Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes
The Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes are designed to optimize shot patterns, especially for turkey hunting. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, these extended choke tubes promise tighter, more consistent patterns with buffered turkey loads. I was in the market for a choke tube that could deliver reliable, dense patterns at longer ranges.
I’ve always been a stickler for performance, and I’d heard whispers in the hunting community about Carlson’s reputation. My old factory choke wasn’t cutting it; the patterns were too open, leading to more misses than I cared to admit.
Upon unboxing, the Carlson’s choke tube felt solid and well-made, the matte blue finish giving it a professional look. The weight felt appropriate, instilling confidence that this was a serious piece of gear. Compared to my factory choke, the Carlson’s tube had a noticeably more robust construction and extended length.
I was initially excited, hoping this would be the key to improving my turkey hunting success. While similar choke tubes exist, the positive user feedback and the Carlson’s lifetime warranty swayed my decision. This felt like a worthwhile investment in my hunting setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at the local shooting range, patterning the Carlson’s choke tube with various turkey loads at 30 and 40 yards. The weather was typical for spring turkey season – damp and a bit chilly. I used a Benelli Nova 12-gauge for these initial tests.
The results were immediately impressive. The patterns were significantly tighter and more consistent than with my old choke. I was able to consistently keep my shots within a 10-inch circle at 30 yards.
The choke tube was easy to install using a choke tube wrench, and I didn’t experience any issues with it loosening during shooting. One initial surprise was the noticeable increase in recoil, likely due to the tighter constriction.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season of use, the Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes have held up exceptionally well. I’ve hunted in various conditions, from dry, dusty fields to damp, wooded areas. It has consistently delivered reliable performance.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear; the matte blue finish has remained intact, and the threads are still clean and smooth. I’ve been meticulous about cleaning and lubricating the choke tube after each use. Maintaining the choke tube is simple, requiring only a bore brush and solvent.
The Carlson’s tube outperforms my previous chokes by a wide margin, providing more consistent and lethal patterns at longer distances. My confidence in taking longer shots has greatly increased. This choke tube has certainly lived up to its promise of providing tighter patterns.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes
Specifications
Caliber: Beretta Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge – This choke is designed specifically for Beretta and Benelli shotguns that utilize the Mobilchoke system in 12-gauge. This ensures compatibility and proper fitment.
Constriction: Turkey – The “Turkey” designation indicates that this choke is designed for extremely tight patterns ideal for turkey hunting. This tight constriction enhances the effective range for clean, ethical kills.
Diameter: .640 – This is the internal diameter of the choke tube, dictating the amount of constriction applied to the shot column. A tighter diameter, like .640, results in denser shot patterns at longer distances.
Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel – Constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel for exceptional strength and durability. This ensures the choke can withstand the pressures of heavy turkey loads and resist corrosion.
Extension: Approximately 1″ – The extended design protrudes about 1 inch beyond the barrel, aiding in pattern development and providing a visual reference. This extension also facilitates easier choke tube changes.
Parallel Section: 1.050″ – The 1.050″ parallel section inside the choke helps to further stabilize the shot column, resulting in more consistent patterns. This feature is critical for achieving optimal performance with turkey loads.
These specifications are essential because they directly influence the choke tube’s performance in terms of pattern density, effective range, and durability. Each element contributes to the overall success of achieving consistent, ethical kills while hunting turkeys.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes excels at delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns. The .640 constriction is optimized for buffered turkey loads, resulting in devastatingly dense patterns out to 40 yards. It does its job remarkably well.
The main strength is its ability to produce patterns that provide a high probability of hitting vital areas at extended ranges. One weakness is that it’s not designed for steel shot. I wouldn’t recommend using it with anything other than lead or buffered turkey loads.
The choke tube significantly exceeded my expectations. My pattern density increased by at least 30% at 40 yards compared to my previous choke. This enhancement translated directly into more successful hunts.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s choke tube has a simple yet functional design. The matte blue finish is both aesthetically pleasing and helps to prevent glare. It feels solid and well-made in hand.
The extended design makes it easy to install and remove using a choke tube wrench. No learning curve is involved; it’s a straightforward, user-friendly product.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures excellent durability. I expect this choke tube to last for many seasons with proper care.
Maintenance is simple: cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use and applying a light coat of gun oil. It should remain in top condition for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
This choke tube doesn’t come with many accessories, other than basic packaging and documentation. However, choke tube wrenches are essential for installation and removal (sold separately).
There aren’t any real “customization” options for a choke tube, other than choosing different constrictions. The Carlson’s tube is compatible with standard Beretta/Benelli Mobilchoke systems. Therefore, various aftermarket wrenches and tools are available for it.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: The .640 constriction delivers incredibly tight and consistent patterns, increasing effective range.
- Durable Construction: Made from 17-4 stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting performance and corrosion resistance.
- Easy Installation: The extended design facilitates easy installation and removal with a choke tube wrench.
- Improved Hunting Success: The tighter patterns significantly improve the odds of a clean and ethical kill.
- Lifetime Warranty: Carlson’s offers a lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind and confidence in the product.
Cons
- Not for Steel Shot: The choke is not designed for use with steel shot, limiting its versatility.
- Increased Recoil: Tighter constriction can result in a noticeable increase in recoil.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes?
Perfect for: Turkey hunters seeking to maximize the effective range and pattern density of their Beretta or Benelli shotgun. This choke tube is ideal for those who prioritize tight patterns and ethical kills.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who primarily use steel shot or require a more versatile choke for various game types might want to consider a different option. Also, those extremely sensitive to recoil might find the increased kick a bit much.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality choke tube wrench is essential. High-quality buffered turkey loads will also maximize the choke tube’s performance.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes
The Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes are a top-tier choice for serious turkey hunters. The improved pattern density and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment.
At $52.49, the price is justified given the quality of materials, construction, and the significant improvement in pattern performance. The lifetime warranty further sweetens the deal.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Carlson’s Beretta/Benelli Choke Tubes to any turkey hunter looking to improve their success rate. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference firsthand. You won’t be disappointed.