting in many areas to prevent lead contamination of the environment. Steel shot is the most common non-toxic shot material used for waterfowl hunting. Other non-toxic alternatives include bismuth, tungsten, and various tungsten-based alloys. Each material has its characteristics and performance, so it’s important to consider factors such as pattern density, penetration, and cost when selecting a shot material.
  • 🔰 Load Velocity: Waterfowl loads are typically available in different velocities, such as standard velocity or high-velocity loads. Higher velocities can provide better downrange energy and a longer effective range. However, it’s important to balance velocity with pattern density and shot performance to ensure consistent and effective shot placement.
  • 🔰 Choke Selection: The selection of choke tubes can also impact the pattern and effectiveness of your waterfowl loads. Generally, choke tubes with a tighter constriction, such as modified or full chokes, are commonly used for waterfowl hunting to achieve denser patterns and longer effective range. However, the ideal choke choice may vary based on shooting conditions and personal preferences.
Is choke or duckbill better?

🔍 The choice between a choke and a duckbill, also known as a spreader or wide-angle choke, depends on your specific shooting preferences and the shooting conditions you encounter while hunting waterfowl. Let’s discuss the characteristics of each option:

  • 🟣 Choke: Choke tubes are designed to constrict the shot pattern, providing a tighter grouping of pellets and a longer effective range. Chokes come in various constrictions, such as improved cylinder, modified, and full. They are commonly used for waterfowl hunting to achieve denser patterns at longer distances, increasing the probability of a clean and effective shot. Chokes allow for versatility by enabling you to adjust the pattern density to match the shooting conditions and the distance to your target.
  • 🟣 Duckbill/Spreader: A duckbill or spreader is an alternative to a traditional choke tube. It is specifically designed to open the shot pattern, resulting in a wider spread of pellets. This wide-angle spread can be beneficial in scenarios where birds are flying at close range or when there’s a need to cover a larger area with a shot. Duckbill chokes are designed to provide a wide and even pattern, increasing the chances of hitting a moving target in closer quarters.

✒️ The choice between a choke and a duckbill ultimately depends on your hunting style, shooting distances, and the specific hunting situations you expect to encounter.

  • 🎯 If you typically engage waterfowl at longer distances or prefer a more controlled and dense shot pattern, a traditional choke would be more suitable.
  • 🎯 On the other hand, if you frequently encounter birds at close range or prefer a wider spread for increased coverage, a duckbill or spreader choke may be a better choice.
How does a choke tube work?

⭐️ A choke tube is a device used in shotguns to control the spread of the shot pattern by modifying the constriction at the end of the barrel. Here’s how a choke tube works:

  • 💠 Constriction: A shotgun barrel is typically smoothbore, meaning it has no rifling. The choke tube is a removable tube that is inserted into the muzzle end of the shotgun barrel. The choke tube has a tapered or constricted section at the end that narrows the bore diameter, effectively squeezing or constricting the shot as it exits the barrel.
  • 💠 Shot Compression: As the shot charge (multiple pellets) travels down the barrel, it encounters the constriction created by the choke tube. This constriction compresses the shot, causing the pellets to come closer together and form a tighter shot pattern.
  • 💠 Shot Spread: Once the shot exits the barrel, it begins to spread out as it travels toward the target. The amount of spread depends on the level of constriction provided by the choke tube. A more open or less constricted choke will result in a wider shot pattern, while a tighter choke will produce a narrower pattern.
  • 💠 Distance and Accuracy: The choke tube’s primary function is to optimize the shot pattern for a specific shooting distance. By controlling the spread of the shot, chokes allow for more precise aiming and increased accuracy. Different chokes are available with varying levels of constriction, allowing shooters to adapt to different shooting situations and target distances.
How are choke tubes marked?

🧩 Choke tubes are typically marked with specific markings or notches on the tube itself or the external collar to indicate their choke constriction. Here are some common markings and their corresponding choke constriction:

☑️ Cylinder: No markings or notches. It signifies no constriction or an open choke.

☑️ Improved Cylinder (IC): Usually marked with a single notch or “IC” abbreviation.

☑️ Modified (M): Often marked with two notches or an “M” abbreviation.

☑️ Full: Usually marked with three notches or an “F” abbreviation.

☑️ Extra Full: Sometimes marked with four notches or the “XF” abbreviation.

☑️ Color Coding: Some choke tubes may feature color-coded bands or rings around the tube or collar to indicate the choke constriction. Different manufacturers may use various color schemes, but they generally follow a similar pattern. For example:

  • 💥 Cylinder: No color band or a clear/white band.
  • 💥 Improved Cylinder (IC): Lightly colored band, often green or yellow.
  • 💥 Modified (M): Moderately colored band, often blue.
  • 💥 Full: Heavily colored band, often red.
  • 💥 Choke Tube System-Specific Markings: Some manufacturers have their proprietary choke tube systems, which may include unique markings specific to their brand. These markings may include letters, numbers, or symbols that indicate the choke constriction or compatibility with a particular shotgun model or system.

Conclusion😊

Choosing the best waterfowl choke tube for your shotgun is an important decision that can make a huge difference in your success rate. With so many options available on the market today, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all of them. We hope our guide has given you more insight into what makes a great choke tube and which ones are worth considering when shopping around. So if you take advantage of these recommendations then we’re sure you won’t be disappointed with your purchase!😉👍

 

Yury Alexeev
Yury Alexeev
Gun and Hunting Expert
The author of analytical top articles on firearms and accessories — a recognized expert in the field of survival in the wild, the author of many articles on quality camping and hunting equipment, and a firearms enthusiast. Due to many years of experience in hunting trips and studying the technical side of collecting firearms — both for hunting and for clay pigeon shooting — the author has many valuable tips to harmonize the passion for hunting and bring to it exceptional quality in terms of equipment and outfit.

My articles are precisely analyzed technical information and equipment specifications that allow a real hunter to assemble a decent set of weapons for multi-day outings in the wild. From the tents to the well-oiled gun, everything should meet the demands of the extreme entertainment enthusiast. Technically perfect weapons can greatly facilitate hunting even in the wilderness — choosing only the most qualitative, modern optics and other accessories for weapons, hunting efficiency will be maximum.

When choosing a weapon for hunting, pay attention to its specifications, and, above all, to the convenience for yourself — using high-quality equipment, you will discover the wonderful world of accurate shooting and successful hunting even in those weather conditions that don’t imply hope for the shooter's eyes. Yury Alexeev - weapon and hunting expert, CEO of Silencer.Systems

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Cruelmask
Cruelmask
8 months ago

I’m curious to know what choke, load, and gun combination works best for each of you. It would be helpful to hear about your personal preferences and experiences. Additionally, if you could provide some context about the type of hunting you engage in, it would further assist in understanding the specific requirements and conditions you encounter. I look forward to learning from your insights and recommendations.

    Nicolas Hall
    Nicolas Hall
    8 months ago
    Reply to  Cruelmask

    For my setup, I use a Beretta shotgun with a Carlson’s Beretta Optima HP Extended Choke Tube and BB shot size. Recently, I decided to give Hevi Metal shot a try, and I must say it performed exceptionally well. I noticed that every duck I shot seemed to be effectively taken down, with most being dead before hitting the water. The performance was impressive, to say the least. Overall, I’ve had great success with my Beretta paired with this choke. It’s a combination that has delivered reliable results and increased my confidence in the field.

      Emberclaw
      Emberclaw
      8 months ago
      Reply to  Cruelmask

      I use a Benelli SBE II shotgun with Carlson’s Benelli Choke Tube 20GA. My primary hunting focus is on ducks, both in farm ponds and the marshes of larger lakes. I’ve noticed that I often tend to shoot too early, so this choke serves as a mental reminder for me to exercise patience and wait for the ducks to decoy properly.

        Nick Lewis
        Nick Lewis
        8 months ago

        I’m curious if anyone here has personal experience with the choke tubes. Any information or experiences you can share would be greatly appreciated.

          Summerfur
          Summerfur
          8 months ago
          Reply to  Nick Lewis

          I have experience using Carlson’s Remington Cremator Waterfowl Choke Tube. In comparison to my factory chokes, I’ve found that they offer slight performance improvements. They have been particularly effective in patterning Kent and Rios shotshells from my gun. One advantage I appreciate is that these choke tubes perform well with affordable ammunition, which is a definite plus. Overall, I’ve had positive experiences with these chokes, finding them to be a worthwhile upgrade from the factory options.

            Fischer Hughes
            Fischer Hughes
            8 months ago
            Reply to  Nick Lewis

            I use Carlson’s Browning Invector-Plus Cremator Choke Tube, and I’m quite pleased with its performance. It has delivered excellent results for me. I continuously explore different choke options to find the ideal fit for my respective shooting styles.

              Andres Turner
              Andres Turner
              8 months ago

              I recently purchased a shotgun that allows for interchangeable choke tubes, and I’m curious to hear about others’ experiences with changing the factory choke setting. Have any of you swapped out your choke tubes and noticed a significant difference in performance? Thank you!

                Mellow
                Mellow
                8 months ago
                Reply to  Andres Turner

                In my experience, if you’re decoying ducks up close, you can generally stick with the factory choke tubes. However, if the ducks are more skittish or if you’re hunting geese from a greater distance, it may be worth considering an extended choke. Personally, I’ve had good results using Carlson’s Benelli Choke Tube 20GA on days when I need that extra distance. Before investing in additional choke tubes, I would recommend trying out your shotgun with the factory chokes first. See how they perform during hunts or even while practicing with clays. This way, you can determine if there’s a genuine need for different choke choices and make an informed decision without unnecessary spending.

                  Robert Jackson
                  Robert Jackson
                  8 months ago
                  Reply to  Andres Turner

                  I decided to purchase a Trulock Waterfowl 3-Pack Choke Tube for my shotgun primarily because I frequently hunt in wet weather conditions. I’ve heard stories of factory chokes getting stuck inside the barrel under such circumstances, and I wanted to avoid any potential issues. By using an extended choke, I have the advantage of being able to easily remove it if it becomes stuck. However, I want to emphasize that the factory chokes are perfectly capable of taking down birds effectively. They are more than capable of doing the job. The decision to switch to an extended choke was a personal choice based on the specific conditions I often encounter during my hunts.

                    Softcoyote
                    Softcoyote
                    8 months ago
                    Reply to  Andres Turner

                    Here’s the process I followed for optimizing my setup: In step one, I acquired a variety of shotshells that were potential candidates for hunting. In step two, I tested these shells on paper at different ranges to assess their patterns. If I was satisfied with the patterns, then I considered myself done. However, if I wasn’t completely satisfied, I moved on to step three. In step three, I acquired new choke(s), for example, Carlson’s Retay Delta Waterfowl Choke Tube, and repeated the process of testing the same shells on paper. This allowed me to fine-tune my setup and achieve the desired patterns and performance.