Selecting an appropriate choke for a 12-gauge shotgun when pursuing doves significantly influences shot pattern density and effective range. This involves understanding the typical flight patterns and distances at which doves are engaged. For instance, a more open choke, like Improved Cylinder or Skeet, may be suitable for closer shots common in early season or over decoys, while a tighter choke like Modified or Light Modified can prove advantageous for longer shots typical of late-season pass shooting.
Optimized shot patterns, achieved through informed choke selection, contribute directly to cleaner harvests and reduced crippling losses. Historically, hunters relied on trial and error to determine appropriate choke constrictions, but modern advancements in choke design and patterning technology offer more predictable results. The ability to consistently place an adequate number of pellets on target enhances ethical hunting practices and increases overall hunting success.