I think that it is nothing short of fantastic what is happening with chokes and shot.
It does take a balance to know what is best for your hunting situations.
Great point on the shot string, most bird hunters are very aware that shot strings can be very long.
When guys play with their shotguns, they are often shooting some kind of shot gun sports which makes them even a better shot with the super tight patterns.
I would love to see more guys rolling their own buckshot loads, it is very addictive.
On another note, I put a Burris speed beade on my 11/87, love it for shooting 5 Stand and Crows. The speed beade sure helps my eye pick up the target faster.