Waterfowl hunting with a 20 gauge demands precision, versatility, and reliable choke tubes. The right choke can tighten patterns at range and still perform in thick cover. Below are five highly-relevant 20 gauge choke tubes and accessories from trusted brands, selected for compatibility with common waterfowl platforms and proven field performance. Use this guide to compare options for ducks, geese, and mixed-waterfowl hunts.
| Product | Brand | Recommended For | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patternmaster Code Black Duck 20 GA (5375) | Patternmaster | Benelli Crio Plus setups, waterfowl versatility | Link |
| Patternmaster Code Black Duck 20 GA (5374) | Patternmaster | Benelli/Beretta Mobile, general waterfowl | Link |
| Patternmaster Code Black Duck 20 GA (5378) | Patternmaster | Remington platforms, versatile waterfowl use | Link |
| Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 GA for Winchester – Browning Inv – Moss 500 (Improved Cylinder, 0.610) | Carlson’s | Winchester, Browning Invector, Mossberg 500—improved cylinder | Link |
| Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 GA for Winchester – Browning Inv – Moss 500 (Full, 0.590) | Carlson’s | Full constriction for dense patterns | Link |
Introduction to selecting a choke tube for waterfowl in 20 gauge: look for compatibility with your shotgun model, the recommended constriction, and the pattern performance reported by experienced hunters. The tubes below emphasize versatility, tight patterns at practical waterfowl ranges, and durable construction in 17-4 stainless steel. Always consult your firearm manufacturer’s guidance for recommended choke sizes and safe use with specific shells.
Patternmaster Code Black Duck 20 GA (5375)
The Code Black Duck line is designed for broad waterfowl versatility. This 20 gauge choke tube aims to shorten the shot string with a patented stud ring design, helping deliver dense loads when the target is at ranges up to 60 yards. The tube offers pattern options that resemble a full pattern when using 2 3/4″–3″ shells, making it suitable for ducks in timber or geese in open fields. It is not intended for slug ammunition, and gun compatibility information is visible in the product imagery.
Patternmaster Code Black Duck 20 GA (5374)
Similar to the 5375 variant, the 5374 Code Black Duck emphasizes versatility, with a design that supports turning a single tube into a multi-purpose option for a range of waterfowl setups. The assembly is built to shorten the shot string and improve hit consistency when firing 2 3/4″–3″ shells. This tube aims to strike a balance between tighter patterns and broad-range capability, suitable for blended marsh hunts and field decoys alike. Always verify gun compatibility for your platform before use.
Patternmaster Code Black Duck 20 GA (5378)
This Code Black Duck variant reinforces Patternmaster’s emphasis on pattern control for waterfowl hunting. With the same core design philosophy—shortened shot strings and effective distribution across major waterfowl species—it suits a variety of Remington platforms. The tube’s pattern options are described to closely resemble a Full pattern when using mid-to-long-range shells. As with other Patternmaster products, avoid slug ammunition and ensure shotgun compatibility prior to installation.
Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 GA for Winchester – Browning Inv – Moss 500 (Improved Cylinder)
Carlson’s improves Winchester, Browning Inv, and Mossberg 500 platforms with a flush-mount Improved Cylinder choke tube at 0.610 inch diameter. This constriction is a classic choice for open-water and marsh environments where broader, more forgiving patterns aid in closing fast-moving shots. Carlson’s 30 years of patterning data back this model, offering a balance between shot pattern and practical hunting distance for waterfowl enthusiasts using 20 gauge configurations.
Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 GA for Winchester – Browning Inv – Moss 500 (Full)
The Full choke, at 0.590 diameter, is designed to deliver the tightest practical pattern for 20 gauge shotguns under field conditions. It is compatible with steel and lead shot, with some limitations on steel shot sizes larger than #BB or speeds over 1550 fps depending on the tube. This option is ideal when shooting longer-range ducks or when you want maximum density at known distances. Always consult the choke-tube instructions for safe use with your shells.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For 20 Gauge Waterfowl Chokes
- Shot string and pattern density: In waterfowl, multiple patterns may suit different ranges. Look for tubes that shorten the shot string and keep a dense pattern across common duck and goose ranges.
- Shell compatibility: Confirm the tube’s compatibility with 2 3/4″ and 3″ shells, and verify that slug or heavy magnum rounds are not recommended unless specified by the manufacturer.
- Shot type and size: Steel, lead, and Hevi-Shot compatibility vary by choke. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance to avoid damage or unsafe use.
- Platform compatibility: Ensure the choke is compatible with your shotgun’s model family (Benelli, Winchester/Browning Inv, Mossberg 500, Remington, etc.).
- Durability and material: Stainless steel construction, like 17-4 stainless, offers corrosion resistance and long life in field conditions.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and inspection help maintain performance, especially after waterfowl hunts where moisture and debris are common.
- Cost and value: Consider the versatility of a choke versus a specialized option; the right tube often reduces the need for multiple chokes.
- Pattern testing: If possible, test patterns with your specific load to verify performance at typical hunt distances before heading to the marsh.
This selection emphasizes versatility and compatibility for 20 gauge waterfowl shotguns, with options from Patternmaster and Carlson’s that cover a broad range of platforms and hunting scenarios. Hunters should assess their local waterfowl targets, typical range estimates, and the firearm’s platform to pick a choke that offers dependable, field-tested performance.
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