Browning 3" BPS/waterfowl loads/choke selection

[kmrcstintn]

here's the scenario: Browning 12 ga BPS w/ 3" chamber, 24" barrel, factory chokes (full, mod, imp cyl); various steel waterfowl loads to try:

Kent 3" #2 1 1/4 oz steel "all purpose" waterfowl load; 1300 fps
Kent 3" #BB 1 1/4 oz Fasteel waterfowl load; 1425 fps
Federal 3" #BB 1 1/4 oz UltraShok steel waterfowl load; 1450 fps
Federal 3" #BB 1 1/4 oz BlackCloud FS steel load; 1450 fps
Hevi Shot 3" #B 1 1/4oz "Environmetal" (?bismuth tin?) load; 1550 fps (recommended as a 'steel alternative' due to density of shot material)

when I tried the Kent #2 all purpose w/ Browning & modified choke for a possible turkey load, the pattern sucked...like no pattern just a wide splatter effect ; I have been given a bunch of different advice on this ...from buy a Kick's High Flyer choke in full constriction, use factory modified choke, use factory improved cylinder choke, get a ?light modified? choke, get a Browning Waterfowler choke...I am so confused!!!

I do not have the money to spend buying a ton of chokes & a ton of loads to test over & over...break this down for me simple & easy...what should I do first then what to try if the first thing doesn't give me proper results, etc, etc thanks

BTW: this is my 1st year trying waterfowling for combo of ducks & geese and I don't want to buy a dedicated 3 1/2" chambered gun until I am sure I want to continue hunting waterfowl next year

 

[chas08]

Welcome to the wonderful world of steel shot. Typically speaking, the larger shot tends to pattern better with a more open choke. I find this especially true when using BBB or T shot. Some chokes will pattern a certain size shot fairly well but a different size shot in the same size charge, lousy. I found a combination that works for me in a Briley light modified for over decoys and a Briley improved modified for pass shooting or when they are just more wary. Maybe its the longer forcing cone of the extended chokes that seems to help the pattern. I have NEVER found a steel load of any kind that would pattern as good as lead. I just settled for the most even distribution of shot inside a 30 inch circle at 35 yds for my"loose choke" and 45yds for my tight one. To expect "TurkeyTight" from a factory choke is too much. There's a lot of choices in chokes out there ranging in price from "Frugal to Extravagant" I think its more in the length and restriction than the price. Do stay with a quality ammunition, and as a matter of preferance, I prefer non-ported chokes. They are easier to clean and less noisey.