Pheasant Hunting Shotgun: Optimal Shot Type, Weight & Choke Recommendations

Question
Hi,
I have a 12ga. bolt-action shotgun that doesn't have a choke. What shot type and weight would you recommend for pheasant hunting? What range should I limit myself to? If I were to have my a choke installed by a gun-smith what should I go with...modified choke??

Answer
Most (if not all) shotguns have a choke.  It might not be a separate part, but might be built into the barrel shape.  Look all along the barrel, and you might find that it has a modified, or other type choke.  For pheasant, the most popular shot size is #6, and some people use #4.  I would prefer #6 shot in lead or in any of the recent heavy non-steel shot.  If you use steel, then I'd use #4.

The modified choke is usually preferred for pheasant.  

I have a bolt-action Mossberg goose gun, but that has a full choke built into the barrel shape. I don't use that one for pheasants.

With a modified choke and #6 lead shot, you can go out to about 40 yards.  If you truly have an "open" choke (straight-walled barrel), you should limit it to about 25 to 30 yards because the pattern will be opening up by then.

Hope this helps!

Dave