Matching Choke to Your Quarry
For example, someone hunting small, fast birds would generally use an improved cylinder or modified choke, which creates a broad shot pattern that spreads quickly at close ranges. Conversely, someone hunting a larger, less mobile bird, such as a turkey, would select a full choke, which concentrates the shot in a tighter pattern. Pellet size also varies based on the size of the game. The chart below suggests choke and shot sizes for a variety of game. It is intended only as a guide—choice of choke and shot size may vary depending on ammunition, target distance, and hunting conditions.
| Quarry | Suggested Choke | Suggested Shot Size |
|---|---|---|
| Goose | Modified or Full | Steel 2, 1, BB (over decoys) Steel BB, BBB, T (pass shooting) |
| Duck | Modified or Full | Steel 6, 4, 3 (over decoys) Steel 3, 2 (pass shooting) |
| Turkey | Full or Extra Full | Lead 4, 5, 6 |
| Pheasant | Improved Cylinder or Modified | Lead 6, 7½ (over dogs or in heavy cover) |
| Modified or Full | Lead 4, 5, 6 (in corn fields, long range) |
|
| Grouse | Improved Cylinder or Modified | Lead 7½ or 8 |
| Woodcock, rail, or snipe | Improved Cylinder or Modified | Lead 8 (in heavy cover) Lead 7½ (open areas) |
| Dove | Improved Cylinder or Modified | Lead 7½ or 8 Steel 6 (in waterfowl areas) |
| Quail | Improved Cylinder or Modified | Lead 7½ or 8 |
| Rabbit | Improved Cylinder or Modified | Lead 5 or 6 |
| Squirrel | Modified or Full | Lead 5 or 6 |