Choke is a wonderful tool, if used properly. Choke constriction can make a small bore's pattern density the equal of a big bores', especially at the core. Density and individual pellet energy is what kills birds, not bore size. Four pellets delivered to the vitals of a dove or quail from a small bore have exactly the same ability to disable and kill as four pellets from a big bore, given identical pellet weights, construction and velocity.
The way the smaller bores can (and do) deliver the same density is by utilizing a greater amount of choke constriction. This, of course, decreases the overall size of the pattern which requires more skill in placing the pattern on the bird. Therein lies the challenge to the gunner.
I believe in the ethical taking of game, and over the years have scrutinized my ability to take small game birds with a .410 closely. I don't "stretch it" when it comes to range. My .410s, with my .73 ounce handloads of nickel plated 8s are solid performers out to 30-35 yards on doves, a bit less on quail, because of the need to drive pellets up through the body into the vitals, from the rear usually.
I don't look down on anyone who makes a rational and ethical choice of gun and loads for game birds or ducks. I love my 16s and 12s, and shoot the 12s more than any other gauge, by far. It just seems to me to be a big waste of resources and recoil when I see guns on a dove field, or in the quail woods, using 1 1/8 oz. of shot to kill a little bird of a few ounces weight, when 1 1/4 oz. will deck any big duck that ever flew. Not pointing fingers at anyone in particular, of course, but I have watched this in amazement here, for many, many years. JMOBOE.
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