Let’s Talk About Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full is designed to enhance the performance of your Browning shotgun when targeting waterfowl and upland game at longer ranges. This choke promises tighter, more consistent patterns, crucial for clean kills and ethical hunting. My journey to this choke began with a persistent problem: inconsistent patterns with my factory choke when hunting ducks over decoys.
I was experiencing too many wounded birds escaping, and a friend suggested upgrading my choke. After researching various options, the Kicks Industries High Flyer caught my eye due to its reputation for delivering dense, even patterns. The choke arrived in simple but effective packaging, showcasing the Kicks Industries logo. Picking it up, the stainless steel felt solid and well-machined, instilling confidence in its durability.
Compared to the factory Browning Invector Plus Full choke, the Kicks Industries High Flyer boasts a noticeably different porting design and a longer parallel section. I was also considering the Patternmaster Code Black Duck choke, known for its wad-stripping technology, and the Carlson’s Cremator Ported choke, lauded for its versatility. However, the Kicks Industries High Flyer’s specific design aimed at optimizing patterns without over-constricting the shot appealed to me. My initial reaction was excitement and a healthy dose of skepticism; I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full was a late-season duck hunt in the flooded timber of Arkansas. The weather was typical for that time of year: cold, damp, and foggy, making for challenging shooting conditions. I was using 3-inch steel shot, size BB, as that is my go-to load for waterfowl. The choke screwed in easily, and I immediately liked the feel of a solid connection between the choke and the barrel.
I noticed an immediate improvement in pattern density at around 40 yards. Birds that I would have previously winged now folded cleanly. I was particularly impressed by its performance in the less-than-ideal conditions. There were no issues with the choke loosening or causing any unusual recoil.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of rigorous use, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full has proven its worth. It shows no signs of wear, despite being subjected to mud, rain, and the occasional accidental bump against trees. Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition. This is much easier than some competitors I have used.
Compared to my previous factory choke, the Kicks Industries choke consistently delivers tighter and more uniform patterns. Before, I had doubts in my head about the shot pattern, which has now faded to complete confidence. It has noticeably improved my hit-to-kill ratio, resulting in more successful hunts and fewer crippled birds. The choke has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full is meticulously crafted to enhance your shotgun’s performance. It’s designed for 12-gauge shotguns with the Browning Invector Plus (+) choke system. The choke is constructed from durable stainless steel to withstand the rigors of frequent use in harsh conditions.
The choke type is designated as “Full,” meaning it provides a tighter constriction than improved cylinder or modified chokes, typically resulting in denser patterns at longer ranges. Kicks Industries specifically designs these chokes to optimize patterns without causing shot deformation. The choke is finished in black, offering a sleek, non-reflective appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full truly shines when it comes to pattern density and consistency. I’ve seen significant improvements in my shots at distances beyond 35 yards. Its performance translates to cleaner kills and less chance of wounding birds.
The porting is designed to reduce recoil, and I found it to be effective, although the difference is subtle. One potential weakness is that a “Full” choke can be too tight for very close-range shots (inside 25 yards), potentially resulting in excessively dense patterns and damaged birds. The product performs as intended.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full is expertly machined from high-quality stainless steel. The black finish not only looks good but also provides corrosion resistance. Installation is straightforward, requiring no special tools beyond a standard choke wrench.
The extended design facilitates easy removal and installation, even with gloved hands. The choke is well balanced and adds minimal weight to the end of the barrel, so there is no learning curve. It just works as intended.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full is built to last for many seasons. With proper care, it should withstand years of use without significant wear or degradation. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent buildup of residue and maintain optimal performance.
I recommend using a quality choke tube cleaner and a bore brush after each use. The stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, but proper maintenance will ensure longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full doesn’t come with any additional accessories in the package, as it is a standalone choke tube. However, you can customize your shotgun with other Kicks Industries chokes for different hunting scenarios. The choke is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Browning Invector Plus chokes.
Aftermarket choke cases are useful for storing and protecting your chokes when not in use. While there aren’t specific customization options for this particular choke, you can explore other Kicks Industries choke models for varying constriction levels.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full
Pros
- Consistently tight and even patterns at longer ranges, leading to cleaner kills and reduced wounding.
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion.
- Easy to install and remove with a standard choke wrench, even with gloved hands.
- Noticeable improvement in pattern density compared to factory chokes, especially with steel shot.
- Subtle reduction in recoil thanks to the ported design, enhancing shooting comfort.
Cons
- May be too tight for very close-range shots (under 25 yards), resulting in overly dense patterns.
- The “Full” choke designation limits its versatility for diverse hunting scenarios requiring wider patterns.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full?
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full is perfect for experienced waterfowl hunters who primarily target ducks and geese at longer distances. It’s also well-suited for upland game hunters who frequently encounter birds flushing at extended ranges. This choke is ideal for anyone seeking to improve their pattern density and achieve cleaner, more ethical kills.
This choke may not be the best choice for hunters who primarily shoot at close ranges or those who need a more versatile choke for mixed hunting scenarios. Those hunters may want to consider an improved cylinder or modified choke instead. A must-have accessory is a high-quality choke wrench for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full is a well-designed and durable choke that delivers on its promise of tighter, more consistent patterns at longer ranges. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity, while the easy installation and subtle recoil reduction make it a pleasure to use. The price of $71.49 is justified by the improved performance and increased success in the field.
I would highly recommend this choke to any serious waterfowl or upland game hunter looking to enhance their shotgun’s performance. If you are tired of crippling birds and want to improve your shot-to-kill ratio, invest in the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Browning Invector Plus Full and experience the difference for yourself. Upgrade your choke today!