Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 promises tighter patterns and increased range for turkey hunters using Benelli Crio Plus shotguns. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this extended choke tube is designed to deliver consistent performance with lead turkey loads, making it a must-have for serious hunters looking to maximize their chances of success. Let’s explore whether this choke tube lives up to the hype.
My quest for the perfect turkey choke has been a long one. I’ve always been searching for that sweet spot between pattern density and effective range, a choke that could reliably put birds down at ethical distances.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the robust construction and sleek matte blue finish of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675. The extended design adds a bit of length to the barrel, but also provides a convenient gripping surface for easy installation and removal. It felt like a high-quality piece of equipment, and I was eager to put it to the test.
I’ve used other extended turkey chokes before, including a Primos Jelly Head and a Trulock Precision Hunter. While both performed adequately, I found the Primos pattern to be a bit too tight at close range, while the Trulock, though excellent, didn’t quite offer the extreme long-range performance I was hoping for. My initial impression was one of excitement; I was hoping this choke would fill the gap.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 at my local shooting range, patterning it with a variety of 12-gauge turkey loads. The range offered distances from 10 to 50 yards, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of pattern density and consistency. I was specifically looking for a tight, even pattern at 40 yards, the maximum distance I’d ethically consider taking a shot at a turkey.
The choke performed exceptionally well across different loads. Even in slightly windy conditions, the patterns remained consistent, with a noticeable increase in pellet density at longer ranges compared to my previous choke. Ease of use was also a plus; swapping out the factory choke for the Carlson’s was quick and straightforward, requiring no special tools beyond a standard choke wrench. My first experience was promising, delivering tighter, more consistent patterns than I anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season and multiple trips to the range, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 has proven its reliability. It continues to deliver consistent patterns, holding up well to repeated use and cleaning. I even put it through its paces during a spring gobbler hunt in light rain and high humidity.
The choke shows no signs of wear and tear, retaining its matte blue finish and tight fit within the barrel. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent removes any powder residue, keeping it in top condition. Compared to other chokes I’ve used, the Carlson’s choke tube has exceeded my expectations in both performance and durability. It provides confidence in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675
Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge. This choke is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns, the most common gauge for turkey hunting.
- Choke Tube System: Benelli Crio Plus. It is compatible with Benelli shotguns utilizing the Crio Plus choke system, ensuring a secure and accurate fit.
- Constriction: Turkey. Marked as a “Turkey” choke, this product is designed for tight patterns at extended ranges.
- Diameter: .675 inch. The .675″ diameter provides an extra-tight constriction, maximizing pellet density for increased range and lethality.
- Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel. Made from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, offering excellent durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Extension: Approximately 1″. The extended design simplifies installation and removal.
- Finish: Matte Blue. The matte blue finish reduces glare and provides a sleek, professional appearance.
- Additional Features: Non-Ported. The non-ported design eliminates potential complications related to cleaning and maintenance.
These specifications are critical for ensuring the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 delivers optimal performance in the field. The tight .675″ constriction and durable stainless-steel construction contribute to the choke’s ability to consistently produce dense, accurate patterns at extended ranges, giving hunters a significant advantage. A secure fit is also paramount for safety and accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 excels at producing extremely tight and consistent patterns at distances exceeding 40 yards. I was able to consistently put a high percentage of pellets within a 10-inch circle at that range, giving me the confidence to take ethical shots on gobblers. The choke’s ability to maintain pattern density at longer ranges is a significant strength.
One potential drawback is that the extremely tight pattern may be too constricted for very close-range shots (inside of 20 yards). However, for most turkey hunting scenarios, the benefits of its long-range performance outweigh this limitation. Overall, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 has far exceeded my initial expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 is well-built, with a solid feel and a durable matte blue finish. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable heft to the shotgun. The extended design makes it easy to grip and install, even with gloved hands.
There is no learning curve associated with using this choke. Simply screw it in using a choke wrench, and you’re ready to go. The ease of installation and removal is a welcome feature, particularly in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 is built to last. After months of use, it shows no signs of corrosion or wear. Proper care ensures long life.
Maintenance is simple. After each use, I remove the choke, clean it with a bore brush and solvent, and apply a light coat of oil. This process takes only a few minutes and helps maintain the choke’s performance and lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 does not come with any additional accessories beyond basic packaging. No customization options exist for the choke itself.
However, it is compatible with any Benelli Crio Plus shotgun and a variety of turkey loads. Experimenting with different load combinations is highly recommended to achieve optimal pattern density and performance with your specific firearm.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675
Pros
- Delivers extremely tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges. This allows ethical shots at greater distances.
- Made from durable 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting performance. This ensures reliability and longevity.
- Easy to install and remove, thanks to the extended design. This enhances convenience, even in the field.
- Compatible with Benelli Crio Plus shotguns, a widely used platform. This allows accessibility for a broad user base.
- Noticeably improves pattern density compared to factory chokes. Provides a measurable advantage in turkey hunting.
Cons
- The extremely tight pattern may be too constricted for very close-range shots. This could limit effectiveness in tight cover.
- Specifically designed for Benelli Crio Plus shotguns, limiting compatibility. This excludes users of other shotgun systems.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675?
This choke is perfect for serious turkey hunters who use Benelli Crio Plus shotguns and prioritize long-range performance. Hunters who frequently encounter wary gobblers that hang up at longer distances will especially benefit from the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675’s tight patterns and extended range. Experienced hunters who want to maximize their chances of success.
This product is not ideal for hunters who primarily hunt in dense cover where close-range shots are the norm. Those who use shotguns without the Benelli Crio Plus choke system will also need to look elsewhere. New hunters may also find this choke too specialized, as it demands careful load selection and patterning to avoid overly tight patterns at closer ranges.
A reliable choke wrench is a must-have accessory for installing and removing the choke. Experimenting with different turkey loads is also highly recommended to determine the optimal combination for your specific firearm and hunting conditions.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 is a high-quality, purpose-built choke tube that delivers exceptional performance for turkey hunters using Benelli Crio Plus shotguns. Its durable construction, easy installation, and extremely tight patterns make it a valuable addition to any serious hunter’s arsenal. The price of $58.49 is justified.
I would highly recommend this choke to any turkey hunter looking to extend their effective range and improve their chances of success in the field. If you’re serious about turkey hunting and own a compatible Benelli shotgun, this choke is a game-changer. Upgrade your shotgun and get ready to put more gobblers on the ground!