Can You Shoot Lead Through a Steel Choke? The Complex Answer
The short answer is: generally no, you shouldn't shoot lead shot through a steel choke. While it might not immediately damage the choke, doing so consistently will significantly reduce its lifespan and potentially compromise its performance. This is a crucial point for any responsible shotgunner.
Here's a deeper dive into why:
Understanding the Material Differences
Steel shot is harder and more abrasive than lead shot. Steel chokes are specifically designed to withstand the wear and tear of these harder pellets. Lead, while softer, can still cause abrasion over time. The key difference lies in the rate of wear. Steel on steel will wear at a significantly slower rate than lead on steel.
The Risks of Using Lead Shot with Steel Chokes
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Increased Choke Wear: The constant friction of lead shot against the steel choke's relatively hard surface will gradually erode the choke's internal structure. This erosion can lead to inconsistent patterns and a loss of accuracy over time. The choke might become damaged to the point of being unusable.
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Potential for Deformation: While less likely than with steel shot, the impact of lead shot could, theoretically, deform the choke's constrictions, again leading to inconsistent patterns.
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Voiding Warranties: Most manufacturers explicitly state in their warranties that using lead shot in steel chokes will void the warranty. This underscores the potential damage and risk involved.
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Lead Fouling: While less of a concern than with lead shot in a lead choke, lead residue can still build up inside the steel choke, potentially affecting performance. This requires more frequent and thorough cleaning.
When Might it Seem Okay?
Some might argue that occasional use of lead shot in a steel choke won't cause significant harm. This might be true for a few shots, but it's a risky gamble. The cumulative effect over time is the real concern. Even infrequent use increases the wear and tear.
The Bottom Line: Best Practices
To maintain your shotgun and ensure consistent performance and safety, always use lead shot in lead chokes and steel shot in steel chokes. Sticking to this simple rule will protect your investment and maximize your shooting experience. The small potential short-term convenience of using lead in a steel choke is far outweighed by the long-term risks of damage and reduced accuracy.
