Quote:
Originally Posted by John Campbell
Mr. Jay:
First, there isn't much difference in velocity for moderate upland field loads in most any gauge. Thus, the tight chokes are there for another reason in the 20 and 28.
That reason is pattern density.
Because the smaller gauges carry less shot for their bore size (the ridiculous 3" 20-bore excepted) tighter chokes help to keep more pellets within the 30" circle at most game ranges. This reduces wounded birds. If you miss, chances are you'll miss clean. If you hit, it may well be an effective and humane kill. (pardon the obvious oxymoron)
That's not to say an IC choke is ineffective. If you shoot quickly and are spot on, they work just fine. But you must be a bit more skilled.
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John is exactly right. It's all about pattern density. The idea is, as you go to less shot in your pattern, more choke helps maintain sufficient pellet strikes to kill a bird.
Down side is, it takes more skill to wield a smaller pattern. That's where the term; "Expert's Gun" comes from, when applied to small bore shotguns.