Shotgun Polyshocks: Improve your Dispersion with Every Shot

A choke is a metal tube that screws into the muzzle end of a shotgun barrel. Its primary function is to control the spread of the shot pattern as it leaves the barrel. By adjusting the degree of constriction, the shooter can tighten or widen the spread depending on the intended distance and target.

How does a choke work?
When a shotgun shell is fired, the pellets naturally spread out. A choke acts like a funnel, tightening this spread.

A tighter (more constricted) choke keeps the pellets closer together for long-range accuracy.

A more open choke allows the shot to spread wider, which is better for short distances or fast-moving game.

Which choke for which distance?
This depends on your shooting range, type of target or game, and ammunition. As a general guide:

**Cylinder (no constriction / ***): under 20 meters

Improved Cylinder (****): around 24 meters

Modified (*):** around 28 meters

Improved Modified ():** up to 35–37 meters

Full (*): up to 45–50 meters

The best choice always comes from testing your shotgun with different chokes and loads to find what gives the best performance for your needs.

To choose the correct choke, it’s crucial to identify the choke family or thread type your shotgun is built for. There are several methods to determine this:

1. Barrel markings:
Check the area near the barrel’s caliber stamp. For Beretta, Benelli, and Franchi shotguns, look for indicators such as:

OB → Optima-Choke

OB HP → Optima-Choke High Performance

3½" → Optima-Choke Plus

No marking or PB / ST → Mobilchoke

2. Choke engraving:
Most factory chokes are engraved with both the choke family (e.g., MOBIL, OB HP) and the constriction level (e.g., FULL, MOD, IC). This can be used as a direct reference.

3. Physical measurement:
Measure the length from the start of the threads to the choke's end. For extended chokes, measure only to the end of the internal portion inside the barrel. Then compare with dimension charts to identify the choke system.

4. Manufacturer’s manual or support:
If unsure, always check your shotgun’s user manual or contact the brand or a specialist retailer. Each shotgun model supports only one specific choke system.

Yes — but only if the thread pattern and gauge are fully compatible. Different brands use different choke systems. Here are some common examples:

Known compatibility examples:
Mobilchoke: used in many Beretta, Benelli, Franchi, Stoeger, ATA Arms models

Optima-Choke / Optima HP / Optima Plus: exclusive to certain Beretta models

Invector / Invector Plus: for Browning and Winchester

Rem Choke, Tru-Choke, Crio: found on Remington, some Mossberg, and Benelli Crio series

What to verify:
Shotgun gauge (12, 20, 28, .410)

Choke family (Mobil, Optima, Invector, etc.)

Thread location and length — internal (flush) or extended (external)

Manufacturer specs or choke compatibility charts

Using an incompatible choke can damage the barrel or pose a serious safety risk.

At Carbin Store, we offer different choke types — not just by constriction, but also by design, functionality, and application. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Flush chokes (internal):
Sit flush with the barrel

Offer a clean, traditional look — ideal for hunting

Require a choke wrench to change

Lightweight and low profile

2. Extended chokes (external):
Protrude slightly from the barrel

Can be changed quickly by hand

Clear markings or color-coded tips for easy ID

Slight added weight for improved balance and control

3. Ported chokes (vented):
Feature side ports to vent gases

Help reduce recoil and minimize muzzle rise

Popular in clay shooting disciplines like skeet or trap

Slightly louder due to venting

4. Special finishes and design editions:
Options include Black Edition, Inox, Cerakote, camouflage, etc.

Provide improved corrosion resistance and a custom look

Same internal performance, with better external durability

Materials & manufacturing:
All chokes offered by Carbin Store are made of hardened stainless steel, precision-machined with CNC technology, and treated to resist corrosion. Many feature laser engravings, color codes, or specialized markings for quick reference.