Nigel Teague is renowned for his chokes. But in the shooting world chokes can be a thorny problem. How much it too much? How much is too little? For a guide to shotgun choke we would recommend Mike Yardley’s authoritative guide to shotgun choke – everything you need to know. This useful guide will clear up misconceptions, advise on best practice and helpfully steer you through the choke-related minefields.

NIGEL TEAGUE: TOP 10 GUNSMITHS

Nigel Teague has sold his business to Westley Richards but remains a consultant for that firm while gunfitting and regulating from his old premises as well. Nigel Teague began with an engineering apprenticeship at Rolls-Royce in 1960. He went on to set-up the firm’s quality auditing system before going it alone at Ladyswood and launching Teague Precision Chokes to produce the exquisitely machined, thin-wall tube that made his reputation in the shooting world. Later, he introduced a range of after-market chokes for mass-produced guns. “Thin-wall chokes provide the opportunity to modify fixed-choke guns with no difference in barrel balance,” he says. He warns, though, “People can get too worried about chokes. I would say the first few thou makes the biggest difference and the good shot needs more than the average performer; I use 5⁄8 and 3⁄4 for most of my game-shooting. But don’t get distracted.” Tel 01454 260226; email.

Take Nigel Teague’s advice, and pair it with the editor’s shooting tips too. If you are after grouse this season read the Editor’s 12 Top Tips for grouse shooting. You will not be left looking like a novice on the moor. Or try 11 pheasant shooting tips from The Field to perk up your average and ensure some repeat invitations next year. The right choke can make a difference. But do make sure your sport doesn’t fall foul of the curse of the ever-changing choke. Pick your preferred arrangement and stick to it.