The Mossberg 5500 is one of the most trusted and dependable shotguns used for waterfowl hunting. It comes in a variety of models and can be used with many different types of choke tubes and ammunition. But for the 5500 to function at its best, it needs the right choke tube.
In this guide, we’ll examine three chokes that work well with the Mossberg 5500 by delivering more consistent and dense patterns. It’s always best to pattern your shotgun before heading into the field to determine which choke and ammo combinations work best at the ranges you will be hunting.

Best Chokes for the Mossberg 5500
These are the three choke tubes you should consider for the Mossberg 5500 that can produce more consistent patterns downrange. The Mossberg 5500 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 Mossberg 5500 works especially well with the Carlson’s Cremator. This medium range choke performs best with steel shot on ducks between 30 and 40 yards while hunting over decoys. The Cremator is capable of putting over 80% of pellets inside a 30-inch circle at 40 yards with the right ammo. The non-ported design is compatible with most pellet sizes, shot types, and wads designs. 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. Expect it to perform closer to a full choke.
The Patternmaster Code Black choke tube fits the Mossberg 5500 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 Code Black has internal rings that stop the wad for a millisecond to aid in wad separation resulting in more even patterns downrange. Expect this choke to pattern closer to a full choke. This is the pick for 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 5500 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 Mossberg 5500
- 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 Mossberg 5500 choke for steel shot?
The Mossberg 5500 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 5500 which it is specifically designed for.
The best Mossberg 5500 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 5500 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 Mossberg factory chokes good enough?
Often overlooked are the factory choke tubes that are included with the Mossberg 5500 when bought new. The choke system is installed on most 5500 shotguns and can be customized with interchangeable choke tubes built for it.
Factory Mossberg 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 5500 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 Mossberg 5500 modified choke the most versatile choke size?
Yes, the modified choke tube is the most versatile choke tube for the Mossberg 5500 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.
How It Compares
When it comes to choosing the right choke tube for the Mossberg 5500 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 most of 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
The best choke tubes for the Mossberg 5500 are the Carlson’s Cremator and Patternmaster Code Black. These two choke tubes can provide more consistent and dense patterns at long ranges for both ducks and geese compared to factory choke tubes.
As always, patterning should be completed with the choke tubes and ammo you plan to use to really see what works best. Ammo can be finicky out of some choke tubes, so patterning with as many combinations as you can is always the best option.
Related
- Mossberg Choke Tube Guide
- Best Chokes for the Mossberg 500 Shotgun
- What is a Mossberg Accu-choke?
- Mossberg Choke Tube Chart – Choke Sizes
- Mossberg Invector vs 835/935 Chokes
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Last update on 2025-09-07 / Affiliate links / Product Images from Amazon Product Advertising API