The degree of constriction at the muzzle of a shotgun, influencing the spread of the shot, is a crucial factor in skeet shooting. This constriction affects the pattern density at various distances, impacting target breaks. For instance, a wider pattern, achieved through less constriction, can be advantageous at the close ranges typical in skeet.
Selecting the appropriate degree of constriction contributes significantly to a shooter’s success in skeet. It allows for greater margin of error, particularly on crossing targets. Historically, skeet shooters have experimented with different levels to optimize their performance on the skeet field, leading to standardized recommendations based on target distances and personal shooting style.