What is the term for the part of a shotgun at the muzzle that controls the spread of the shot and its pattern?

The term for the part of a shotgun at the muzzle that controls the spread of the shot and its pattern is called a choke. A choke is a constricted area at the end of the barrel that directs the shot as it exits, allowing for a tighter or wider spread based on the design of the choke. This is crucial for determining how the shot disperses over distance, which directly impacts accuracy and effectiveness when hunting or shooting targets.

Other parts of the shotgun mentioned, such as the barrel, refer to the main body that houses the projectile as it travels; the gauge refers to the bore size of the shotgun; and the stock is the part of the shotgun that provides a grip and stabilization for the shooter. Each of these components plays an important role in the functionality and handling of the shotgun, but it is the choke that specifically influences the shot pattern.