Measuring choke
 

sorry if this topic has been beat to death but I didn't find it with search. My questions are what is a good tool to measure the choke? Can one tool measure all gauges? Thank you

Mike;
There are a number of bore gauges out there- Galazan sells one as do a number of other manufacturers. You need to find the ID of the bore at least 6-8" back then the ID of the choke for the last 2" at least then subtract for the constriction. Those brass plug gauges that you stick in the muzzles are close but don't really give a true reading of constriction.

Mike:
To do the job accurately, you need an inside mic/dial indicator style tool. Brownell's has a choice. The "Skeet's" are fine for doing this job, and fairly inexpensive. Just follow the directions with the tool. You might need special attachments to do 10-bore or 28 and smaller. But it all depends. Check 'em out.

Commonly available "plug gauges" are not accurate.

I think having a way to measure choke would be a good idea when it comes to buying a gun. I saw one for sale from Brownells. Anyone know about it?

The Brownells bore gauge is good for the money at around $100. But it will not do 10g. and will not do .410

For doing all gauges there are other fine choices out there. I do really like the Hosford gauge. but at $900, yikes!

Buy two Skeet's micrometers from Brownells and you will be able to measure 12-16 and 20-28. You will have about $200 invested. Galazan's almost $500 micrometer will measure 28-10 in one package.

I think you will find the "Bore Master" by the Robert Louis Co. to be the most convenient to carry around gun shows and exhibitor's tents. having a max. depth of 6" it will measure the chokes and chambers of ALL popular gauges.

I have the Bore Master and find it difficult to get repeatable readings with it's only 2 points of contact as opposed to my other dial gauges having 3 points of contact. It is handy for a quick assessment though.

There is a lot more to a $10,000 shotgun barrel than 6 inches at each end.

As I understand Mike's initial post, he is concerned with measuring the choke.

Technically, I prefer Jon Hosford's tools above all others.... but they are a rather cumbersome set to lug around.

The only bore gauge that I know anything about is the Bulley. The one I have only measures 12 and 16. He makes another one for 20 and 28. Mine seems well made a gives repeatable measurements. Bore and choke constriction measurements are easily obtained. I have not measured pit depth but it should do well on ones that are not tiny. He has a you tube demo but I do not have the link. Bob

I have a pair of Skeets which will together will measure from 28 to 10 gauge. I also have Hosford's new $800 gage which will measure with high accuracy from 28 to 10 and with good accuracy, 8 gauge.

The Skeets gages are functional but the Hosford is better. How much? The Hosford is like AH compared to a VH. Both will get the job done...

Mark

If one is looking for a duck or goose gun then the last 6" does matter.