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Choke (Shotgun)

Definition

Constriction at the muzzle of a shotgun barrel that controls pellet spread. From most-open to most-tight: cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, full choke.

Related terms

Accidental Discharge
Unintended firing of a weapon without a deliberate trigger pull, usually caused by mechanical defect, sear wear, drop impact or unsafe handling.
Kinetic Energy
KE = (1/2) m v squared, where m is projectile mass and v is velocity. Doubling velocity quadruples the kinetic energy delivered...
MOA (Minute of Angle)
1/60 of a degree of arc. Equal to approximately 2.908 cm (1.047 inches) at 100 m. Used in civilian and some law...
Muzzle Velocity
Speed of the projectile at the instant it leaves the barrel, expressed in metres per second (m/s) or feet per second (fps)....
Ordnance Gelatin
Calibrated tissue simulant. 10 per cent gelatin at 4 degrees C is the NATO and FBI standard; 20 per cent gelatin is...
Permanent Cavity
The lasting wound channel produced by the bullet's direct crushing and laceration of tissue. Diameter approximates expanded projectile diameter. At handgun velocities,...
Ricochet
The deflection of a bullet off a surface at a low angle of incidence, producing a new trajectory that diverges from the...
Temporary Cavity
The transient radial tissue displacement produced by a bullet's passing. Caused by the transfer of kinetic energy to surrounding tissue via compression...

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