Best choke for pheasants??

[Norm1980]

Looking for some help..

I only get out hunting for pheasants once or maybe twice a year, mainly in South Dakota. I have been using an older model Beretta 12ga mag auto (1980 ish), which I've been told has a Full choke. My question is I seem to do ok with it, but I'm wondering if I should look into something with a bigger spread? There is never any shortage of birds to shoot at and most of my shots seem to be with in 30yds. Would it even pay to look for a different barrel for my current gun?? or should I be looking to sell and get a new gun??

[CodyDawg]

I do a lot of pheasant hunting and my logs indicate the last 178 wild birds have been shot with a modified choke (over quite a few years). Early season, late season, it doesnt matter. I would recommend Federal Premium 1 3/8 oz #5 Lead for shells.

Another option is to have a gunsmith install a mobile choke system in your current barrel and screw in whatever you want.

[BirdWhisperer]

I agree with CodyDawg, but STEEL intead of LEAD...for the birds

[gspman]

If most of your birds hit the ground within 30yds of the gun then they are hit 25yds or closer to the gun. IMHO IC is the optimal choice for a 12 gauge gun in that situation. LT Mod is also a good choice.

[fivebucks]

I use improved cylinder until late season and then sometimes I will put the full choke in if most the birds are getting up further away.

[harvey lee]

All depends on if I am using a pointer or a flusher for a dog.

Typically with a pointer and the close shots. I will use an IC choke.

With a flusher that ranges out a ways, the a modified or full choke.

I go that way all season usually.

[CJH]

I agree with Harvey and the similar takes above. IC for the shorter shots, Mod of full for when the birds are flushing further out.

Norm, I'd price it out and then decide whether its worth it to you. Not sure any of us can really say one way or the other, especially if you are having success with your current setup.

[Matt Breuer]

I shoot Mod or Full 99% of the time. Federal Prairie Storm #5's for me for sharpies and pheasants.

[brittman]

Full is probably too tight for most buffered and plastic wadded premium lead (often copper plated) shot shells manufactured today. Pattern your gun and find out for yourself.

For pheasants and sharptails IC. I have shot hundreds of sharptails growing up in ND. They do not run when knocked down. M choke for later season on grouse and pheasants when you need to hit them harder at a little longer range. If they get up close, count a couple seconds.

[muc33]

Call me crazy, but we hunt very close with trained dogs that listen well and don't roam and I hunt with a Remington Premiere over under most of the time and barrel 1 I shoot skeet and IC in barrel 2 for when I miss, but I generally don't take shots over 30 yards or so. More of a personal preference I think. I don't like to hurt birds and not be able to find them. And using this method, I have found better mortality and finding almost every bird. It really comes down to taking smart shots I feel. You have to know your limitations.