Hunting waterfowl with a 20 gauge requires careful attention to choke selection, shell length, and pattern control. The right choke tube can tighten patterns at typical waterfowl ranges while preserving enough payload to bring down ducks and geese cleanly. Below, five top-rated 20 gauge choke tubes—designed for waterfowl use and compatible with popular shotgun models—are highlighted with their key features and suitability for different hunting scenarios.
| Product | Brand | Key Use |
|---|---|---|
| Code Black Duck 20 Gauge | Patternmaster | Versatile patterning for various waterfowl and upland targets |
| Code Black Duck 20 Gauge for Benelli/Beretta Mobile | Patternmaster | Wide compatibility for Benelli and Beretta platforms |
| Code Black Duck 20 Gauge for Remington | Patternmaster | Same versatile design with Remington compatibility |
| Carlson’s 20 Gauge for Winchester/Browning/Moss 500 | Carlson’s | Standard full/constriction options for classic shotguns |
| Anaconda Mid Range 20 Gauge | Patternmaster | Mid-range pattern with gas-over-constriction for versatility |
Note: This guide focuses on 20 gauge choke tubes that are effective for waterfowl, with attention to compatibility and performance across common shotgun models. Patterns vary by load, range, and gun, so test patterns in a safe area before hunting.
Patternmaster Code Black Duck for Benelli/Crio Plus (5375)
The Code Black Duck is marketed as a versatile choke tube designed to perform across a wide range of waterfowl and upland hunting situations. Its patented design and a stud ring help shorten the shot string, ensuring that the entire payload concentrates on target hits. This tube claims tighter patterns approaching full-choke outcomes when using 2 3/4″ to 3″ shells, making it suitable for action from timber blinds to open-water decoy setups. It is not intended for slug ammunition and is specific to certain gun models, with compatibility information provided in accompanying materials.
Patternmaster Code Black Duck for Benelli/Beretta Mobile (5374)
This Code Black Duck variant shares the same versatile core as its siblings, optimized to fit Benelli and Beretta Mobile platforms. The tube is designed to shorten the shot string and deliver dense patterns with 2 3/4″ to 3″ shells, aiding precision in diverse waterfowl environments. Like the other Code Black Duck models, it emphasizes broad pattern control without relying on slug ammunition, and users should confirm exact gun-fit alignment before purchase.
Patternmaster Code Black Duck for Remington (5378)
This Remington-compatible Code Black Duck tube emphasizes flexible performance across waterfowl scenarios while maintaining a compact shot string. The design mirrors Patternmaster’s flagship approach—achieving tighter, more uniform patterns with mid-range shells—without slug ammunition. Check gun compatibility graphics for precise fitment to Remington platforms in your collection.
Carlson’s 20 Gauge for Winchester/Browning/Moss 500 (0.610 Diameter)
Carlson’s 30+ years of patterning data inform this flush-mount 20 gauge choke tube, designed for Winchester, Browning, Inv, and Moss 500 platforms. The 0.610-inch diameter flush mount constriction sits between improved cylinder and full, depending on the shell and load used. The product emphasizes steel shot compatibility and a robust stainless construction, reflecting Carlson’s long-standing focus on reliability and repeatable patterns in field conditions.
Carlson’s Choke Tubes 20 Gauge (Winchester/Browning/Moss 500) Full (.590)
Note: This Carlson’s Full choke tube (0.590 diameter) is listed here for comparison, providing a closer-in, tighter pattern than improved cylinder options. It accepts Steel, Lead, and Hevi-Shot in certain configurations, but major cautions include restrictions on shot sizes and velocities with tighter constrictions. Users should verify ammunition compatibility with their specific shotgun and choke combination, especially when selecting a full choke for waterfowl use.
Patternmaster Anaconda Mid Range 20 Gauge (5588)
The Anaconda Mid Range choke tube introduces Patternmaster’s Coil Zone technology, which channels gases to create a constricted pattern without the typical over-constriction of some tight chokes. This mid-range option is designed to deliver an Improved Cylinder-like pattern, effectively shortening the shot string up to an approximate 50-yard range. It’s positioned for versatility across geese decoy setups, duck flights, and occasional longer-range shots, depending on load and technique.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Gun compatibility: Confirm the choke tube’s mating system (Beretta/Benelli, Winchester/Browning/Moss 500, Retay, etc.) with your specific shotgun model and barrel diameter.
- Load compatibility: Most of these chokes are designed for 2 3/4″ to 3″ shells and various shot sizes. Check the manufacturer’s notes for restrictions on slug or specific steel shot patterns.
- Pattern expectations: Waterfowl hunters often balance between mid-range patterns (for ducks) and tighter patterns (for geese). Anaconda-style chokes may offer a broad pattern while still tightening at range, whereas Full patterns deliver maximum density at closer ranges.
- Durability and material: 17-4 stainless steel and other corrosion-resistant alloys are common in waterfowl chokes. Ported or vented designs may reduce recoil but can affect pattern density slightly depending on load and wind.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and inspection of choke tubes prevent corrosion and ensure consistent patterns. Remove any debris after field use and inspect the threads and constriction for wear.
- Testing and patterning: For best results, pattern your gun with preferred loads at your typical hunting distances. Record patterns at 25 and 40 yards to compare effectiveness in real field conditions.
- Ethical considerations: Choose choke configurations that consistently deliver ethical, humane kills within your standard shooting distances and local regulations.
- Budget and availability: Replacements and variants vary in price. Consider stocking a few options to adapt to changing waterfowl scenarios and shells you plan to use.