Field Guide / Shot Sizes & Chokes
Modified Choke
Also called: modified, MOD, half choke
The classic all-purpose choke: tight enough for pheasants and ducks at moderate range, and a common limit for steel in guns and choke tubes rated for it.
- Type
- Chokes
- Constriction (12 gauge)
- About 0.020 inch
- Pattern at 40 yards
- About 60% in a 30-inch circle
- Best range
- About 30 to 40 yards
- Used for
- Upland birds, Ducks & geese, Clays
Safety: Use steel shot only in choke tubes marked for steel and in guns rated for it. Tight chokes with steel can damage a barrel, so follow your shotgun's manual.
What it is good for
- Pheasants and longer upland shots.
- Ducks with steel, where the choke is rated for it.
- A general-purpose choice for one gun.
Where it falls short
- Too tight for very close birds.
- Not tight enough for turkeys.
- May be open for long goose shots.
Tips
- Modified is a common choke to use with steel for ducks.
- Pattern your gun with each load.
Works well with
- Steel Shot: modified is a common limit for steel in many guns.
- #4 Shot: a common size for pheasants and ducks.
Field notes
Modified is called a half choke by some. It is a very popular choice because it handles many jobs reasonably well.
Related guides
Pellet counts, patterns, and ranges are typical figures, not guarantees. Pattern your own shotgun with your own loads at the distances you hunt, and follow the shotgun manual for which shells and chokes are safe. Nonlead shot rules and legal shot types differ by state and area; our state resources directory links to each state's official regulations.