A choke is a constriction at the end of the barrel of a firearm, typically a shotgun. Its purpose is to control the spread of the shot as it leaves the barrel, allowing for more accurate shooting at longer ranges. The degree of constriction can be varied with different chokes, with a full choke providing the tightest constriction and the most focused shot pattern. Chokes are used in hunting and shooting sports, where the ability to accurately hit a target at a specific range is important.
Shooting a steel shot or any steel pellet is not recommended through a full choke. Steel shot is designed to be shot through a modified or improved cylinder choke. Firing steel shot through a full choke could cause excessive wear and damage to your gun.
Types of Chokes
Several types of chokes can be used in a shotgun, each with a different degree of constriction. The most common types of chokes are:
Full choke
This is the tightest constriction and provides the most focused shot pattern, making it effective for shooting at longer ranges.
Modified choke
This has slightly less constriction than a full choke and produces a less focused shot pattern. It is often used for shooting at medium ranges.
Improved cylinder choke
This has even less constriction than a modified choke and is typically used for shooting at short ranges.
Skeet choke
This is a very open choke with minimal constriction and is used in the skeet shooting discipline where the targets are close range and moving quickly.
Cylinder bore
This has no constriction and produces the most dispersed shot pattern. It is often used for shooting at very close range or for shooting slugs (solid projectiles) rather than shooting.
It is important to note that the specific constriction of each type of choke can vary between manufacturers.
Compatibility of Steel Shot With Full Choke
Steel shot is a type of ammunition made from small steel balls. It is often used as an alternative to lead shot, as it is less toxic and can be used in areas where lead shot is prohibited. However, a steel shot is generally not recommended for use with a full choke due to the potential for damage.
The tight constriction of a full choke can cause the steel shot to deform as it passes through the barrel, potentially damaging the barrel and the choke itself. This can lead to reduced accuracy and potentially even dangerous malfunctions. Some firearm manufacturers specifically prohibit using steel shot with a full choke, as it may void the warranty or even be unsafe.
When shooting a steel shot, it is generally recommended to use a choke with a more open constriction, such as a modified choke. This can help prevent damage and ensure that the firearm functions properly. It is also important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific firearm type.
Alternative Options
A few alternatives may be worth considering if you want a steel shot with a full choke. These include:
Using a choke with a more open constriction
As mentioned earlier, using a choke with a more open constriction, such as a modified choke, can help prevent damage to the barrel and choke when shooting a steel shot.
Using alternative materials
A few alternative materials can be used in place of steel shot and are compatible with a full choke. These include bismuth and tungsten, denser than lead and less likely to deform when passing through a full choke.
It is important to note that these alternative materials may be more expensive than steel shot and may not be as widely available. It is also worth checking the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific firearm being used, as some materials may not be suitable for all shotguns.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to shoot steel shot through a full choke, but it may not be advisable due to the potential for damage to the barrel and choke. Some manufacturers may even specifically prohibit using steel shot with a full choke. As an alternative, consider using a choke with a more open constriction or alternative materials, such as bismuth or tungsten, which are compatible with a full choke. It is always important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and use caution when using firearms.
