Well my attempt to bring in real data on choke also supports the inside of 50 yard attempt. If a rooster flushes at 50 yards going way, the fundament/raking shot is one of the worst shots one can take. At best, knowing pattern & feather draw on specific shot, he may fly 300 - 400 yards before falling dead out of the sky or he becomes a runner. And it is difficult to close on a downed bird at a 100 yards much less in excess of 100 yards. On our hunts, spotters are most important as if you have 3 spotters, you will find where the bird set down.

Now if the bird is coming down the line parallel(I've seen a few but it is most uncommon) at 50 yards and has been hit a time or two, that's a totally different situation. Gun dogs and good patterns are the key.

Kind Regards,

Raimey
rse