Finding the right choke tube for your Mossberg 20 gauge shotgun can significantly impact your shooting performance. Whether you're targeting clays, hunting waterfowl, or pursuing upland game, selecting the appropriate choke drastically affects your shot pattern and accuracy. This guide dives deep into the world of Mossberg 20 gauge choke tubes, helping you understand the different types available, how to choose the best one for your needs, and how to properly maintain your choke tubes for optimal longevity.
Understanding Choke Tubes and Their Impact
Choke tubes are cylindrical devices inserted into the muzzle of your shotgun barrel. They constrict the diameter of the barrel, influencing the shot pattern dispersion. A tighter choke creates a tighter pattern, ideal for longer-range shots, while a more open choke produces a wider pattern, beneficial for closer targets. Mossberg shotguns, known for their reliability and versatility, offer a wide range of choke tube options to suit various shooting disciplines.
Types of Mossberg 20 Gauge Choke Tubes
Mossberg utilizes a standard Accu-Choke system (though some older models may vary), meaning their choke tubes are interchangeable with many other brands using the same threading. Common choke designations and their typical uses include:
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Cylinder: The most open choke, producing a very wide pattern suitable for close-range shooting of smaller, faster-moving targets like close-range clays or close-range hunting.
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Improved Cylinder (IC): Slightly tighter than Cylinder, offering a balance between pattern density and range, often preferred for close to medium-range hunting.
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Modified (Mod): A versatile choke providing a good balance of pattern density and range, making it suitable for a variety of hunting situations and trap shooting.
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Improved Modified (IM): Tighter than Modified, offering increased pattern density and range, ideal for hunting birds at moderate distances.
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Full (F): The tightest choke, producing a concentrated pattern for long-range shooting, primarily used for waterfowl hunting.
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Extra Full (XF): Even tighter than Full, providing maximum pattern density and range, reserved for extremely long-range waterfowl hunting.
Choosing the Right Choke Tube for Your Purpose
Selecting the correct choke tube depends heavily on your intended use:
Hunting
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Waterfowl: Full or Extra Full chokes are typically preferred for waterfowl hunting due to their extended range and dense patterns.
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Upland Birds: Modified or Improved Modified chokes usually provide the best compromise between pattern density and range for upland game birds.
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Turkey: Depending on the distance to the target and your personal preference, a full or extra full choke is generally recommended. However, some hunters prefer using tighter chokes with larger shot sizes for turkeys.
Sporting Clays & Trap
The optimal choke choice for clay shooting varies depending on the specific target presentation and distance. Experimentation with different chokes is key to finding your preference. Modified and Improved Modified are popular choices for many disciplines.
Maintaining Your Mossberg Choke Tubes
Proper care of your choke tubes ensures their longevity and maintains accuracy:
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Clean Regularly: After each shooting session, clean your choke tubes thoroughly with a bore brush and solvent. Remove any residue or build-up.
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Proper Storage: Store your choke tubes in a case or container to prevent damage and keep them organized.
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Avoid Over-Tightening: Tighten choke tubes firmly, but avoid over-tightening, which can damage the threads.
Conclusion
Choosing the correct Mossberg 20 gauge choke tube can significantly improve your shooting experience. By understanding the different choke constrictions and their applications, you can optimize your shotgun's performance for various shooting activities. Remember to clean and store your choke tubes properly to ensure their long-term functionality. Happy shooting!
