Understanding Shotgun Chokes and Markings

For shotgun enthusiasts and game shooters across the UK, understanding shotgun chokes and their corresponding markings is essential for accuracy, safety, and legal compliance. Whether you’re shooting clays, pigeons, or pheasants, knowing your choke setup can make a significant difference in your performance. This post will break down what shotgun chokes are, how to read UK choke markings, and what each choke is best used for.

What Is a Shotgun Choke?

A shotgun choke is a constriction at the muzzle end of the shotgun barrel. It controls the spread of the shot as it exits the barrel, affecting how tight or wide the shot pattern is at various distances.

• Tighter chokes produce a narrower shot spread—better for long-range shooting.

• Looser chokes allow a wider spread—ideal for close-range targets.

Chokes can be fixed (built into the barrel) or interchangeable (screw-in types).

UK Choke Markings Explained

In the UK, choke markings can be found on the side of the barrel (often underneath if it’s an over-and-under or side-by-side shotgun) or on interchangeable chokes themselves. These markings may be:

        • Notches (cuts into the rim of the choke tube)

        • Numerical (fractions like ¼, ½, etc.)

        • Text (e.g., “Full,” “Mod,” “Skeet”)

Common Choke Types and Their Uses

Here are the most common choke types, typically found in UK shotguns, listed from least to most constriction:

Choke Type	Constriction (Approx.)	Typical Marking	Ideal Use
Cylinder (Cyl)	0.00 mm 0.00 in	5 notches or *****l	Close-range (15–20 yards), skeet shooting
Improved Cylinder (IC)	0.25 mm 0.100 in	4 notches or ****	Short to mid-range, upland game
Modified (M)	0.5 mm or 0.020 in	3 notches or ***	Versatile use, pigeons, clays
Improved Modified (IM)	0.75 mm 0.030 in	2 notches or **	Medium to long-range
Full	1.00 mm 0.035 in	1 notch or *	Long-range, duck/goose shooting

These are general guidelines. Shot patterning should always be tested with your specific gun and cartridge combination on a test plate.

Choosing the Right Choke

The right choke depends on your shooting discipline and the range of your target. Here are a few tips:

• Clay shooting: ¼ and ½ chokes are commonly used.

• Pigeon shooting: ½ or ¾ depending on distance.

• Game shooting: ¼ and ½ for walk-up shooting; Full for driven birds at range.

• Waterfowl: Steel shot requires more open chokes; never use Full choke with steel unless rated safe.

Safety and Legal Considerations

1. Steel vs. Lead Shot: When using steel shot (mandatory in many areas and soon across the UK), use chokes that are steel-safe and avoid tight constrictions like Full unless marked compatible.

2. Proof Marks: Ensure your shotgun is proofed for the type of ammunition and chokes you’re using—especially important for steel or high-pressure cartridges.

3. Changing Chokes: Always ensure the gun is unloaded before changing chokes. Use proper tools and avoid over-tightening.

Final Thoughts

Understanding choke types and markings is a vital skill for any shotgun owner in the UK. It not only enhances your accuracy and effectiveness in the field but also ensures your shooting remains safe and within legal boundaries. Always pattern test your shotgun with your chosen cartridges and chokes—because the paper never lies.

If you’re unsure what chokes your shotgun has, consult the manual or a gunsmith. And remember, the right choke is the one that puts pellets where you need them—every time.