Let’s Talk About Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675 is a specialized choke tube designed for turkey hunting, promising tighter patterns and longer ranges with your 12-gauge shotgun. Made by Kicks Industries, it features a ported design and extended knurl for superior shot control and ease of use. This choke aims to maximize the effectiveness of your shotshells, giving you an edge when that big tom steps into view.
My quest for the ultimate turkey choke started years ago, driven by too many close calls and missed opportunities. I needed a choke that could consistently deliver tight, dense patterns at extended ranges, allowing me to confidently take ethically responsible shots. I wanted something that would turn my trusty Browning into a true gobbler-getter.
Upon receiving the Kicks Gobblin Thunder, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and aggressive porting. The stainless steel felt solid and durable, and the extended knurl offered a secure grip for easy installation and removal. Its blackened finish gave it a tactical, no-nonsense appearance that matched my hunting style.
Compared to my previous choke, a standard full choke, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder felt like a serious upgrade. I had also considered a competitor’s extended choke with similar advertised constriction, but the Kicks Industries reputation for quality and consistent patterns swayed me. The price point, while not the cheapest, seemed justified given the potential performance boost.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this choke truly live up to the hype and transform my shotgun into a turkey hunting machine? Only time, and a few spring seasons, would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kicks Gobblin Thunder at my local shooting range, setting up targets at 20, 30, and 40 yards. I used a variety of turkey loads, including Winchester Long Beard XR and Federal Premium TSS, to gauge its performance across different ammunition types. The weather was dry and mild, perfect for patterning.
The choke performed admirably, consistently producing significantly tighter and denser patterns compared to my old full choke. The Winchester Long Beard XR loads seemed to particularly benefit, creating devastating patterns even at the 40-yard mark. The ported design seemed to reduce recoil slightly, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
Installation was simple, and the extended knurl made tightening and loosening the choke effortless. I noticed a small amount of fouling accumulating in the ports after several shots, but nothing that concerned me. Overall, the first range session was very promising.
Extended Use & Reliability
After two turkey seasons using the Kicks Gobblin Thunder, I can confidently say it has become an indispensable part of my hunting setup. It has endured countless hours in the field, exposed to rain, mud, and extreme temperatures. The choke has consistently performed flawlessly, maintaining its tight patterns and ease of use.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear, with only slight discoloration of the blackened finish. Cleaning is relatively easy, requiring just a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent after each hunting trip. I ensure to apply a light coat of gun oil to prevent rust.
Compared to my previous experiences with standard chokes, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder has been a game-changer. My effective range has increased significantly, and I have harvested turkeys at distances I would have previously hesitated to shoot. It has instilled a new level of confidence in my turkey hunting abilities.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kicks Industries. This well-regarded company specializes in shotgun choke tubes known for their quality and performance.
- Gauge: 12. This choke is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns.
- Choke Tube System: Browning Invector Plus (+). This ensures compatibility with Browning shotguns using the Invector Plus choke system.
- Choke Type: Browning Invector Plus, Ported. The ported design helps to reduce recoil and improve pattern density.
- Gun Make: Browning. Designed and optimized for Browning shotguns.
- Constriction: .675. This tight constriction is ideal for turkey hunting, creating dense patterns at longer ranges.
- Fabric/Material: Stainless Steel. Providing durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Color: Blackened, Black. Offering a non-reflective finish that helps in the field.
- Additional Features: Extended. Making it easier to install and remove.
- Length: 6 in. Provides the length needed for superior shot control.
- Height: 1.1 in. This gives a substantial feel during installation/removal.
These specifications are crucial for turkey hunters because they directly impact pattern density, range, and recoil management. The .675 constriction is optimized for tight patterns, the ported design reduces recoil, and the stainless steel construction ensures longevity. Selecting the correct choke tube system ensures it will fit properly on compatible Browning shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder performs its primary job – delivering tight, consistent patterns for turkey hunting – exceptionally well. Its accuracy at extended ranges is impressive, and its reliability is unquestionable. The choke has consistently performed flawlessly, regardless of weather conditions or shot shell brand.
Its main strength lies in its ability to produce dense patterns with minimal flyers, effectively extending the hunter’s ethical shooting range. A minor weakness is that cleaning the ports can be slightly tedious, requiring a small brush and solvent. Despite this, its advantages far outweigh this inconvenience.
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder not only meets expectations but exceeds them. Its performance has significantly improved my turkey hunting success, making it a valuable asset in the field. It delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and longer ranges.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder boasts a rugged, functional design, crafted from high-quality stainless steel. Its blackened finish provides a non-reflective surface, crucial for avoiding spooking wary gobblers. The weight is balanced, adding minimal weight to the shotgun.
The extended knurl allows for easy hand tightening and removal, even with gloved hands. There is minimal learning curve; it’s simple to install, pattern, and use effectively. Its ergonomic design contributes to a positive user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Kicks Gobblin Thunder ensures exceptional durability. With proper care, it should last for many hunting seasons. The choke tube requires occasional cleaning to remove fouling and prevent corrosion.
Cleaning involves removing the choke, scrubbing it with a bore brush and solvent, and applying a light coat of gun oil. The process is straightforward and requires minimal time and effort. With proper maintenance, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder will remain a reliable and valuable hunting tool.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder comes as a standalone choke tube and does not include any additional accessories. However, its performance can be further optimized by experimenting with different turkey loads and shot sizes. Compatibility is limited to Browning shotguns with the Invector Plus choke system.
While no specific customization options exist for the choke itself, its performance can be tailored by selecting appropriate ammunition. High-quality turkey loads like Winchester Long Beard XR or Federal Premium TSS are recommended. The product is not compatible with accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675
Pros
- Exceptional pattern density: Provides tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges.
- Durable stainless steel construction: Ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion.
- Extended knurl: Allows for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands.
- Ported design: Reduces recoil and muzzle climb for faster follow-up shots.
- Improved ethical shooting range: Allows for cleaner, more humane kills.
Cons
- Cleaning ports can be tedious: Requires extra effort to remove fouling from the ports.
- Not compatible with all shotguns: Only fits Browning shotguns with Invector Plus choke system.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675?
Perfect for: Turkey hunters seeking to improve their effective range and pattern density with their Browning shotgun will greatly benefit from the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675. It’s also ideal for hunters who appreciate durable, high-quality equipment that can withstand harsh conditions.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who do not own a Browning shotgun with the Invector Plus choke system should avoid this product. Also, those who primarily hunt turkeys at very close ranges (inside 20 yards) may not require the extended range and tighter patterns offered by this choke.
Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality turkey loads like Winchester Long Beard XR or Federal Premium TSS are essential for maximizing the performance of this choke. A choke tube wrench and bore cleaning kit are also recommended for proper installation and maintenance.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675 is an exceptional turkey choke that delivers on its promises of tighter patterns and extended range. Its durable construction, ergonomic design, and proven performance make it a valuable asset for any serious turkey hunter using a compatible Browning shotgun.
The price is justified by the significant improvement in pattern density and ethical shooting range. While cleaning the ports can be slightly tedious, the benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience. This choke is a worthy investment.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Kicks Gobblin Thunder to any turkey hunter looking to enhance their shotgun’s performance and increase their success in the field. It has transformed my turkey hunting experience. If you’re ready to take your gobbler game to the next level, give the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675 a shot – you won’t be disappointed!