Choosing the right choke tube for your Mossberg 500 20 gauge shotgun is crucial for successful turkey hunting. This guide dives deep into the world of Mossberg 500 20 gauge turkey chokes, helping you select the optimal choke for your hunting needs and maximize your chances of a successful harvest. We'll cover everything from understanding choke constriction to identifying the best choke for different ranges and shot sizes.
Understanding Choke Tubes and Constriction
A choke tube is a device inserted into the end of your shotgun barrel to control the shot pattern. The tighter the choke, the narrower the shot pattern at the target. This translates to tighter groupings at longer ranges but potentially a denser pattern at closer distances. Mossberg 500 shotguns are known for their versatility and aftermarket choke tube compatibility, making it easy to tailor your setup for your specific hunting situation.
Types of Choke Constrictions:
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Full Choke: Provides the tightest pattern, ideal for long-range shots (40+ yards). Expect a very narrow spread, maximizing the chance of hitting a distant turkey, but decreasing effectiveness at close range.
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Extra Full Choke: Even tighter than a full choke. Generally only recommended for extremely long-range shots and experienced shooters. The risk of keyholing (the shot deforming in flight) is higher with extra full chokes.
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Modified Choke: A good all-around choice, offering a balance between pattern density and shot spread. Effective at moderate ranges (30-40 yards). A popular option for most turkey hunters.
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Improved Cylinder Choke: Offers a wide shot pattern, best for close-range shots (under 30 yards) where a wider spread is necessary to ensure a hit. Less useful for turkey hunting at longer ranges.
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Improved Modified Choke: Falls between a modified and improved cylinder, offering a balance between range and pattern density.
Choosing the Right Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Turkey Choke
The ideal choke for your Mossberg 500 20 gauge depends on several factors:
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Shooting Distance: Are you hunting turkeys in close quarters or at longer ranges? Longer ranges necessitate tighter chokes.
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Shot Size: Larger shot sizes (e.g., #4, #5) generally benefit from tighter chokes, while smaller shot sizes (#6, #7) might perform better with slightly more open chokes to increase the effective range.
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Shot Type: The type of shot (lead, tungsten, etc.) also impacts pattern density. Heavier shot generally needs a less constricted choke.
Recommended Chokes for Different Ranges:
| Range | Recommended Choke | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Under 30 yards | Improved Cylinder or Improved Modified | Wider patterns for close-range shots |
| 30-40 yards | Modified | Good all-around choice, balance of range and density |
| 40+ yards | Full or Extra Full | Tight patterns for long-range accuracy, but less forgiving |
Pattern Testing: The Key to Success
No matter what choke you choose, pattern testing is essential. This involves shooting your shotgun at a target (at various ranges) to see how the shot pattern distributes. This allows you to determine if the choke is appropriate for your firearm and shooting style.
How to Pattern Test:
- Use a target large enough to show the entire shot spread (a 3ft x 3ft piece of cardboard is ideal).
- Shoot several rounds from a rest at your intended hunting distance.
- Measure the pattern's diameter, paying attention to how the pellets are distributed.
A consistently dense pattern in the center of your target indicates a well-functioning choke and proper shot placement. Adjust your choke or shooting technique if the pattern is not as desired.
Case Study: Hunter Success with a Modified Choke
A fellow hunter, Mark, consistently struggled with long-range shots while turkey hunting with his Mossberg 500 20 gauge. He initially used a full choke but experienced inconsistent results, sometimes even missing. After switching to a modified choke and practicing his patterning, Mark dramatically improved his accuracy and consistently harvested turkeys out to 35 yards.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Turkey Choke
The perfect Mossberg 500 20 gauge turkey choke isn't one-size-fits-all. Consider factors like your hunting style, preferred shooting range, and shot size, and don't neglect the importance of pattern testing. By carefully selecting and testing your choke, you'll significantly increase your chances of a successful turkey hunt. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you shoot and understand your weapon, the more consistent your performance will be.