↬ The Winchester 1300 is a popular shotgun for hunting both ducks and geese, and with the right choke tube, it can deliver consistent patterns with non-toxic shot. The 1300’s versatility allows it to function in even the most challenging environments, but it needs the right choke tube to function effectively.
The Patternmaster Code Black and Carlson’s Cremator are two of the best choke tubes for the Winchester 1300. They can deliver results of over 80% pellets inside a 30-inch circle at over 40 yards with the right ammo. Their ported design helps reduce recoil and muzzle jump, making follow up shots quicker and more accurate.
In this guide, we’ll discuss in more detail why you should consider these chokes, the features behind them, and what to expect at certain hunting distances. And remember, always pattern your shotgun to see how it performs with the ammo you plan on hunting with so adjustments can be made prior to using it in the field.

Best Chokes for the Winchester 1300
These are the three chokes you should consider for the Winchester 1300 that can produce more consistent and dense patterns downrange. The Winchester 1300 is compatible with the Standard Invector choke system.
1) Carlson’s Cremator Non-Ported Choke
The Carlson’s Cremator choke tube is an excellent choice for hunters who need a versatile choke that can perform well with a variety of shotshell loads. This choke tube uses a unique design that consists of multiple tapers, which work together to provide a consistent shot pattern. This makes the Cremator ideal for hunting situations where you need to be able to adjust your shooting style quickly and accurately.
The Winchester 1300 works especially well with the Carlson’s Cremator. This mid range choke gives dense patterns at ranges of up to 40 yards. This is the perfect choke for open water situations or ducks over decoys. This mid-range choke has a diameter of 0.715″ which is close to improved cylinder. The non-ported design means it works well with all wad types. This is the TOP pick.
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2) Patternmaster Code Black Choke
The Patternmaster Code Black is a top-of-the-line choke tube that provides unmatched performance in long-range hunting situations. This choke tube uses a specialized constriction design that helps to control the spread of shot at longer distances. This makes it an ideal choice for waterfowl hunters who need to take shots at moving targets from a distance.
The Patternmaster code black choke tube fits the Winchester 1300 perfectly. This all-around choke is great for field hunts, ponds, lakes, and rivers where the range of shots varies, and you’ll be able to handle it all without having to change chokes mid hunt. The Patternmaster helps halt the wad from the shot column for a more controlled separation which reduces pellet deformation and improves patterns downrange. Expect it to pattern closer to a full a choke. This is the pick if you need MAX range.
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3) Carlson’s Cremator Ported Mid Range
Carlson’s ported version of the cremator choke series is another good option for the 1300 in that it can help reduce recoil and muzzle jump, while the internal stud design works to reduce pellet deformation. This mid range choke tube is perfect for decoying birds in tight or for quick passing shots at medium range.
Consider the ported Cremator choke if you want a slight reduction in muzzle jump and getting on targets faster for follow up shots due to directing some of the gases and pressure outwards. However, ported chokes can be louder and may throw more gun powder residue outwards, so keep that in mind.
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Why you should choose the Cremator for the Winchester 1300
- Made from high-quality stainless steel
- Specifically designed to provide superior performance
- Features a unique design that allows for tighter shot patterns and improved accuracy
- Unique wad tapering system as the shot exits the barrel
- Less fouling and improved consistency
- Black oxide finish that provides superior durability and corrosion resistance
- Improved accuracy and performance
What is the best Winchester 1300 choke for steel shot?
The Winchester 1300 shotgun works well with a wide variety of choke tubes and shot types. This is true with steel shot used mostly for waterfowl. Steel shot loads can all be fired through certain models of the 1300 which it is specifically designed for.
The best Winchester 1300 choke tube for steel shot is the Patternmaster Code Black. It provides dense patterns with short shot strings that are capable of hitting fast moving birds. It works especially well over decoys out to ranges of 50 yards.
Other great options for choke tubes that work well for the 1300 are the Carlson’s Cremator series of chokes. These choke tubes are highly customizable as they are available in long range and mid-range options depending on the hunting situation.
Are Winchester factory chokes good enough?
Often overlooked are the factory choke tubes that are included with the Winchester 1300 when bought new. The choke system is installed on most 1300 shotguns and can be customized with interchangeable choke tubes built for it.
Factory Winchester chokes tubes can be good enough, but it depends on the application it’s being used for (e.g. timber hunting vs pass shooting) and the shotshell loads. These factors will determine if the factory choke you have is capable of performing for any given hunting situation.
Once you’ve determined that the factory choke size and constriction is right, then patterning the 1300 with the loads you intend to hunt with will let you know if it’s good enough to use in the field. If patterning can’t be done, then an aftermarket choke tube like the Patternmaster will most likely perform better right out of the box.
Is the Winchester 1300 modified choke the most versatile choke size?
Yes, the modified choke tube is the most versatile choke tube for the Winchester 1300 and its choke system. It may not be the best performer at all ranges, but over a wide range it can’t be beat.
This includes close decoy shooting, birds skirting the edges of the decoys, and that occasional long pass shot. A modified may be too tight of a choke for timber hunting since shots are under 30 yards. A light modified, improved cylinder, or skeet choke may be a better option.
Regardless, if you’re in a field hunting situation where the shots on birds will be at varying ranges from 20 yards to 50 yards, the modified is a good choice for versatility.

About the Winchester 1300 Shotgun
The Winchester 1300 pump shotgun has been around for years and has gained a large following due to its ruggedness in the field and its affordability as a dependable shotgun. 1300 shotguns can be found at affordable prices which makes it widely available to most new hunters dipping their toes in the waterfowling world.
The simplicity of the design of the 1300 shotgun leaves little to go wrong in the muddy waterfowl fields or ponds. It won’t freeze up in the winter and it’s easy to disassemble in the blind should the need arise. The 1300 is available in many different models and ranges of shotshell types.
Barrel length also comes in a wide range for many different applications. Several different finishes and camo options give the gun more modern touch and can be tailored for the hunting situation. The choke system allows for interchangeable and aftermarket choke tubes to be installed with ease.
The Winchester 1300 is a do-it-all shotgun that has stood the test of time. It’s the perfect mix of affordability and dependability that combined with a good choke and shotshell, will continue to harvest waterfowl for years to come.
How It Compares
When it comes to choosing the right choke tube for the Winchester 1300 shotgun, Carlson’s Cremator stands out from its competitors. The Carlson’s Cremator is engineered with a unique design that provides consistent and even shot patterns, resulting in better accuracy and a higher precision. Unlike its competitors, the Cremator is built with Triple Shot Technology, which ensures that the shot is evenly distributed, reducing the chances of having holes or gaps in your pattern. Additionally, the Cremator’s longer parallel section helps to reduce recoil, which in turn leads to more controlled shots and better follow ups. Overall, the Carlson’s Cremator is a top performer, delivering outstanding results that set it apart from the competition.
Bottom Line
Several factory choke tubes come with the Winchester 1300, but they aren’t always the best. After market premium choke tubes are available to provide enhanced features and better patterning results that translate to better success in the field.
The best choke tubes for the Winchester 1300 are the Carlson’s Cremator and Patternmaster Code Black. These two choke tubes can provide consistent and dense patterns at long ranges for both ducks and geese compared to factory choke tubes.
As always, you should pattern your shotgun to see what ammo and choke combinations work the best out of it. One shotgun may not perform like another. Test it out and develop a system that will work well throughout the hunting season and give you the best chance of success when birds are hovering over your decoys.
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Last update on 2025-09-10 / Affiliate links / Product Images from Amazon Product Advertising API