Choke tube performance: extended vs flush

[elktrout]

Is there any difference in patterns between Browning Invector DS flush choke tubes vs Invector DS extended tubes of the same constriction? I am especially interested in any performance difference with size 8 and size 7-1/2 shot.

 

[entropy]

No; but the extended ones are much easier to change. No tools needed.

 

[ColtPythonElite]

No difference in patterns. Like entropy said, they are easier to get out. On top of that, they protect the barrel in case you accidentally bang the muzzle on the ground. This is especially helpful if its the concrete you stand on at a trap or skeet field when you have a barrel banging mishap.

 

[jmr40]

For what you want to do probably not, but in theory yes. A longer tube means the constriction is more gradual which can mean more consistent patterns. But the extra full chokes used by turkey hunters need to extend beyond the muzzle. Those choke down so tight that it is best to have a longer, tube for more gradual constriction.

 

[sequins]

I like extended choke tubes as I like long barrels anyways and always want tge longest.

No one ever says flush is better, some say extended is better because its more gradual.

The pattern board and 5 or so shells through each choke will tell you what you need to know

 

[rdnktrkr]

Ditto the pattern board knows, I've found some shotguns have a hole in their pattern with some chokes and a nice pattern with the same size chokes but a different mfg or length

 

[Bill M.]

Little, if any at all, difference in patterns, Weigh more. Easier to identify what is in gun. Easier to change. Protects the muzzle a little. Of course they advertise improved patterns and more even patterns and maybe even magic patterns. I have had both flush and extended for 6 different guns and prefer the extended for the reasons listed above. Not so much the patterning differences.

 

[PapaG]

Most of the performance differences are in your mind. I use fixed full from 16 to "back fence" yardages. And have done quite well since '75.

 

[earlthegoat2]

Many studies of chokes have concluded that the thing that makes the biggest difference between chokes is the difference between actual bore diameter and final choke diameter.

Everything else matters some but very little.

As has been said, the pattern board will tell you where you really stand. Nothing else can.

 

[cdb1]

I use extended chokes, the reasons have pretty much all been stated above.
They protect the crown
It’s easy to tell which choke is installed
Easier to remove.

I read somewhere a few years ago that extended chokes often improve patterns when large size steel shot is used. Other than that I don’t believe it makes a difference.

Browning/Winchester factory chokes have a reputation(deserved IMO) for being subpar quality. I can’t speak to DS chokes but my Browning/Winchester Invector+ chokes do not pattern as well as my Carlson’s and Trulock Invector+ chokes. I have one Browning and four Winchesters, as a result I’ve got a fair amount of money invested in after market chokes.

 

[Barnfixer]

I use extended chokes, the reasons have pretty much all been stated above.
They protect the crown
It’s easy to tell which choke is installed
Easier to remove.

I read somewhere a few years ago that extended chokes often improve patterns when large size steel shot is used. Other than that I don’t believe it makes a difference.

Browning/Winchester factory chokes have a reputation(deserved IMO) for being subpar quality. I can’t speak to DS chokes but my Browning/Winchester Invector+ chokes do not pattern as well as my Carlson’s and Trulock Invector+ chokes. I have one Browning and four Winchesters, as a result I’ve got a fair amount of money invested in after market chokes.

I do prefer extended chokes also. I’ve also had good luck with carlson and trulock too. My newest browning has invector plus Midas chokes that pattern real nice. But I’ve had some chokes of various “top end” brands that didn’t pattern worth a dam.

 

[Bokkin2]

I personally like the extended chokes. A few years back i bought a pattern master for my benelli and pattern is very nice

 

[gpb]

I prefer the extended choke tubes for my single barrel and over/under shotguns. The extended tubes make checking tightness and confirming the selected choke quick and easy.

However, I prefer flush tubes on my side-by-sides. It's a matter of esthetics. To me at least, extended tubes just don't look right on side-by-side shotguns.