Choke tube markings are a series of lines, notches, letters, or numbers that help identify the size of a choke tube. The letters BSC are usually written on the outside walls of the choke tube, and it can be confusing if you haven’t seen it before.
BSC stands for BUCKSHOT CHOKE. It designates the choke tube constriction size and in this case BSC is between Modified and Light Full with regards to tightness. It measures 0.695” in diameter on fixed 12 gauges.
Buckshot chokes are used for deer, predator, and hog hunting. They help provide tight patterns at medium to long ranges between 30 and 50 yards. If you see “BSC” or “Buckshot” written on a choke tube, you can be sure it’s an Improved Modified choke.
What does BSC mean on a choke tube?
Choke tube letters designate the diameter of a choke tube and BSC is included in these designations. BSC stands for buckshot choke. It’s an Improved Modified Choke and is near the middle ground of all choke diameters.
Some chokes can be labeled as “Buck” and this means Improved Modified as well. This designation is brand specific and isn’t related to the standard naming scheme. Buckshot chokes will be listed as BSC, IMP MOD, or Improved Modified. BSC chokes should not be confused with Light Modified or Modified choke tubes.
What is the diameter of BSC chokes?
Buckshot choke diameters differ based on shotgun brand and choke system. Below is a chart showing the diameter of BSC chokes by brand.
| Type | BSC Diameter (inch) |
| Beretta/Benelli Mobil | 0.696 |
| Benelli Crio | 0.697 |
| Beretta Optima Plus | 0.702 |
| Benelli Super Sport | 0.697 |
| Beretta Optima | 0.702 |
| Browning Invector | 0.697 |
| Invector Plus | 0.710 |
| Remington | 0.697 |
More Choke Tube Markings
There are over 30 different choke tube markings used for choke identification. Below are the most common markings. Please click the links below to see what each choke tube marking means.
What are BSC choke tubes used for?
BSC choke tubes pattern tighter at medium to long ranges. They are ideal for shots on deer, predators, and hogs out to 50 yards. They work best with medium size lead buckshot on larger game that need more penetration. They can also be used safely with most turkey loads.
Improved Modified and BSC chokes are one of the most popular choke sizes for hunting, and are usually included when you purchase a new shotgun. The all-around performance of Improved Modified chokes between 30 and 50 yards is worth the investment.
Are BSC choke tubes open chokes?
Buckshot choke tubes are not open chokes and are the middle ground of all choke sizes available. BSC chokes are tighter than Modified, but more open than Light Full. They are considered a medium to long range choke tube and they are designed for hunting deer, hogs, and coyotes. 50 yards is usually the max distance with lead shot with these chokes.
Improved Modified chokes excel with most ammo and shot types due to its forgiving diameter that doesn’t constrict the shot column too much, which can result in blown out patterns. It can also be used with TSS shot which delivers devastating downrange patterns for deer and hogs.
Bottom Line: BSC Means Buckshot Choke
BSC stands for Buckshot Choke and has the diameter of an Improved Modified Choke. The letters BSC will be written on the side of the choke tube. Improved Modified chokes perform in between that of Modified and Light Full chokes.
Buckshot chokes are great for deer, hogs, predators, and other large game as the tight pattern and large pellets offer greater penetration at long ranges. It’s also one of the preferred chokes for tactical and self defense.
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Related
- Complete Guide to Identifying Choke Tube Sizes
- Choke Tube Diameter and Constriction Table
- What do the numbers mean on a choke tube?
- Ultimate Guide to Shotgun Pellet Sizes
- What does 3 lines on a choke tube mean?
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