dove choke

[Kirkwt]

I bought a Winchester 37a off of my brother in law for 25 bucks. I am planning on letting my son use it for dove hunting. The only problem is that is choked for full. Should I take it to the gunsmith and have it rechoked for modified or improved or just saw off the choke and have an open cylinder bore?

[Clemson]

You did not mention what gauge the gun is in, but regardless you got a good deal! The Winchester model 37's are desirable as a quality single shot from a reputable manufacturer. Don't cut the barrel. If you feel the need to open the choke up, have a gunsmith ream it. As a possible alternate, you can buy "spreader" loads in 12 gauge that will open the pattern up.

[labgrade]

Ditto a "sreader load," but don't buy the expensive types sold as such.

Grab a box or so of a couple brands of the #7-1/2 promotional loadings. Their shots usually not as hard as, say AA & will probablly not pattern as well - just what you're looking for, no?

[Mike Irwin]

Have a gunsmith open it up to Improved Cylinder. I've found IC to be a good "compromise" choking for most general shooting.

[Kirkwt]

I was leaning towards having it bored out. It's a 20 gauge. thanks again.

[Dave McC]

Like I said on the Hunt BB, shoot it before altering it. Hindsight's 20-20....