Which choke is ideal for duck hunting in flooded timber at close range?

In duck hunting situations, particularly in flooded timber scenarios where shots are taken at close range, a cylinder choke is ideal. The cylinder choke has no constriction, allowing for a wide spread of shot, which increases the likelihood of hitting a bird that is relatively close. When waterfowl are flying low and close to the hunter, a broader shot pattern is advantageous, as it compensates for any subtle aiming errors and ensures that multiple pellets can reach the target effectively.

Using a choke that constricts the shot (like full or extra full chokes) would be less effective in this context, as they are designed for long-range shooting and will produce a tighter pattern that is better suited for targets at greater distances. In flooded timber, where movement can be restricted and birds are more likely to be encountered within a short distance, the wider spread provided by the cylinder choke maximizes the chances of a successful shot.