Choke tube markings are a series of lines, notches, letters, or numbers that help identify the size of a choke tube. The letters LR are usually written on the outside walls of the choke tube, and it can be confusing if you haven’t seen it before.
LR stands for LONG RANGE. It designates the choke tube constriction size and in this case LR is close to a Modified choke with regards to tightness. It measures 0.705” in diameter on fixed choke 12 gauges.
Long range chokes are used for waterfowl hunting and upland game. They help provide tight patterns between 30 and 40 yards. If you see “LR” or “MOD” written on a choke tube, you can be sure it’s a Modified choke. One of the most popular chokes with the long range markings is Carlson’s Cremator.
What does LR mean on a choke tube?
Choke tube letters designate the diameter of a choke tube and LR is included in these designations. LR stands for Long Range and has a diameter close to a Modified Choke. This is the middle ground of all choke diameters. Carlson’s Cremator series uses the LR designation.
Some chokes can be labeled as “L. Range” and this means it’s a Modified as well. This designation is brand specific and isn’t related to the standard naming scheme. Long Range will be listed as LR, L. Range, or Long Range. LR chokes should not be confused with Light Modified or Improved Modified choke tubes.
What is the diameter of Long Range chokes?
Long Range choke diameters differ based on shotgun brand and choke system. Below is a chart showing the diameter of LR chokes by brand. Carlson’s LR choke tubes are sized close to modified constriction.
| Type | LR Diameter (inch) |
| Beretta/Benelli Mobil | 0.701 |
| Benelli Crio | 0.702 |
| Beretta Optima Plus | 0.707 |
| Benelli Super Sport | 0.702 |
| Beretta Optima | 0.707 |
| Browning Invector | 0.702 |
| Invector Plus | 0.715 |
| Remington | 0.702 |
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 LR choke tubes used for?
LR choke tubes pattern tighter at medium and long ranges. They are ideal for shots on waterfowl, dove, and upland game out to 40 yards. They work best with medium size steel and lead shot on fast flying birds that are hard to hit. They can also be used safely with most turkey loads.
Long Range chokes are one of the most popular choke sizes for hunting and are usually included in choke sets when you purchase a new shotgun. The all-around performance of Modified chokes between 30 and 40 yards is worth the investment.
Are LR choke tubes open chokes?
Long Range choke tubes are not open chokes and are the middle ground of all choke sizes available. LR chokes are tighter than Light Modified, but more open than Improved Modified. They are considered a medium range choke tube and they are designed for hunting ducks over decoys. 40 yards is usually the max distance with steel shot with these chokes.
Long Range chokes excel with most ammo and shot types due to its forgiving diameter that doesn’t constrict the shot column too much, resulting in blown out patterns. It can also be used with TSS shot which delivers devastating downrange patterns for waterfowl and turkeys.
Bottom Line: LR Means Long Range
LR stands for Long Range Choke. The letters LR will be written on the side of the choke tube. LR chokes are Modified chokes and perform in between that of Light Modified and Improved Modified.
Modified chokes are great for waterfowl, dove, quail, and other upland game as the pattern is more forgiving for fast moving birds at medium ranges. It’s one of the preferred chokes for turkey hunting as well. One of the most popular chokes with the long range marking is the Carlson’s Cremator.
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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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