Let’s Talk About Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570 is a specialized choke tube designed for turkey hunting, offering a tighter pattern for increased range and effectiveness. Manufactured by Kicks Industries, a respected name in choke tubes, this model is specifically engineered for 20-gauge Benelli shotguns utilizing the Crio Plus system. Its ported design and tight constriction aim to deliver devastatingly dense patterns, ensuring a successful hunt.
My journey to finding the Kicks Gobblin Thunder began with frustration. I needed a choke tube that would consistently deliver tight patterns at longer ranges, allowing me to ethically and effectively harvest turkeys in challenging terrain. I was looking for something more than just a factory choke, something that offered a tangible performance boost.
Upon receiving the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder, I immediately noticed its robust construction and matte finish. The stainless steel felt durable and the blackened finish added a non-reflective quality, important for avoiding spooking wary gobblers. The extended design and porting gave it an aggressive, purposeful look.
Compared to the factory Benelli choke and a Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder promised a tighter constriction and a different porting design, which I hoped would translate to better patterns. I specifically chose this over the others, intrigued by the claims of its exceptional pattern density and reputation among experienced turkey hunters. The factory choke was too open, and the Carlson’s, while good, didn’t consistently provide the extreme range I sometimes needed.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. I was eager to get to the range and see if the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570 lived up to the hype. Would it truly deliver the tight, consistent patterns I needed?
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local shooting range, specifically at the pattern board. I tested the Kicks Gobblin Thunder with a variety of 20-gauge turkey loads, ranging from standard lead to heavier-than-lead options like TSS (Tungsten Super Shot). Conditions were slightly breezy but otherwise ideal for patterning.
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder performed exceptionally well, consistently producing tight, dense patterns at 40 yards. Even with standard lead loads, the patterns were noticeably tighter than with the factory choke. The ported design seemed to effectively reduce recoil, making follow-up shots quicker and easier.
The choke required no adjustment period; it screwed in smoothly using the Benelli Crio Plus system. My only initial concern was cleaning the ports after each shooting session, as they tended to accumulate residue. Otherwise, the choke was straightforward to use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of testing and hunting, the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder has proven to be a reliable and effective choke tube. It has held up well against repeated use and exposure to the elements. I’ve used it during early-season hunts in warm, dry conditions and during late-season hunts in colder, wetter weather.
The stainless steel construction shows no signs of rust or corrosion, and the blackened finish remains intact. Cleaning the choke is relatively easy, although the ports do require a bit of extra attention to ensure thorough cleaning. I use a solvent and small brush to remove any powder residue.
Compared to my previous experiences with other choke tubes, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder consistently delivers superior pattern density and range. It has significantly improved my confidence in taking longer shots, and I’ve successfully harvested several turkeys at distances I would have hesitated to attempt before. It outperforms every other turkey choke I’ve used in my 20 gauge.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570
Specifications
- Gauge: 20 Gauge – This dictates the shotgun caliber the choke tube is compatible with.
- Choke Tube System: Benelli Crio Plus – This specifies the threading and fitment designed for Benelli shotguns with the Crio Plus choke system.
- Constriction: .570 – This is the internal diameter of the choke at its narrowest point, dictating the pattern tightness; a smaller number indicates a tighter pattern.
- Material: Stainless Steel – This offers excellent durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Ported: Yes – Porting helps reduce recoil and muzzle rise.
- Extended: Yes – The extended design facilitates easier choke changes and can offer improved pattern consistency.
- Finish: Blackened – This reduces glare and helps to conceal the muzzle.
- Length: 5.9 inches – This is the overall length of the choke tube.
- Gun Make: Benelli – This choke is specifically designed for Benelli shotguns.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the choke’s performance and suitability for turkey hunting. The tight .570 constriction and ported design are intended to maximize pattern density and reduce recoil, ultimately increasing the hunter’s chances of success. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity and reliability in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder excels in its primary function: delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges. Its accuracy is impressive, allowing for confident shots at distances of 40 yards and beyond, especially with premium turkey loads. The reduced recoil, thanks to the porting, is a significant advantage, especially when follow-up shots are needed.
Its main strength lies in its ability to consistently produce dense patterns, minimizing gaps and ensuring a higher probability of hitting the vital areas of a turkey’s head and neck. A minor weakness is the added cleaning required to keep the ports free of residue. The choke more than meets expectations, setting a new standard for performance in my turkey hunting experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Kicks Gobblin Thunder is excellent, with the stainless steel providing a solid and durable feel. The weight is negligible, adding virtually nothing to the overall weight of the shotgun. The blackened finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, reducing glare in the field.
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder is incredibly user-friendly, screwing in and out of the Benelli Crio Plus system with ease. No specialized tools are required for installation or removal, making it a hassle-free addition to your shotgun. There is no learning curve; its function is simple and effective.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures that the Kicks Gobblin Thunder is built to last, even with frequent use and exposure to harsh weather conditions. It shows no signs of wear or corrosion after months of testing and hunting. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain optimal performance, particularly the ports.
Maintaining this choke is straightforward: clean with a solvent and brush after each use, and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The choke’s robust construction and simple design minimize the need for repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder itself doesn’t require any additional accessories, as it’s a self-contained unit designed for a specific purpose. The primary customization aspect involves choosing the right turkey load to match the choke’s constriction for optimal pattern density. Experimentation with different loads is crucial to finding the best combination for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions.
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder is designed to work seamlessly with the Benelli Crio Plus choke system, meaning it’s directly compatible with any Benelli shotgun that uses this system. While it doesn’t directly interface with other brands’ accessories, its performance can be enhanced by pairing it with aftermarket sights or optics designed for turkey hunting. This compatibility makes it a versatile choice for Benelli owners.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570
Pros
- Extremely tight and consistent patterns: Delivers exceptional pattern density at extended ranges, increasing the chances of a successful harvest.
- Reduced recoil: The ported design effectively mitigates recoil, allowing for quicker and more accurate follow-up shots.
- Durable stainless steel construction: Ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion, even in harsh environments.
- Easy to install and use: Screws in and out effortlessly with the Benelli Crio Plus system, requiring no special tools.
- Blackened finish reduces glare: Helps to conceal the muzzle and avoid spooking wary turkeys.
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning of ports: The ports tend to accumulate residue and need to be cleaned after each use.
- May be too tight for very close shots: The tight constriction could result in patterns that are too dense at extremely close ranges (under 20 yards).
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570?
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570 is perfect for dedicated turkey hunters who demand maximum range and pattern density from their 20-gauge Benelli shotgun. Hunters who frequently encounter longer shots or hunt in areas with sparse cover will benefit most from this choke’s performance. It is also ideal for hunters using heavier-than-lead shot like TSS, as it helps to maximize the effectiveness of these premium loads.
This product might not be the best choice for hunters who primarily hunt in densely wooded areas where shots are typically very close (under 20 yards). The tight constriction could produce patterns that are too dense at these ranges, potentially resulting in missed shots. Also, hunters who are unwilling to clean the ports regularly might want to consider a non-ported choke.
A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench to ensure proper installation and removal. Experimenting with different turkey loads is highly recommended to find the optimal combination for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions. A red dot sight or scope can also further enhance accuracy at longer ranges.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570 is a top-tier choke tube that delivers exceptional performance for turkey hunting. Its ability to produce tight, dense patterns at extended ranges, combined with its durable construction and reduced recoil, makes it a valuable addition to any serious turkey hunter’s arsenal. While it requires regular cleaning and may not be ideal for extremely close shots, its overall performance and reliability are undeniable.
Considering its performance and build quality, the price of $73.99 is justified. It provides a tangible improvement over factory choke tubes and other aftermarket options, making it a worthwhile investment for hunters seeking to maximize their success in the field.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Benelli Crio Plus .570 to any turkey hunter looking to improve their range and pattern density. If you’re serious about turkey hunting and own a 20-gauge Benelli with the Crio Plus system, this choke tube is a game-changer. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference for yourself!