So this will be my first year hunting in south east Mississippi. All my shotguns are hand me downs and the newer ones I didn’t have chokes come with. Is there a certain set of chokes you would recommend for a new duck hunter. I will be hunting divers in open water here on the coast and hopefully find some good management land for some puddle ducks. I know the choke will change the distance of spread like you taught. I’m more referring to are all chokes really created equal and I just need to find the right choke type for my chosen ammo? Or are brands different enough to consider?
For those of us who’s daddy and grandpa didn’t hunt, thank you for being the mentor to teach us these. My son is three so I’m playing catch up on learning this stuff now so I can teach him in a few years. God bless you Joel!
Thanks Kyle. I had no relatives that Duck hunted. I learned either on my own or from older guys who taught me in my late teens early 20s. Priceless stuff from gentleman that cared to pass it forward.
I love you daddy I did grow up hunting with my dad unfortunately I didn't realize until I was older that I should have paid more attention when I was younger
I think it is easy to get caught up in all this technology and lose sight of good fundamentals. It’s the wizard not the wand. That being said. Thank you for you detailed and honest take on shotgunning. You have certainly demystified a lot of this for me.
I hate to say but I chased the gear and marketing rabbit for a while. I’m a self taught waterfowl hunter so I was the ideal person to buy way to much stuff and chase the greener grass that doesn’t exist. Long story short on choke tubes is they all work just fine 40 yards and in. Which is where 90% of your wing shooting is done. In my mind now after owning a bunch of different guns and tubes for each of those guns after market tubes aren’t worth it for a 12 gauge unless you just have some money to burn in which case power to you. However, I will say aftermarket tubes in a 20 gauge are worth it. I have seen a huge jump in performance. Factory chokes will get you 30-35 yards with a 20 but the right aftermarket for your gun and load of choice can make a 20 gauge a 40-45 yard gun. For my 20 gauge SX4 I have a jebs .585 and at 40 yards there will be 20-30 pellets on a standard sheet of paper with just about any steel load. But you can accomplish that same number with most 12 gauge factory modified tubes. Don’t chase the rabbit save some money and learn to get them close.
Carlson mid range (modified 1" extended) has been the best I've used in 5 different guns and brands. They pattern Lead, steel, and buckshot so well its crazy.
It's almost become a hobby of mine to try different handloads and choke combinations. What I've found so far is that a Light Modified choke gives me the best pattern with #B, #1, and #2 steel as long as the load falls between 1400-1500 fps.
Most all of the competition shooters will speak on how chokes are a mental handicap. Practice shooting. Have someone knowledgeable set your gun up for YOU. Length of pull, drop at comb etc.. Pickup your gun more often in the off-season. It sure made a difference in my shooting, following that instruction.
Thats pretty typical for most forms of shooting. Usually just the basic gear is completely adequate for the task with the right amount of practice. After that, the aftermarket gear just makes execution of the task more refined.
Thanks from Northern Alberta, Canada, as previously mentioned, some of us didn't have mentors and are starting pretty late in the game. Sharing the rich history and progression of the sport really Fosters a conservation attitude
YES! Great video! I feel like you are the only other person on the planet that wants to cut through the marketing clutter of the waterfowl industry! Only 2 of out 100+ guys ever patterned their gun and load? That blows a fuse in my brain. Wow.
Thanks George! I’ve been hunting since the 80s and It never occurred to me to pattern my shotgun for ducks til about 10 years ago. Nobody had ever taught me to. Most of my buddies who are avid duck hunters don’t pattern their gun. We’ve got to teach them ‘the way’!
I have patterned my gun, but it is very difficult find a place to do it, gun ranges wont let you shoot waterfowl loads and conservation areas posted no target shooting.
@@paulk6077 not if you already live in duck 🦆 country... Remember it's legal to shoot on the water, that way you don't get steel in the breast... Remember sport and sustinance hunting are completely different, there's a lot of people that are hunting for food and getting raped by all the tags fees and laws... Don't even get me started on public land hunting in a leftist state, I've had some pretty big crybabies try to foolishly Rush a former Marine with a 3 1/2 in magnum loaded up ready to go because they don't like goose tacos or "goo-ssse-ghetti", as much as I. 🤷
I use the factory Mod Invector choke tube in my SX3. I reload my own ammo and without buying an after market tube I tried them first. 96% pattern at 40yds in a 30" circle is good enough for me.
As far as chokes go I have been able to get them all to pattern well depending on the shell. I have used factory to kicks and Carlsons. And if you pattern your shotgun weather you use factory chokes or buy your own extended chokes you will decrease the amount of wounded birds period. But with that being said, I have really enjoyed using a ported Carlson’s choke with Kent fast Steel. And regardless of any extended choke I have found all of them to hit with more impact, then factory.
Pattermaster code black goose in my SX4 patterns well with just about everything under the sun and didn’t have but one cripple this year. Idk if it was the shotstring technology or just some lucky pellets but it just flat out performed phenomenal this year. Shot almost 75% on birds ranging from 10-55 yards.
I chose Briley light mod for all around shooting. I found great information and customer service from Briley…and I have been very satisfied with their performance. I primarily shoot Beretta guns
As someone who has been getting more and more into bird hunting, I’m guilty of previously not educating myself on chokes, ammo, etc. However, in the world of shotgunning and bird hunting (especially waterfowl) there is a steeeeep learning curve so I appreciate the manufacturers that “dumb down” some of the information to expedite the process of getting interested parties in the field and getting hooked. Hats off to Carlson’s (shameless plug) for naming their chokes based on what their used for (long range dove choke) but including the IM marking which makes it easy but also educates the consumer. Thanks for your videos, they are super helpful!
I use Trulock blackened stainless steel ported extended chokes in my 12 gauge 725 Feather over and under with 26 inch barrels. Use an improved cylinder in my lower barrel and improved modified in my upper barrel. Weighs about 6 pounds 8 ounces and makes the barrel length closer to 27 inch long barrels. My all around shotgun to hunt waterfowl and flushing upland birds. Thanks for posting your video.
Great video. Chokes do have a purpose and it takes experimenting to determine the best size. Very disappointed in Weatherby's lack of choke choice for their shotguns. Weatherby won't even post a review on their website if there is a negative comment regarding their limited choke selection. When buying a shotgun, know your options.
The reason most full chokes aren't rated for steel shot is that the steel patterns very tightly to begin with. Anything tighter than modified will often over constrict the pattern and not only cause bad patterns but can damage your choke & gun as well.
Well really it’s because lead is soft and has give to it so when it gets constricted it can bend to conform to tighter constrictions than steel bc steel is a much harder metal and doesn’t bend or give when passing thru a choke point at 1500fps. Also with waterfowl you are using large shot like Bb, 1, 2,4, with lead it’s usually 6,7,8 on upland game, bigger harder shot cannot be choked like small soft shot or it could swell a barrel
I shoot a light modified sporting clay choke, and use shot size to determine my distance. Smaller shot will give me a more open pattern and larger shot will tighten the pattern.
I've watched a bunch of videos learning to hunt. First year here, and while I am still waiting to get my first duck, I do believe your videos have helped me be able to have taken a few shots every time I've gone out. This shotgun series is what I needed, and has earned my subscription. Keep up the amazing videos!
I changed from factory chokes to Carlson Cremator mid and extended range chokes and noticed a big improvement with my Rem 870. When I upgraded to the Benelli SBE3 I went ahead and got the same Carlson chokes. So far I like the results with a wide variety of shells. And yes, I have put pellets on paper with it too :)
@@scottducote7389 I personally haven't noticed a big difference from the two, but generally I just run the mid range all season to great effect with steel shells. If I were to get bismuth shells, I'd shoot the long range.
Thanks for the help. I don't hunt currently, but shoot clays occasionally and I have an old Mossberg 500 that I got used and only had a factory modified choke tube in it. I am trying to put together a basic choke tube set for it. I looked at the factory tubes however several were restricted to lead only, so I am getting carlsons extended (non ported) as they are approved for steel and heavi-shot.
I use a mid range waterfowl choke I got at camels. I mainly wanted an extended choke so I didn’t have to fool with the choke tool when I wanted to check that my choke was tight. Good video 👍🦆
I bought the carlsons chokes because it was a cheaper option. I was looking for extended chokes because i like being able to change the chokes with out a choke tool. I ruined a barrel of my favorite gun trying to get a factory flushed choke removed. Even a gunsmith couldn’t get it out. And it was hard to find that barrel and gave up looking for it. Now I religiously clean my gun, barrel, and chokes after every hunt. That is why I recommend extended chokes.
I grew up with very little shotgun knowledge, I was a rifle guy. I met my wife and got married and her brother in law (now mine too) is a big duck and geese hunter, and I wanted to get into it. I am so overwhelmed by all the information with choke tubes and different ammo loads. I'm glad I found this series, hopefully I can learn a thing or two. My brother in law just told me what to get and didn't explain why... And I wanted to know why.
Joel, I am really enjoying this series of videos. I almost got to hate the late duck season down south because I had to wait for the next video. Glad you're back and am looking forward to the next video.
Hevi-Metal 3" 1 1/4 oz #2's - Patternmaster Code Black Duck for goose hunting (Specks and Snows) BOSS 2 3/4" # 5's - Briley's Extended Modified for Ducks. Went through my Full factory, Modified factory, and a Extended Light Full and Extended Modified from Briley's for my SX3. After patterning I thought the Full would be best. It was okay on ducks, so switched back to modified and my shot success went up. So I got the extended modified from Briley's and been happy ever since. Only reason I use the extended is so I can ensure it is seated tight after volley's. Used my Factory Modified in all my guns for years before even trying aftermarket. Never really had a problem with them, but wanted to try some of the aftermarkets. What I settled on is up above. I've not patterned the Patternmaster, but my results on Specks and Snows on kill/cripple ratio convinced me to keep using it. Did discover it was not the choke to use for decoying ducks. I was missing horrible, so back to the factory or the Briley's extended. The one thing I've liked about the after market chokes is the extension. Makes it easy to check for tightness.
Joe.. I'm a 1st timer on your channel & I was lucky enough to be able to hunt waterfowl using lead shot before the ban.. Nothing beats the lead shot of yesterday but with that said in today's waterfowl hunting situations if I am goose hunting I'm rocking my Remington SP 10 Ga shotgun shooting Federal Black Cloud in BB through a .720 Terror choke tube & If I'm duck hunting I'm rolling with my Browning Gold in 12ga shooting Boss 3 inch #3's through my Pattern master Code Black Duck choke tube.. Both setup's are absolutely lights out devastating on duck & geese..
Well I've been round the horn a couple times with choke tubes in different guns for both waterfowl and upland game bird. For waterfowl this is where I landed. I bought a mid '90s Remington Wingmaster Magnum 20 guage. Why 20 guage....because I have only hunted with 20 gauge growing up to mid 30 adulthood. Why an old Remington....because I have an old soul and that's what I like. Now for the answer to this video. My waterfowl gun has a fixed full choke. I've been killing Pheasant with a Remington 1100 20g with factory full choke for many many years. Recently patterned several shells with my gun and found a Boss shell I like a lot. Boss also stated their shells perform well with tighter restrictions. I haven't tested Boss's claim against some of the more open chokes I have, but I can say putting shells on paper with the gun I plan to shoot this season, makes me think they know what they are talking about because I have seen it.
I buy my ammo by the case. 1.5-2 boxes can go to patterning in 2 in the shotguns I use. Best average gun/choke combination becomes my main gun for that case. Could be a Kicks, Carlson, or factory. To be honest, I miss the days of the 30-32" fixed choke barrels though.
I’ve shot Patternmaster for years in both 12 and 20 ga. They did well with most steel loads but I switched to more traditional chokes the last few years while shooting bismuth and have stuck with them. Currently shooting Carlson Cremator and have been happy with it. Has patterned will with most everything I put through it. Steel,bismuth and lead. Pattern you gun you may find cheaper shells shoot better and save yourself some money.
I have decades of shotgun experience and have watched hundreds of videos on this subject and i have to say this is about the best and easiest for someone relatively new to the sport to understand. Your presentation is so clear and concise with no shouty BS. Well done that man, i have just subscribed to the channel.👌👍
I use the factory full choke in my Mossberg 835. It patterns better than anything else i have tried with steel up to BB size. This is a 12 gauge gun with a 10 gauge bore, and the factory full choke is labeled “.730”.
You are the very first person that I actually subscribed to on TH-cam. I mean this as a compliment. Very well done information. Thank You for taking time and sharing. Doing research for a shotgun I bought for my Son's 20th birthday. He is a lefty , choices were limited between Beretta and Winchester SX4 that we liked. Went with Beretta A 400 Extreme Plus 12 Ga. This will be his do all shotgun. We went to NRA show and handed this gun this spring. Now to break some clay birds and have some fun.
Carlsons has good cust service. I noticed that their black cloud series patterned nicer than my normal mid/longs and they told me the only difference is the teflon coting on the black cloud series which gives a little better performance with almost any ammo. Nice honest answer just like the one you got! Now days my wife and I are using Patternmaster code black ducks on our Franchi affinities with Kent Fasteel 2.0 #2 1&1/4 ounce and Boss 3/5 duplex. I have yet to find a factory or aftermarket choke with a more consistent pattern.
I’ve had good results from my beretta using a standard beretta improved cylinder choke with both lead and steel ,I’ve never patterned my gun on paper but have taken note of the spread and how the shot behaves when finishing up cripples and what I have observed early on with steel is that to finish them off I had to aim that fraction higher compared to lead and when the steel hit the water it looked like I was laying out a fly to a trout🤷♂️🤦♂️. I’d never heard about bismuth until I heard you talking about it in some of your earlier videos( I’ve been living under a rock for too long🤣)….you’ve cleared up some patches of ignorance 😉. So when I found out that I could get some to reload i was compelled to get some for this coming season not only to rock out with my older guns that cannot run steel shot but also have that closer to lead knock down that we miss with the cheaper steel shot Great content ….keep up the good work and I’m looking forward to your next video
Hi Joel Not sure if it’s legitimate or a utube hacker but I got a new reply About some kind of prize…it’s written like it was in your own words to a degree with a number to txt to claim it. I’m sorry if it is legitimate you will have to give it to someone else as I don’t live in the same country let alone the same state but I really enjoy the content you release …. It’s awesome
My franchi 912 variomax is pretty much use the factory ic and I’ve got dead ducks at 60 yards with tungsten, my browning bps10 mainly the ic but on long shots the factory modified (imp-mod) and it’s good to 50-60 now my mossberg 535 doesn’t like any thing through the factory’s so I got the crematory normally I only use the mid range and covers almost all my shooting needs. Yes I have patterned all of my guns and verified with on game performance thanks again for your videos!
I use Carlson's extended "sporting clays" chokes mainly because I hate fiddling with a choke wrench 😂. They also seem to throw better patterns on paper than my flush mount chokes generally (Can't afford enough ammo to do extensive testing... for now). Your results may vary - not all factory chokes are created equal.
I'm going with carlson choke tubes. First off I want extended chokes for the ease of use. I have watched Scott do demonstration after demonstration. He also gives the science. I'm sure muller is great but I can get a set of 3 carlson cremator chokes for the price of one muller.
Beretta A400 Extreme and Remington 870 w/ Kicks High Flyer chokes (usually Full, sometimes Modified) shooting Boss 3” #4’s for duck and geese. That’s my combo that works for me with both my semi auto & pump.
This is the best information on you tube about shooting. I dont think it has any diference for choke tubes if you hunt ducks or woodpigeons. Your videos are very helpfull .
Joel, Have you patterned and choke tested the Beretta A400 Xtreme (6" forcing cones) and the Xtreme Plus (14" forcing cones)? Both have what Beretta calls Steelium Plus barrels. I have done so with lead target ammo but very little with steel or nontoxic hunting ammo. I do hunt with a Xtreme. The lead target ammo patterning results with the Xtreme, Xcel and the A400 Multitarget are exceptional. I get light-modified performance with 2 points of constriction. (.002"). I hunt with a Kicks waterfowl choke that's labeled "Modified". It measures10 points of constriction. (.010"). It performs well beyond the range that Kicks recommends for that choke. The patterning in these Beretta guns is driven by the Steelium Plus barrels and not the choke brand or constriction.
it's important to consider the barrel inside diameter. A modified choke on a .729 barrel in 12 ga.will give different results than a modified choke on an overbored barrel. What one manufacturer calls modified could be the same restriction as another manufacturers improved cylinder. The Invector+ flush choke labelled IC on my Winchester Supreme, overbored like all recent brownings, measures .004 restriction, which is almost a cylinder spec. The aftermarket extended Invector+ IC measures .012 restriction, which is tighter. That particular choke has been a favorite of mine for my first barrel using steel shot for decoying ducks at about 25-30 yards, and I have 8 chokes to choose from. A Carlson mid range with .020 restriction is my favorite for the second barrel for longer shots.
I went with the Carlson's cremator . I wanted a ported for some recoil reduction and better follow up shots. And it was the closes constriction to the size I was shooting out of my nova's improved cylinder.
I initially started shooting steel with a 20Ga O/U. Success was even bad for some one as bad a shot as I am. Changed to 12GA and results were better. Then I started reloading steel. Checked out the patterns on the 20 ga and I was lucky to kill anything with it. At least half the shot not even on the paper at 30yd. My 12ga O/U was better but not much. Read an article about using extended chokes for steel in good O/U's. WOW what a difference. Open barrel good to 30+ yds with IM choke. Tight barrel good to 40yds with LF. Check all my potential loads for velocity and pattern. Over 1500fps patterns were unacceptable. Reduced powder, got to 1450fps-1500fps and have several good loads. Now, if I do my job, the ducks hit the water dead. Still miss too many!!
There is a difference in the constriction nomenclature between chokes made specifically for lead and those for non-toxic and steel shot, due to the fact that steel and other harder/heavier-than-lead shot does not "flow" through a choke the same way as lead does. Steel and other htl shot moves through a choke much like water through a garden hose nozzle, where it doesn't compress, unlike lead that being so soft, squeezes together much more readily. This requires a more open choke to achieve the same pattern density at any given range. A modified choke for lead would be a full, for steel/htl shot or even tighter depending on the shot size
Two weeks until teal season in Kansas hopefully this year is better than last. Duck depression is almost over for me and hopefully everyone else. Thanks for another informative video Joel. Looking forward to the more in depth ones
I would really like to see your evaluation done on the Beretta A-400 Extreme Plus. The A-400's come with their own extended choke tubes. Supposedly, the barrels were designed around the choke tubes. Meaning Beretta designed and made the choke tubes first, and then designed their barrels to compliment the choke tubes. I would like to see the slow motion video of those. Are they worth the money???
Kicks - High Flyer Extended in my SBE 12 and 20. Have not patterned them but from mnay years of shooting, I am comfortable without shooting a pattern board. I may go to the rqange soon and pattern them I have a lot of Heavey metal purchased 10 years ago, so that is what I shoot in the 12. Pland to reload some TSS/steel blend soon as I find some powder. Good video as always Steve
Briley Sporting Clays Improved Modified... Benelli Original Super Black Eagle and Browning BPS... Ducks #2 steel... Geese #BBB steel... My go to setup...
I buy Carlson's only because of the availability and hate the factory chokes due to them not extending out of the barrel. Makes it much easier and faster to change out in the feild.
Note that steel shoots tighter than lead and it should provide a tighter pattern an a longer distance. You may want to back off on the choke when using steel.
I thoroughly enjoy the time and research put into your videos. Another great science based youtuber I enjoy is George from the New Hunters Guide. Truly busting the myths with research and science. Thanks again Joel, and pumped for the next!
This was a very well done review. I agree & do myself pattern my shotguns with different chokes & ammo combinations to see what works best. If it’s for pheasant & ducks I find it best to shot some clay targets after the pattern test on paper to make sure it’s real & will work for you. One of my favorite things to do with shotguns is pattern them to see the differences & results for myself.
Pattermaster classic long range for my 20 gauge, and code black duck for my 12 gauge. The patternmaster chokes seem to give me the best pattern uniformity at 30-35 yards.
Learned this the hard way, bb and factory Mossberg full choke is definitely not the way to go, just cause a website forum says it will go. Definitely do more research, got a stuck full choke in the barrel
I can't speak for all but I'm sure I'm not alone on this... The reason I'm not super concerned about patterning is because I shoot all kinds of shells randomly throughout the season/hunt (whatever was cheapest/on sale "oh $10 a box. getting 4 box's federal speed shock BB, What! $9 a box! looks like I'm getting 3 boxes of KENT#3 as well... ") ... Then the ammo shortage it was "OH MY GOD is that a box of steel shot? grab it! Aww... its lead..." So, when I go out, there are times I have literally had 3 different brands and 2 or 3 different shot sizes in my bag. Also, it never fails when I expect them to be close there far or expect them to be far and there close. So, I'm usually changing tubes in the field. I would have to have a dozen choke tubes, a chart to keep track of which tube went to which shells and bring a half dozen tubes and the chart into the field. All that to say I have never patterned a shotgun and the pattern was so bad that I was like "OH GOD! I couldn't even hunt with that!" ... Also, if I drop $100 on a choke tube it's going to have to shoot sideways for me to go "I don't like that one, I'm going to go spend another $100"... So again, all that said to say LOL basically patterning is to find the best posable ammo/choke combination for your gun and give you the best possible chance. If you don't have that scenario of the same shells all the time, and don't have the best possible combination, you can still kill ducks. (As Joel pointed out in this video half didn't pattern the ammo/shells they were using, and I'm sure they were killing ducks) If you miss that duck... It's probably not because it just happened to be perfectly in the hole in your pattern. Odds are you just missed it... (But when you miss you can blame the gun LOL) But, If I ever get to a point that I'm buying one or two brand/shot shells I will find the best choke/shell combo.
Hey Joel, I’m a new subscriber and fixing to go on my 3rd duck season and the first season to go solo. I appreciate you passing on your decades on knowledge!!!
I got 2 Carlson's choke tubes mid and Long range I shot both chokes 3 different ammo and shots mid range at 30 yards was terrible long range on paper was awesome for all 3 ammo
I'm in the UK and enjoying your series on the technical aspects of shotgun shooting , but the stuff on shot string has left me baffled . All the tests are static whilst wildfowling is all about movement, as is all shotgunning with the exception of slugs maybe. Even the slowest cartridge will put all the shot on a target in such a small time frame that the difference between first and last shot strike is minimal Far more important is knowing how your chosen gun , cartridge and choke combination performs . For someone to claim they can effect length of shot string by use of a screw in choke is dubious . We have been shooting shotguns at moving targets for around 200 years , it works , whatever the length of shot string dosent matter , practise putting the pattern on the target is time better spent I would think . With the exception of trap shooting where the target is going directly away from the shooter shot string such as it is an"" effect "" may help given that both gun and target are moving but if the target is in the centre of your pattern and your swing is right clean consistent kills will follow . As a wildfowler ( waterfowler) rough shooter and driven game shooter I've spent time finding the best (For me ) gun , cartridge and choke combination to give me the best chance , again , for me , that is time better spent than worrying about shot string length . Sorry for the lengthy nature of this but it's not an easy topic to be concise about . Stopping the swing is far more detrimental to accurate shooting than shot string, now if they could make a choke to fix that............
I bought the Hevi metal choke tubes for my benelli sbe2 because the benelli chokes always get loose and are not as easy to change. I have one Mid range and one Passing. I think they are Carson's light mod and Carlsons Improved modified. I have patterned them for the Hevi metal loads but those are off the market now. They now sell either Bismuth or Tungsten 12. I use the Benelli IMC choke for upland. I will keep watching to see if I need to change tubes? My problem is I used to try to have only a few different loads but now I have to buy "whats available " . My guess the tubes I have will probably work for most of the loads ??? Thanks for your research.
I bought Carlsons (H&R too…I think Carlson made those)….only because they are widely available and affordable. I just wanted one of each basic choke cyl,skt,ic, mod, full, ext full…) from the same make so I could adjust for my gun/load more appropriately. Are they the best…idk…but at least there’s a consistent difference between them
Good video. Tried a couple different brands. I’ve never really found anything that patterns better than the Benelli Crio choke tubes that come with the gun. Seen so many guys brag how tight their gun will pattern but they can’t really shoot very well to begin with. That tight choke tubes makes a poor shooter even worse. In my Benelli M2 the 2 notch choke tube will throw a really tight pattern if needed for steel. Now I do shoot an aftermarket Carlson’s for Turkey.
I am using Pattern Master midrange Code Black and Anaconda. I have never hit ducks as hard with Steel as I have with the Code Black in my SBE 111. I use stock chokes in my skeet guns. And have them patterned.
The Code Black patterns the very well in my gun. I use a Carlson Cremator in my A5 in full choke for a great pattern. I am discovering patterning matters.
I shoot a beretta A300 Outlander 12ga I got Carlson mid range and long range. I Patterned both of them with Winchester blindside, Remington’s (cheap shell) you know the one with a goose on the box🤣 Heavy shot and black cloud all 3” #2’s at 25 yards Mid range actually held a tighter patt then the long range did and the long range through a diagonal pattern 🤔 Every shell was about the same except the blackcloud it was not every good out of my gun choke combo. Thank for all the videos really enjoying them… P.S. you gonna have to do a test with a 10ga and let Owen do all the shooting 😂🤣😂🤣
I need to know what happens to the shot string when fired from a moving gun, it's intrigued me for years, I also thought along the lines of the car and paper trailer but it think a massive sheet of static paper fired across with a moving gun might throw up some interesting results.......
My two cents. You can take it as a grain of salt. A light modified and an improved modified cylinder for Upland Birds has done great for me. I have taken Birds over 50 yards. I'm also shooting number five lead shot 3 inch shells 12 gauge. I'm getting into the waterfall game now. I'll have to test my theory with some bismuth rounds now
I gotta say it, choose and ammo,choose a choke pattern it. Test it. Use it. Been using a factory modified in my beretta for 25 yrs. Never purchased and aftermarket. No need
What a great series to talk about these things. I’ve gone through more chokes and ammo than I can count and it’s still almost like alchemy. I “feel” that my kicks mod w/#2-4 Blackcloud is best and it patterns well but I don’t have real data on that.
I duck hunt public land so the ducks are a little weary and cover can be further away from my spread. So i been using kicks high flyer full choke on my benelli nova. It works great!
Factory modified Browning inventor plus in my super X2 shooting #2 steel. I didn’t see a noticeable difference between the pattern master my buddy had in his gun (he let me borrow to compare the two) vs the factory choke to 40 and 50 yards.
Hello from greece ,i enjoy ur vids very much ‼️& i can't wait to see ur presentation (data as u said)about the 27 chokes u've got tested‼️ Good work‼️ keep it that way‼️
Patternmaster Code Black Goose, Franchi Affinity 3, try to shoot Boss 3/5 3in., or Boss #2 3in. But if not available it will shoot nearly anything. The combo is like throwing Thors hammer.
I mostly use the factory Improved Cylinder in my Benelli Nova as tje gun seems to have a fairly tight pattern from the factory..and choking the steel shot down isnt always a good thing. The only aftermarket choke i use is a Primos turkey choke when i shoot lead..
I use the modified invector tube that came with my Winchester and I shoot number #2 steel. Either the blue box federal speed shock or the red Winchester super X shells
I went with Carlson, fit my budget and when I shot patterns it was what I wanted it to look like. A nice basketball at 30 yards. Before this I just used factory chokes b/c steel #2,BB just tore up chokes frequently. Why pay so much for a couple years of use ?
What choke tube do you use and why?
Patternmaster code black duck. Think I'd like a mid range classic to open the pattern up a little bit with 3 inch shells.
kicks high flyer
So this will be my first year hunting in south east Mississippi. All my shotguns are hand me downs and the newer ones I didn’t have chokes come with. Is there a certain set of chokes you would recommend for a new duck hunter. I will be hunting divers in open water here on the coast and hopefully find some good management land for some puddle ducks. I know the choke will change the distance of spread like you taught. I’m more referring to are all chokes really created equal and I just need to find the right choke type for my chosen ammo? Or are brands different enough to consider?
Patternmaster code black duck…I tested them all on paper with multiple shells brands (blindside was the best)
Factory mod
For those of us who’s daddy and grandpa didn’t hunt, thank you for being the mentor to teach us these. My son is three so I’m playing catch up on learning this stuff now so I can teach him in a few years. God bless you Joel!
Thanks Kyle. I had no relatives that Duck hunted. I learned either on my own or from older guys who taught me in my late teens early 20s. Priceless stuff from gentleman that cared to pass it forward.
@@SurvivingDuckSeason I’ve got a friend who’s taking me this season for the first time. Looking forward to it.
Way to go teach him the right way, it's a lifetime of leau.
I love you daddy I did grow up hunting with my dad unfortunately I didn't realize until I was older that I should have paid more attention when I was younger
I think it is easy to get caught up in all this technology and lose sight of good fundamentals. It’s the wizard not the wand. That being said. Thank you for you detailed and honest take on shotgunning. You have certainly demystified a lot of this for me.
You are about to pick up sooo many new subscribers. You’re giving the people what they want!! Can’t wait for the next video.
Thanks Josh 💪🏻👍🏻👊🏻
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
I hate to say but I chased the gear and marketing rabbit for a while. I’m a self taught waterfowl hunter so I was the ideal person to buy way to much stuff and chase the greener grass that doesn’t exist. Long story short on choke tubes is they all work just fine 40 yards and in. Which is where 90% of your wing shooting is done. In my mind now after owning a bunch of different guns and tubes for each of those guns after market tubes aren’t worth it for a 12 gauge unless you just have some money to burn in which case power to you. However, I will say aftermarket tubes in a 20 gauge are worth it. I have seen a huge jump in performance. Factory chokes will get you 30-35 yards with a 20 but the right aftermarket for your gun and load of choice can make a 20 gauge a 40-45 yard gun. For my 20 gauge SX4 I have a jebs .585 and at 40 yards there will be 20-30 pellets on a standard sheet of paper with just about any steel load. But you can accomplish that same number with most 12 gauge factory modified tubes. Don’t chase the rabbit save some money and learn to get them close.
Carlson mid range (modified 1" extended) has been the best I've used in 5 different guns and brands. They pattern Lead, steel, and buckshot so well its crazy.
I use the same. The non ported version incase I shoot certain shells
Best in what way?
@@ballisticlt7452 consistent patterns with different shot.
It's almost become a hobby of mine to try different handloads and choke combinations. What I've found so far is that a Light Modified choke gives me the best pattern with #B, #1, and #2 steel as long as the load falls between 1400-1500 fps.
Best in what way?
Most all of the competition shooters will speak on how chokes are a mental handicap. Practice shooting. Have someone knowledgeable set your gun up for YOU. Length of pull, drop at comb etc.. Pickup your gun more often in the off-season. It sure made a difference in my shooting, following that instruction.
Thats pretty typical for most forms of shooting. Usually just the basic gear is completely adequate for the task with the right amount of practice. After that, the aftermarket gear just makes execution of the task more refined.
Thanks from Northern Alberta, Canada, as previously mentioned, some of us didn't have mentors and are starting pretty late in the game.
Sharing the rich history and progression of the sport really Fosters a conservation attitude
YES! Great video! I feel like you are the only other person on the planet that wants to cut through the marketing clutter of the waterfowl industry! Only 2 of out 100+ guys ever patterned their gun and load? That blows a fuse in my brain. Wow.
Thanks George! I’ve been hunting since the 80s and It never occurred to me to pattern my shotgun for ducks til about 10 years ago. Nobody had ever taught me to. Most of my buddies who are avid duck hunters don’t pattern their gun. We’ve got to teach them ‘the way’!
I have patterned my gun, but it is very difficult find a place to do it, gun ranges wont let you shoot waterfowl loads and conservation areas posted no target shooting.
@@paulk6077 not if you already live in duck 🦆 country... Remember it's legal to shoot on the water, that way you don't get steel in the breast... Remember sport and sustinance hunting are completely different, there's a lot of people that are hunting for food and getting raped by all the tags fees and laws... Don't even get me started on public land hunting in a leftist state, I've had some pretty big crybabies try to foolishly Rush a former Marine with a 3 1/2 in magnum loaded up ready to go because they don't like goose tacos or "goo-ssse-ghetti", as much as I. 🤷
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
So glad I found your channel. The most informative and easy to understand one out there. Thanks Joel
Thanks Paul, welcome aboard!
I use the factory Mod Invector choke tube in my SX3. I reload my own ammo and without buying an after market tube I tried them first. 96% pattern at 40yds in a 30" circle is good enough for me.
As far as chokes go I have been able to get them all to pattern well depending on the shell. I have used factory to kicks and Carlsons. And if you pattern your shotgun weather you use factory chokes or buy your own extended chokes you will decrease the amount of wounded birds period. But with that being said, I have really enjoyed using a ported Carlson’s choke with Kent fast Steel. And regardless of any extended choke I have found all of them to hit with more impact, then factory.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
Pattermaster code black goose in my SX4 patterns well with just about everything under the sun and didn’t have but one cripple this year. Idk if it was the shotstring technology or just some lucky pellets but it just flat out performed phenomenal this year. Shot almost 75% on birds ranging from 10-55 yards.
Thanks for your feedback 👍🏻
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
I chose Briley light mod for all around shooting. I found great information and customer service from Briley…and I have been very satisfied with their performance. I primarily shoot Beretta guns
As someone who has been getting more and more into bird hunting, I’m guilty of previously not educating myself on chokes, ammo, etc. However, in the world of shotgunning and bird hunting (especially waterfowl) there is a steeeeep learning curve so I appreciate the manufacturers that “dumb down” some of the information to expedite the process of getting interested parties in the field and getting hooked. Hats off to Carlson’s (shameless plug) for naming their chokes based on what their used for (long range dove choke) but including the IM marking which makes it easy but also educates the consumer. Thanks for your videos, they are super helpful!
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
I use Trulock blackened stainless steel ported extended chokes in my 12 gauge 725 Feather over and under with 26 inch barrels. Use an improved cylinder in my lower barrel and improved modified in my upper barrel. Weighs about 6 pounds 8 ounces and makes the barrel length closer to 27 inch long barrels. My all around shotgun to hunt waterfowl and flushing upland birds. Thanks for posting your video.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
Great video. Chokes do have a purpose and it takes experimenting to determine the best size. Very disappointed in Weatherby's lack of choke choice for their shotguns. Weatherby won't even post a review on their website if there is a negative comment regarding their limited choke selection. When buying a shotgun, know your options.
The reason most full chokes aren't rated for steel shot is that the steel patterns very tightly to begin with. Anything tighter than modified will often over constrict the pattern and not only cause bad patterns but can damage your choke & gun as well.
Well really it’s because lead is soft and has give to it so when it gets constricted it can bend to conform to tighter constrictions than steel bc steel is a much harder metal and doesn’t bend or give when passing thru a choke point at 1500fps. Also with waterfowl you are using large shot like Bb, 1, 2,4, with lead it’s usually 6,7,8 on upland game, bigger harder shot cannot be choked like small soft shot or it could swell a barrel
And crack.. Billman Arsenal sells similar chokes for about half the price on Amazon and eBay
I shoot a light modified sporting clay choke, and use shot size to determine my distance. Smaller shot will give me a more open pattern and larger shot will tighten the pattern.
Style is just as important as pattern. I pattern my ammo and chokes. I like the style of ported chokes.
I've watched a bunch of videos learning to hunt. First year here, and while I am still waiting to get my first duck, I do believe your videos have helped me be able to have taken a few shots every time I've gone out. This shotgun series is what I needed, and has earned my subscription. Keep up the amazing videos!
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
@@7648h Is this the number?
@survivingduckseason is this real?
I changed from factory chokes to Carlson Cremator mid and extended range chokes and noticed a big improvement with my Rem 870. When I upgraded to the Benelli SBE3 I went ahead and got the same Carlson chokes. So far I like the results with a wide variety of shells. And yes, I have put pellets on paper with it too :)
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
Did u use the cremator on the sbe3? If so do u see a difference with the mid n long range cremator with steel if so what is it. Thanks
@@scottducote7389 I personally haven't noticed a big difference from the two, but generally I just run the mid range all season to great effect with steel shells. If I were to get bismuth shells, I'd shoot the long range.
Thanks for the help. I don't hunt currently, but shoot clays occasionally and I have an old Mossberg 500 that I got used and only had a factory modified choke tube in it. I am trying to put together a basic choke tube set for it. I looked at the factory tubes however several were restricted to lead only, so I am getting carlsons extended (non ported) as they are approved for steel and heavi-shot.
I use a mid range waterfowl choke I got at camels. I mainly wanted an extended choke so I didn’t have to fool with the choke tool when I wanted to check that my choke was tight. Good video 👍🦆
I bought the carlsons chokes because it was a cheaper option. I was looking for extended chokes because i like being able to change the chokes with out a choke tool. I ruined a barrel of my favorite gun trying to get a factory flushed choke removed. Even a gunsmith couldn’t get it out. And it was hard to find that barrel and gave up looking for it. Now I religiously clean my gun, barrel, and chokes after every hunt. That is why I recommend extended chokes.
Tough lesson to learn. Good advice!
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
I just bought the Mossberg 940 JM Pro and it came with 3 Briley choke tubes. Can’t wait to take it out and shoot.
I grew up with very little shotgun knowledge, I was a rifle guy. I met my wife and got married and her brother in law (now mine too) is a big duck and geese hunter, and I wanted to get into it. I am so overwhelmed by all the information with choke tubes and different ammo loads. I'm glad I found this series, hopefully I can learn a thing or two. My brother in law just told me what to get and didn't explain why... And I wanted to know why.
Joel, I am really enjoying this series of videos. I almost got to hate the late duck season down south because I had to wait for the next video. Glad you're back and am looking forward to the next video.
Hevi-Metal 3" 1 1/4 oz #2's - Patternmaster Code Black Duck for goose hunting (Specks and Snows)
BOSS 2 3/4" # 5's - Briley's Extended Modified for Ducks. Went through my Full factory, Modified factory, and a Extended Light Full and Extended Modified from Briley's for my SX3. After patterning I thought the Full would be best. It was okay on ducks, so switched back to modified and my shot success went up. So I got the extended modified from Briley's and been happy ever since. Only reason I use the extended is so I can ensure it is seated tight after volley's.
Used my Factory Modified in all my guns for years before even trying aftermarket. Never really had a problem with them, but wanted to try some of the aftermarkets. What I settled on is up above. I've not patterned the Patternmaster, but my results on Specks and Snows on kill/cripple ratio convinced me to keep using it. Did discover it was not the choke to use for decoying ducks. I was missing horrible, so back to the factory or the Briley's extended. The one thing I've liked about the after market chokes is the extension. Makes it easy to check for tightness.
Joe.. I'm a 1st timer on your channel & I was lucky enough to be able to hunt waterfowl using lead shot before the ban.. Nothing beats the lead shot of yesterday but with that said in today's waterfowl hunting situations if I am goose hunting I'm rocking my Remington SP 10 Ga shotgun shooting Federal Black Cloud in BB through a .720 Terror choke tube & If I'm duck hunting I'm rolling with my Browning Gold in 12ga shooting Boss 3 inch #3's through my Pattern master Code Black Duck choke tube.. Both setup's are absolutely lights out devastating on duck & geese..
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
Well I've been round the horn a couple times with choke tubes in different guns for both waterfowl and upland game bird. For waterfowl this is where I landed.
I bought a mid '90s Remington Wingmaster Magnum 20 guage. Why 20 guage....because I have only hunted with 20 gauge growing up to mid 30 adulthood. Why an old Remington....because I have an old soul and that's what I like. Now for the answer to this video.
My waterfowl gun has a fixed full choke. I've been killing Pheasant with a Remington 1100 20g with factory full choke for many many years. Recently patterned several shells with my gun and found a Boss shell I like a lot. Boss also stated their shells perform well with tighter restrictions.
I haven't tested Boss's claim against some of the more open chokes I have, but I can say putting shells on paper with the gun I plan to shoot this season, makes me think they know what they are talking about because I have seen it.
I buy my ammo by the case. 1.5-2 boxes can go to patterning in 2 in the shotguns I use. Best average gun/choke combination becomes my main gun for that case. Could be a Kicks, Carlson, or factory. To be honest, I miss the days of the 30-32" fixed choke barrels though.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
I’ve shot Patternmaster for years in both 12 and 20 ga. They did well with most steel loads but I switched to more traditional chokes the last few years while shooting bismuth and have stuck with them. Currently shooting Carlson Cremator and have been happy with it. Has patterned will with most everything I put through it. Steel,bismuth and lead. Pattern you gun you may find cheaper shells shoot better and save yourself some money.
I have decades of shotgun experience and have watched hundreds of videos on this subject and i have to say this is about the best and easiest for someone relatively new to the sport to understand. Your presentation is so clear and concise with no shouty BS.
Well done that man, i have just subscribed to the channel.👌👍
Thanks so much! I appreciate the support.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
I use the factory full choke in my Mossberg 835. It patterns better than anything else i have tried with steel up to BB size. This is a 12 gauge gun with a 10 gauge bore, and the factory full choke is labeled “.730”.
You are the very first person that I actually subscribed to on TH-cam. I mean this as a compliment. Very well done information. Thank You for taking time and sharing. Doing research for a shotgun I bought for my Son's 20th birthday. He is a lefty , choices were limited between Beretta and Winchester SX4 that we liked. Went with Beretta A 400 Extreme Plus 12 Ga. This will be his do all shotgun. We went to NRA show and handed this gun this spring. Now to break some clay birds and have some fun.
Carlsons has good cust service. I noticed that their black cloud series patterned nicer than my normal mid/longs and they told me the only difference is the teflon coting on the black cloud series which gives a little better performance with almost any ammo. Nice honest answer just like the one you got! Now days my wife and I are using Patternmaster code black ducks on our Franchi affinities with Kent Fasteel 2.0 #2 1&1/4 ounce and Boss 3/5 duplex. I have yet to find a factory or aftermarket choke with a more consistent pattern.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
I’ve had good results from my beretta using a standard beretta improved cylinder choke with both lead and steel ,I’ve never patterned my gun on paper but have taken note of the spread and how the shot behaves when finishing up cripples and what I have observed early on with steel is that to finish them off I had to aim that fraction higher compared to lead and when the steel hit the water it looked like I was laying out a fly to a trout🤷♂️🤦♂️.
I’d never heard about bismuth until I heard you talking about it in some of your earlier videos( I’ve been living under a rock for too long🤣)….you’ve cleared up some patches of ignorance 😉. So when I found out that I could get some to reload i was compelled to get some for this coming season not only to rock out with my older guns that cannot run steel shot but also have that closer to lead knock down that we miss with the cheaper steel shot
Great content ….keep up the good work and I’m looking forward to your next video
Hi Joel
Not sure if it’s legitimate or a utube hacker but I got a new reply
About some kind of prize…it’s written like it was in your own words to a degree with a number to txt to claim it.
I’m sorry if it is legitimate you will have to give it to someone else as I don’t live in the same country let alone the same state but I really enjoy the content you release …. It’s awesome
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
My franchi 912 variomax is pretty much use the factory ic and I’ve got dead ducks at 60 yards with tungsten, my browning bps10 mainly the ic but on long shots the factory modified (imp-mod) and it’s good to 50-60 now my mossberg 535 doesn’t like any thing through the factory’s so I got the crematory normally I only use the mid range and covers almost all my shooting needs. Yes I have patterned all of my guns and verified with on game performance thanks again for your videos!
I use Carlson's extended "sporting clays" chokes mainly because I hate fiddling with a choke wrench 😂. They also seem to throw better patterns on paper than my flush mount chokes generally (Can't afford enough ammo to do extensive testing... for now). Your results may vary - not all factory chokes are created equal.
I'm going with carlson choke tubes. First off I want extended chokes for the ease of use. I have watched Scott do demonstration after demonstration. He also gives the science. I'm sure muller is great but I can get a set of 3 carlson cremator chokes for the price of one muller.
Beretta A400 Extreme and Remington 870 w/ Kicks High Flyer chokes (usually Full, sometimes Modified) shooting Boss 3” #4’s for duck and geese. That’s my combo that works for me with both my semi auto & pump.
This is the best information on you tube about shooting. I dont think it has any diference for choke tubes if you hunt ducks or woodpigeons. Your videos are very helpfull .
Joel, Have you patterned and choke tested the Beretta A400 Xtreme (6" forcing cones) and the Xtreme Plus (14" forcing cones)? Both have what Beretta calls Steelium Plus barrels. I have done so with lead target ammo but very little with steel or nontoxic hunting ammo. I do hunt with a Xtreme. The lead target ammo patterning results with the Xtreme, Xcel and the A400 Multitarget are exceptional. I get light-modified performance with 2 points of constriction. (.002"). I hunt with a Kicks waterfowl choke that's labeled "Modified". It measures10 points of constriction. (.010"). It performs well beyond the range that Kicks recommends for that choke. The patterning in these Beretta guns is driven by the Steelium Plus barrels and not the choke brand or constriction.
it's important to consider the barrel inside diameter. A modified choke on a .729 barrel in 12 ga.will give different results than a modified choke on an overbored barrel. What one manufacturer calls modified could be the same restriction as another manufacturers improved cylinder. The Invector+ flush choke labelled IC on my Winchester Supreme, overbored like all recent brownings, measures .004 restriction, which is almost a cylinder spec. The aftermarket extended Invector+ IC measures .012 restriction, which is tighter. That particular choke has been a favorite of mine for my first barrel using steel shot for decoying ducks at about 25-30 yards, and I have 8 chokes to choose from. A Carlson mid range with .020 restriction is my favorite for the second barrel for longer shots.
I went with the Carlson's cremator . I wanted a ported for some recoil reduction and better follow up shots. And it was the closes constriction to the size I was shooting out of my nova's improved cylinder.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
I initially started shooting steel with a 20Ga O/U. Success was even bad for some one as bad a shot as I am. Changed to 12GA and results were better. Then I started reloading steel. Checked out the patterns on the 20 ga and I was lucky to kill anything with it. At least half the shot not even on the paper at 30yd. My 12ga O/U was better but not much. Read an article about using extended chokes for steel in good O/U's. WOW what a difference. Open barrel good to 30+ yds with IM choke. Tight barrel good to 40yds with LF. Check all my potential loads for velocity and pattern. Over 1500fps patterns were unacceptable. Reduced powder, got to 1450fps-1500fps and have several good loads. Now, if I do my job, the ducks hit the water dead. Still miss too many!!
There is a difference in the constriction nomenclature between chokes made specifically for lead and those for non-toxic and steel shot, due to the fact that steel and other harder/heavier-than-lead shot does not "flow" through a choke the same way as lead does. Steel and other htl shot moves through a choke much like water through a garden hose nozzle, where it doesn't compress, unlike lead that being so soft, squeezes together much more readily. This requires a more open choke to achieve the same pattern density at any given range. A modified choke for lead would be a full, for steel/htl shot or even tighter depending on the shot size
Two weeks until teal season in Kansas hopefully this year is better than last. Duck depression is almost over for me and hopefully everyone else. Thanks for another informative video Joel. Looking forward to the more in depth ones
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
I would really like to see your evaluation done on the Beretta A-400 Extreme Plus. The A-400's come with their own extended choke tubes. Supposedly, the barrels were designed around the choke tubes. Meaning Beretta designed and made the choke tubes first, and then designed their barrels to compliment the choke tubes. I would like to see the slow motion video of those. Are they worth the money???
Kicks - High Flyer Extended in my SBE 12 and 20. Have not patterned them but from mnay years of shooting, I am comfortable without shooting a pattern board. I may go to the rqange soon and pattern them
I have a lot of Heavey metal purchased 10 years ago, so that is what I shoot in the 12. Pland to reload some TSS/steel blend soon as I find some powder.
Good video as always
Steve
Briley Sporting Clays Improved Modified... Benelli Original Super Black Eagle and Browning BPS... Ducks #2 steel... Geese #BBB steel... My go to setup...
Pattern master code black goose for the A400 and a Turkey extra full for my browning are my go to
I buy Carlson's only because of the availability and hate the factory chokes due to them not extending out of the barrel. Makes it much easier and faster to change out in the feild.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
Note that steel shoots tighter than lead and it should provide a tighter pattern an a longer distance. You may want to back off on the choke when using steel.
Just got my first shotgun, Mossberg 500. I have no clue about their factory chokes, but I gotta go and see it on paper.
I thoroughly enjoy the time and research put into your videos. Another great science based youtuber I enjoy is George from the New Hunters Guide. Truly busting the myths with research and science. Thanks again Joel, and pumped for the next!
Yes, I appreciate George as well!
I tried the kicks highflyer and it was too tight for me. I switched to a Carlson’s Cremator Mid range and it works awesome for me
This was a very well done review. I agree & do myself pattern my shotguns with different chokes & ammo combinations to see what works best. If it’s for pheasant & ducks I find it best to shot some clay targets after the pattern test on paper to make sure it’s real & will work for you. One of my favorite things to do with shotguns is pattern them to see the differences & results for myself.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
Pattermaster classic long range for my 20 gauge, and code black duck for my 12 gauge. The patternmaster chokes seem to give me the best pattern uniformity at 30-35 yards.
Learned this the hard way, bb and factory Mossberg full choke is definitely not the way to go, just cause a website forum says it will go. Definitely do more research, got a stuck full choke in the barrel
Can you do a series on buck shot chokes
I can't speak for all but I'm sure I'm not alone on this... The reason I'm not super concerned about patterning is because I shoot all kinds of shells randomly throughout the season/hunt (whatever was cheapest/on sale "oh $10 a box. getting 4 box's federal speed shock BB, What! $9 a box! looks like I'm getting 3 boxes of KENT#3 as well... ") ... Then the ammo shortage it was "OH MY GOD is that a box of steel shot? grab it! Aww... its lead..." So, when I go out, there are times I have literally had 3 different brands and 2 or 3 different shot sizes in my bag. Also, it never fails when I expect them to be close there far or expect them to be far and there close. So, I'm usually changing tubes in the field. I would have to have a dozen choke tubes, a chart to keep track of which tube went to which shells and bring a half dozen tubes and the chart into the field. All that to say I have never patterned a shotgun and the pattern was so bad that I was like "OH GOD! I couldn't even hunt with that!" ... Also, if I drop $100 on a choke tube it's going to have to shoot sideways for me to go "I don't like that one, I'm going to go spend another $100"... So again, all that said to say LOL basically patterning is to find the best posable ammo/choke combination for your gun and give you the best possible chance. If you don't have that scenario of the same shells all the time, and don't have the best possible combination, you can still kill ducks. (As Joel pointed out in this video half didn't pattern the ammo/shells they were using, and I'm sure they were killing ducks) If you miss that duck... It's probably not because it just happened to be perfectly in the hole in your pattern. Odds are you just missed it... (But when you miss you can blame the gun LOL) But, If I ever get to a point that I'm buying one or two brand/shot shells I will find the best choke/shell combo.
Hey Joel, I’m a new subscriber and fixing to go on my 3rd duck season and the first season to go solo. I appreciate you passing on your decades on knowledge!!!
You’re welcome! Have a great season 💪🏻👍🏻👊🏻
I got 2 Carlson's choke tubes mid and Long range I shot both chokes 3 different ammo and shots mid range at 30 yards was terrible long range on paper was awesome for all 3 ammo
Kicks High Flyer! I have the full and the mod, just depends on where I’m hunting. Great videos, I always learn something new!
Pattern master I would love to see your slow motion camera on that. Seems to eliminate shot string and is very hard hitting
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
I'm in the UK and enjoying your series on the technical aspects of shotgun shooting , but the stuff on shot string has left me baffled . All the tests are static whilst wildfowling is all about movement, as is all shotgunning with the exception of slugs maybe. Even the slowest cartridge will put all the shot on a target in such a small time frame that the difference between first and last shot strike is minimal Far more important is knowing how your chosen gun , cartridge and choke combination performs . For someone to claim they can effect length of shot string by use of a screw in choke is dubious . We have been shooting shotguns at moving targets for around 200 years , it works , whatever the length of shot string dosent matter , practise putting the pattern on the target is time better spent I would think .
With the exception of trap shooting where the target is going directly away from the shooter shot string such as it is an"" effect "" may help given that both gun and target are moving but if the target is in the centre of your pattern and your swing is right clean consistent kills will follow . As a wildfowler ( waterfowler) rough shooter and driven game shooter I've spent time finding the best (For me ) gun , cartridge and choke combination to give me the best chance , again , for me , that is time better spent than worrying about shot string length . Sorry for the lengthy nature of this but it's not an easy topic to be concise about . Stopping the swing is far more detrimental to accurate shooting than shot string, now if they could make a choke to fix that............
I bought the Hevi metal choke tubes for my benelli sbe2 because the benelli chokes always get loose and are not as easy to change. I have one Mid range and one Passing. I think they are Carson's light mod and Carlsons Improved modified. I have patterned them for the Hevi metal loads but those are off the market now. They now sell either Bismuth or Tungsten 12.
I use the Benelli IMC choke for upland. I will keep watching to see if I need to change tubes?
My problem is I used to try to have only a few different loads but now I have to buy "whats available " . My guess the tubes I have will probably work for most of the loads ???
Thanks for your research.
I bought Carlsons (H&R too…I think Carlson made those)….only because they are widely available and affordable. I just wanted one of each basic choke cyl,skt,ic, mod, full, ext full…) from the same make so I could adjust for my gun/load more appropriately. Are they the best…idk…but at least there’s a consistent difference between them
Good video. Tried a couple different brands. I’ve never really found anything that patterns better than the Benelli Crio choke tubes that come with the gun. Seen so many guys brag how tight their gun will pattern but they can’t really shoot very well to begin with. That tight choke tubes makes a poor shooter even worse. In my Benelli M2 the 2 notch choke tube will throw a really tight pattern if needed for steel. Now I do shoot an aftermarket Carlson’s for Turkey.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
I am using Pattern Master midrange Code Black and Anaconda. I have never hit ducks as hard with Steel as I have with the Code Black in my SBE 111. I use stock chokes in my skeet guns. And have them patterned.
The Code Black patterns the very well in my gun. I use a Carlson Cremator in my A5 in full choke for a great pattern. I am discovering patterning matters.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
You shoot and SX4 just like me.. factory full and modified work great with boss 3” #3’s and 3” #5’s
Commenting before I watch - I use full for steel and IC for bismuth. Excited to hear what you recommend. Great channel Joel
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
Carlson cremators always patterned great for me and my sx4. They’ve always produced very dense patterns for me.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
I do love the Muller hunting chokes! Works well on my Franchi *patterns as a lt mod*
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
Another great video packed with useful information!
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
Another great video. Thanks again !
I shoot a beretta A300 Outlander 12ga
I got Carlson mid range and long range. I
Patterned both of them with Winchester blindside, Remington’s (cheap shell) you know the one with a goose on the box🤣
Heavy shot and black cloud all 3” #2’s at 25 yards
Mid range actually held a tighter patt then the long range did and the long range through a diagonal pattern 🤔
Every shell was about the same except the blackcloud it was not every good out of my gun choke combo. Thank for all the videos really enjoying them… P.S. you gonna have to do a test with a 10ga and let Owen do all the shooting 😂🤣😂🤣
I need to know what happens to the shot string when fired from a moving gun, it's intrigued me for years, I also thought along the lines of the car and paper trailer but it think a massive sheet of static paper fired across with a moving gun might throw up some interesting results.......
Pick one and learn how to shoot it in any situation!
I shoot kicks high flyer full it throws a damn good pattern with my boss 3/5 blend
My two cents. You can take it as a grain of salt. A light modified and an improved modified cylinder for Upland Birds has done great for me. I have taken Birds over 50 yards. I'm also shooting number five lead shot 3 inch shells 12 gauge. I'm getting into the waterfall game now. I'll have to test my theory with some bismuth rounds now
I gotta say it, choose and ammo,choose a choke pattern it. Test it. Use it. Been using a factory modified in my beretta for 25 yrs. Never purchased and aftermarket. No need
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
What a great series to talk about these things. I’ve gone through more chokes and ammo than I can count and it’s still almost like alchemy. I “feel” that my kicks mod w/#2-4 Blackcloud is best and it patterns well but I don’t have real data on that.
Thanks for your feedback.
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information.
I duck hunt public land so the ducks are a little weary and cover can be further away from my spread. So i been using kicks high flyer full choke on my benelli nova. It works great!
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
Light mod, in my Mossberg 935, and my Beretta 1301. Works great for all game , her in Denmark
Factory modified Browning inventor plus in my super X2 shooting #2 steel. I didn’t see a noticeable difference between the pattern master my buddy had in his gun (he let me borrow to compare the two) vs the factory choke to 40 and 50 yards.
Muller passing choke holds a good pattern for close and far distances
Hello from greece ,i enjoy ur vids very much ‼️& i can't wait to see ur presentation (data as u said)about the 27 chokes u've got tested‼️
Good work‼️ keep it that way‼️
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
Code black goose with heavy metal 3.5 shells are the reach out and get them combo
Patternmaster Code Black Goose, Franchi Affinity 3, try to shoot Boss 3/5 3in., or Boss #2 3in. But if not available it will shoot nearly anything. The combo is like throwing Thors hammer.
Used kicks in my Benelli just got the new maxus 2 and I went with rob roberts T3 gonna try something different
I mostly use the factory Improved Cylinder in my Benelli Nova as tje gun seems to have a fairly tight pattern from the factory..and choking the steel shot down isnt always a good thing. The only aftermarket choke i use is a Primos turkey choke when i shoot lead..
For pattering the proper what is to put a dot on the paper then shoot the paper. Then draw a 30in circle around the densest part of the pattern.
That is certainly one way to do it. I’ll be showing different ways to pattern your combo on the next video. Thanks for watching!
I use kicks, I switch between a mod or full depends on how I’m shooting and where we are hunting
I use the modified invector tube that came with my Winchester and I shoot number #2 steel. Either the blue box federal speed shock or the red Winchester super X shells
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..
I went with Carlson, fit my budget and when I shot patterns it was what I wanted it to look like. A nice basketball at 30 yards. Before this I just used factory chokes b/c steel #2,BB just tore up chokes frequently. Why pay so much for a couple years of use ?
I shoot a briley helix hunter. I shoot the mid range (.020) if birds do it well and shoot the long range (.030) if birds are at range or on geese.
Nice introduction. I look forward to seeing your data and findings
Thanks for the feedback. You’ve been selected among the shortlisted winners of our giveaway. Contact the number above for more information..