Washington State Hunters Ed Practice Exam

What determines the maximum effective range of a shotgun?

1. Choke type

2. Gauge

3. Shot size

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The maximum effective range of a shotgun is influenced by several factors, making "all of the above" the correct choice. The choke type in a shotgun affects the spread of the shot as it exits the barrel. Different chokes can constrict the shot pattern, allowing for tighter groupings at longer distances, which can extend the effective range. For instance, a full choke will produce a narrower shot pattern compared to an open choke, thereby improving accuracy over longer distances. Gauge refers to the size of the shotgun's bore. A smaller gauge, like a 20-gauge, generally has a higher pellet count for the same amount of shot, while a larger gauge, like a 12-gauge, can push larger shot sizes further. The gauge impacts the power and overall ballistic performance, contributing to the maximum effective range. Shot size is another significant factor, as larger shot pellets (e.g., BB or larger) typically maintain energy better over distance compared to smaller shot sizes (e.g., #8). Heavier shot can travel further and hit harder, affecting how effectively you can take game at various ranges. Together, these elements—choke type, gauge, and shot size—work in tandem to determine how far away a hunter can effectively