It’s not always easy to tell the difference between a Skeet choke and Improved Cylinder, but there are several key factors to consider when choosing between the two.
Skeet and Improved Cylinder chokes are two of the most popular choke sizes for sporting clays. Knowing when to use each choke size can mean the difference between a perfect score or just missing out in competitive shooting.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, selecting the right choke is the building block of good marksmanship. In this guide, we’ll discuss in detail the pros and cons of using these two choke sizes, so that you can make an informed decision that will help you achieve your goals and take your shooting skills to the next level.
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Skeet Choke – Short Range, Open Pattern, 15-25 Yards
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Improved Cylinder Choke – Short to Medium Range, 20-35 Yards
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Best Choke Overall – Carlson's Competition Choke Tube (See price)
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Budget Choke – Carlson's Stainless Sporting Clays Choke (See price)
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Key Takeaways
Skeet choke tube vs improved cylinder
Before giving our recommendation on which choke you should choose, first let’s define what each of these choke tubes are and what they were designed for to help better understand what benefits they offer, and where they fall short.
What is a skeet choke tube?
A skeet choke tube is a choke designed to spread shot pellets in a wide and even pattern, making it ideal for close-range shooting. A skeet choke is slightly tighter than cylinder and bore size, which allows the shot to spread quickly. Skeet chokes measure 0.719” in fixed 12-gauge shotguns. This is .003” less constrictive than the next tightest choke; improved cylinder. Skeet choke markings are often abbreviated as SK or SKT.
The skeet choke is ideal for shooting clay targets or skeet, commonly referred to as clay pigeon shooting or sporting clays, as well as for upland bird hunting, where targets are usually at a closer range and require light ammo equipped with small lead shot.
One of the main advantages of the skeet choke is its versatility. It can be used for a variety of shooting activities, from trap shooting to hunting, making it a popular choice among many upland game hunters that target pen raised birds that flush at close ranges. However, its wide shot pattern is not suitable for medium to long-range shooting.
What is an improved cylinder choke?
The improved cylinder choke is a choke designed to deliver a slightly tighter shot pattern than the skeet choke, making it suitable for shooting at targets at a medium range. The improved cylinder choke has a more gradual constriction than the skeet choke. Improved cylinder chokes measure 0.716” in fixed 12-gauge shotguns. This is .003” more constrictive than skeet. Improved cylinder choke markings are often abbreviated as IC.
One of the main advantages of the improved cylinder choke is its ability to deliver a slightly tighter shot pattern (compare to skeet) while maintaining a wider spread. This makes it ideal for shooting game birds and other small targets at both close and medium ranges.
When to use a skeet choke
The skeet choke is best used for shooting at targets at a closer range between 15 and 25 yards. It’s the perfect choke for most skeet shooting and upland bird hunting. The skeet choke is not recommended for long-range shooting.
When to use an improved cylinder choke
The improved cylinder choke is best used for shooting at targets at close to medium ranges between 20 and 35 yards. The improved cylinder choke is also not recommended for long-range shooting but can handle medium ranges that the skeet choke cannot.
Improved cylinder vs Skeet for trap shooting
While the skeet choke is largely restricted for sporting clay shoots, the improved cylinder choke is more versatile for both close and medium range shots for both skeet and upland game birds. The rule of thumb for these two chokes is to choose the skeet choke if the majority of your shots are inside 20 yards, and switch to the tighter improved cylinder if ranges will push 30 yards.
For variable ranges while hunting, stick to the improved cylinder choke due to its versatility. If you hunt pen raised upland game birds that tend to flush extremely close, then the skeet choke is the better choice. Whichever choke size you do end up choosing, the notable effects will be small since the diameter of difference is only a few thousandths of an inch.
Ultimately, both the skeet choke and improved cylinder choke have their pros and cons, and the choice between them depends on the shooting activity, the distance of the target, and personal preference. One compromising method for over and under shooters it to have different diameter chokes in each barrel to handle both close and medium range shots.
Bottom Line: Choose a Skeet Choke for Sporting Clays
Choosing the right choke for your shotgun is a critical decision that can have a significant impact on your shooting success. While skeet choke tubes and improved cylinder chokes both have their advantages and disadvantages, the best choice for you depends on your shooting style, preferences, and goals.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, it’s essential to take the time to experiment with different chokes and determine what works best for you. Remember, the more you practice with different chokes, the better you’ll become at recognizing their strengths and limitations. The general rule of thumb is to choose the skeet choke for shots within 20 yards. If shots exceed 20 yards, then switch to an improved cylinder choke which can be effective out to 30 yards.
So, next time you’re at the range or in the field, take the time to experiment with your choke selection and try out different loads to see what works best for you. By doing so, you’ll not only improve your accuracy and performance, but you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of the science of shotgunning.
Remember, sporting clays is about having fun, challenging yourself, and improving your skills. With the right attitude, persistence, and the right choke, you can achieve all three and become a more successful shooter.
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