Choosing the right choke tube for your Mossberg 20 gauge shotgun can significantly impact your shooting accuracy and success, whether you're hunting waterfowl, clays, or anything in between. This guide dives deep into the world of Mossberg 20 gauge choke tubes, covering everything from understanding choke constrictions to selecting the perfect tube for your specific needs.
Understanding Choke Constrictions
The primary function of a choke tube is to constrict the shot pattern as it exits the barrel. This constriction influences the shot pattern's density and spread. Different choke constrictions are designed for various shooting situations:
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Cylinder: Offers the widest shot pattern, ideal for very close-range shooting, like hunting in dense cover. Provides minimal constriction.
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Improved Cylinder (IC): Slightly constricts the shot pattern compared to Cylinder, offering a balance between range and pattern density. A good all-around choice for various hunting situations.
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Modified (M): Provides a moderate constriction, ideal for hunting medium-to-long range targets like upland birds or rabbits. A popular choice for versatility.
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Improved Modified (IM): Falls between Modified and Full choke, offering a tighter pattern than Modified but still allowing for some shot spread. Suitable for longer-range shooting.
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Full: Produces the tightest shot pattern, maximizing range and pellet density. Best for long-range shooting, such as waterfowl hunting.
Table 1: Choke Constriction Comparison
| Choke Type | Constriction | Shot Pattern Density | Effective Range | Ideal Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cylinder | None/Minimal | Low | Short | Close-range hunting, trap shooting |
| Improved Cylinder | Slight | Moderate | Medium | Upland birds, versatile hunting |
| Modified | Moderate | High | Medium-Long | Upland birds, rabbits, some waterfowl |
| Improved Modified | Moderate-Tight | Very High | Long | Waterfowl, long-range target shooting |
| Full | Tight | Very High | Long | Waterfowl, long-range target shooting |
Identifying Your Mossberg Choke Tube Threading
Before purchasing new choke tubes, it's crucial to identify the threading on your Mossberg shotgun's barrel. Mossberg typically uses one of two main thread patterns:
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Accu-Choke: This is the most common type found on Mossberg shotguns. It's a standardized system, making it easy to find replacement tubes.
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Other Proprietary Systems (Less Common): Some older or more specialized Mossberg models might have different threading. Always check your owner's manual or the barrel itself for markings.
Incorrect threading can damage your barrel. Ensure compatibility before purchasing new choke tubes.
Choosing the Right Mossberg 20 Gauge Choke Tube for Your Needs
The best choke tube for you depends entirely on what you're shooting. Here's a breakdown:
Hunting:
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Waterfowl: A Full or Improved Modified choke is generally preferred for long-range shots at waterfowl. The tighter constriction maximizes pellet density at distance.
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Upland Birds (e.g., Quail, Pheasant): A Modified or Improved Cylinder choke provides a good balance between pattern density and shot spread for these fast-moving targets.
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Turkey: A Full or Extra Full (if available for your model) choke can be used for turkey hunting, but consider the distance to your target and shot size. Too tight a constriction could lead to overly tight patterns.
Sporting Clays/Trap Shooting:
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Trap: The choice often varies depending on personal preference and the specific trap layout. Improved Cylinder, Modified, or Improved Modified are common choices.
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Skeet: Similar to trap, choke selection is subjective. Improved Cylinder and Modified are frequently used.
Case Study: Waterfowl Hunting with a Mossberg 500
A hunter using a Mossberg 500 for waterfowl hunting found that a Full choke consistently provided the best results at longer ranges. He observed denser patterns with the Full choke compared to his Improved Modified choke, leading to a higher kill rate. This highlights the importance of selecting the right choke for specific hunting scenarios.
Maintaining Your Mossberg Choke Tubes
Proper maintenance is key to the longevity and performance of your choke tubes.
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Clean Regularly: After each shooting session, clean your choke tubes thoroughly using a bore brush and solvent. This removes any residue that could impact accuracy or damage the tube.
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Proper Storage: Store your choke tubes in a safe, dry place, away from extreme temperatures and moisture. A dedicated choke tube case is recommended.
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Avoid Forcing: Never force a choke tube into your barrel. If it doesn't screw in smoothly, double-check the threading and seek assistance if needed.
Conclusion
Choosing the correct Mossberg 20 gauge choke tube is crucial for optimizing your shooting performance. By understanding choke constrictions, identifying your barrel threading, and selecting the appropriate choke for your shooting discipline, you can significantly improve accuracy and success. Remember to always prioritize safety and maintain your choke tubes properly for their best possible performance.