Let’s Talk About Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl isn’t just another choke tube; it’s a testament to Kicks Industries‘ dedication to quality and performance. Designed specifically for Beretta Optima HP shotguns, this modified cylinder choke aims to deliver consistent patterns and improved downrange energy.
My pursuit of this choke tube stemmed from a frustrating season of missed shots on waterfowl. I needed a reliable, predictable pattern from my Beretta, and the promises of improved performance from the Kicks High Flyer were too enticing to ignore.
Upon unboxing, the choke’s robust construction was immediately apparent. The stainless steel felt solid and well-machined, inspiring confidence in its longevity. It was a significant upgrade visually and tactilely compared to the factory chokes that came with my shotgun.
Compared to other aftermarket chokes I considered, such as those from Carlson’s and Briley, the Kicks High Flyer stood out due to its advertised longer parallel section. This design, according to Kicks Industries, contributes to more consistent patterns, which was my primary goal. My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was eager to get it to the range and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl was a sporting clays range, followed by a dove hunt in South Texas. I wanted to gauge its performance across various target presentations and distances.
The choke performed admirably, producing noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns than my factory modified choke, particularly at distances of 30-40 yards. Even in the dusty conditions of the Texas dove fields, the High Flyer maintained its performance, showing no signs of malfunction or decreased effectiveness. Installation was simple, requiring no special tools, and the choke seated perfectly in my Beretta’s barrel.
There were no issues, but I was initially surprised by the slightly more pronounced report compared to my factory choke. This was a minor detail and easily overlooked given the improvement in pattern density.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple waterfowl hunts in varying weather conditions, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, despite exposure to rain, mud, and saltwater.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent is all it takes to remove any residue. Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the High Flyer has demonstrably improved my hit rate on longer shots, making it a valuable addition to my hunting setup. It has exceeded my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It’s designed for 12-gauge shotguns with a Beretta Optima HP choke tube system.
The choke is constructed from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. Being a modified cylinder choke, it provides a balance between tight patterns for longer shots and sufficient spread for closer engagements. It is finished in a non-reflective black coating.
The choke is specifically designed for Beretta shotguns. The longer parallel section aims to improve pattern consistency.
These specifications translate to a choke tube that is built to last and designed to deliver consistent, effective patterns in the field. The stainless steel construction ensures it can withstand harsh hunting conditions, while the modified cylinder constriction offers versatility for various shooting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl excels in its primary function: improving pattern density and consistency. At the range, I consistently observed tighter, more uniform patterns compared to my factory modified choke.
The choke’s ability to maintain pattern density at longer ranges is particularly impressive, allowing for more confident shots on distant targets. While the modified cylinder constriction may not be ideal for extremely close-range shots, it offers an excellent balance for most hunting situations. It delivers tighter patterns but not so tight as to cause the “donut effect” common in some full chokes.
There are no significant weaknesses. The choke is well-designed and performs as advertised, consistently delivering improved patterns.
Overall, the Kicks High Flyer meets and exceeds expectations. It noticeably enhances downrange performance and provides a significant advantage in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl features a simple, functional design. The stainless steel construction feels solid and well-made.
The choke installs easily using a standard choke wrench. It has a non-reflective black finish that reduces glare and blends seamlessly with the shotgun’s barrel. There is no learning curve associated with using this choke.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures that the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl is built to last. After months of use in various weather conditions, there are no signs of rust, corrosion, or wear.
Maintenance is simple; a quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use is all that’s required to keep the choke in optimal condition. The choke is designed for longevity and easy care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl does not come with any additional accessories beyond the choke tube itself. However, it is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Beretta Optima HP chokes.
While there are no specific customization options for this particular choke, the wide range of aftermarket chokes available for Beretta Optima HP shotguns allows for extensive customization of pattern density and range. The choke integrates seamlessly with the Beretta Optima HP system.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: Delivers noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns compared to factory chokes, increasing hit probability at longer ranges.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality stainless steel for exceptional resistance to rust, corrosion, and wear.
- Easy Installation: Installs quickly and easily with a standard choke wrench.
- Versatile Performance: Modified cylinder constriction offers a good balance for various hunting and shooting scenarios.
- Enhanced Downrange Energy: The tighter patterns translate to more energy on target at longer distances, improving terminal performance.
Cons
- Slightly Louder Report: The choke may produce a slightly louder report compared to factory chokes, which may be a concern for some shooters.
- Not Ideal for Very Close Range: The modified cylinder constriction may not be optimal for extremely close-range targets where a wider pattern is desired.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl?
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl is perfect for hunters who frequently take shots at medium to long ranges, such as waterfowl hunters, dove hunters, and upland bird hunters. It is also well-suited for sporting clays shooters looking to improve their scores on longer targets.
This choke is not ideal for shooters who primarily engage targets at very close range (inside of 20 yards), or those who prefer the widest possible pattern. A skeet or improved cylinder choke would be more appropriate for those scenarios. A choke wrench is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Mod Cyl is a worthwhile investment for any Beretta Optima HP shotgun owner seeking to improve their downrange performance. The enhanced pattern density and durable construction make it a reliable and effective tool for hunters and shooters alike.
At $71.99, the price is justified by the noticeable improvement in performance and the long-lasting build quality. The choke is an investment that pays off with increased confidence and success in the field.
I would highly recommend the Kicks High Flyer to anyone looking for a high-quality aftermarket choke that delivers on its promises. Upgrade your Beretta today and experience the difference for yourself!