Let’s Dive into Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .665
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .665 choke tube promises tighter patterns and devastating performance for turkey hunters using shotguns with Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke systems. Designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns, this extra full ported choke aims to deliver superior shot density at longer ranges, a critical advantage when that wary gobbler hangs up just outside your usual kill zone. Kicks Industries aims to provide a superior product for the serious turkey hunter.
My quest for a tighter, more consistent pattern led me to the Kicks Gobblin Thunder. Too many times, I’d witnessed crippled birds escape due to inconsistent shot spreads, a frustrating experience that demanded a solution. I needed a choke that could reliably deliver a dense, even pattern at 40 yards and beyond, transforming marginal hits into clean kills.
Upon unboxing, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder exuded quality. The blackened stainless steel finish appeared robust and well-machined. The choke tube had a substantial feel, suggesting a solid build designed to withstand the rigors of hard hunting.
I considered the Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke and the Primos Jelly Head Max, both popular choices for turkey hunting. Ultimately, the reputation of Kicks Industries and the specific porting design of the Gobblin Thunder swayed my decision. The porting promised reduced recoil and less muzzle jump, potentially improving follow-up shots, a feature I found highly appealing.
My initial impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism. The choke looked the part of a high-performance accessory, but the true test would be on the range, patterning different loads to see if it lived up to the hype. I was eager to see if it could truly deliver the promised improvement in pattern density and consistency.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .665 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved a trip to my local shooting range, a controlled environment perfect for assessing pattern density and consistency. I mounted the Kicks Gobblin Thunder on my Benelli Nova, a reliable pump-action shotgun known for its versatility. I patterned the choke with various 12-gauge turkey loads, including Winchester Long Beard XR, Federal Premium Grand Slam, and Remington Nitro Turkey.
The choke performed remarkably well across the board. Patterns were noticeably tighter compared to the factory full choke that I usually used. The porting design did seem to mitigate recoil slightly, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
One surprise was how different loads performed through the same choke. The Winchester Long Beard XR consistently produced the tightest, most uniform patterns at 40 yards, while the Remington Nitro Turkey was a close second. The Federal Grand Slam, though still respectable, patterned slightly wider.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season of using the Kicks Gobblin Thunder, I can confidently say it has held up admirably. The stainless steel construction has proven resistant to rust and corrosion, despite exposure to wet and muddy conditions. There are no signs of wear and tear on the choke itself.
Maintenance has been simple. A quick cleaning with solvent and a brass brush after each use keeps it in optimal condition. It screws in and out of the shotgun easily, with no signs of binding or cross-threading.
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder has significantly outperformed my previous choke tube. I’ve experienced cleaner kills at longer ranges, and the increased confidence in my patterns has made me a more effective hunter. It’s a significant upgrade and a reliable performer.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .665
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .665 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance.
- The choke is designed for 12-gauge shotguns. This ensures compatibility with the most common shotgun platform used for turkey hunting.
- It uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tube system, allowing it to be used in a wide array of popular shotguns.
- The choke constriction is .665, an extra full choke designed for extremely tight patterns at extended ranges.
- It features an extended design, protruding slightly beyond the muzzle of the shotgun.
- It also features ported design, with holes drilled around the choke to reduce recoil and muzzle jump.
- The choke is constructed from stainless steel for durability and resistance to corrosion.
- The finish is blackened, which helps to reduce glare and provides a sleek, tactical look.
- The choke’s height (likely referring to the extended portion) is approximately 1.1 inches.
- Kicks Industries is the manufacturer.
These specifications are crucial for delivering the desired performance. The .665 constriction creates a tight, dense pattern. The extended and ported design reduces recoil. Finally, the stainless steel build ensures it can withstand the rigors of hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder performs its job exceptionally well, delivering consistently tight patterns that are lethal at extended ranges. Its accuracy is impressive, allowing for precise shot placement even at 40 yards and beyond. It is also very reliable.
The primary strength of this choke is its ability to produce dense, uniform patterns with a variety of turkey loads. The slightly reduced recoil is a welcome bonus, aiding in faster follow-up shots. A potential weakness might be its very tight constriction; it may not be ideal for extremely close-range shots where a wider pattern is preferred.
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder exceeded my expectations. I consistently achieved tighter patterns and more confident shots compared to my previous setup. The reduction in recoil was noticeable and appreciated, especially during extended range sessions.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder features a robust and well-machined build. The stainless steel material feels solid and durable. The blackened finish provides a sleek, tactical appearance while minimizing glare.
The choke is user-friendly and requires no special tools for installation or removal. The extended design allows for easy hand tightening. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Kicks Gobblin Thunder ensures long-lasting durability. It is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making it suitable for use in all weather conditions. A little cleaning is all that is needed.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with solvent and a brush is sufficient to keep it in optimal condition for many years. There are no intricate parts that require special attention.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder is a standalone product and does not come with any additional accessories. It does not require any modifications to the shotgun. While there are no direct customization options for the choke itself, it is compatible with a wide range of 12-gauge shotguns that accept Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes.
The choke’s performance can be further optimized by experimenting with different turkey loads to find the best match for your specific shotgun. The combination of the right load and the Kicks Gobblin Thunder can result in truly devastating patterns. It is also compatible with choke tube wrenches designed for extended chokes.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .665
Pros
- Consistently Tight Patterns: Delivers exceptionally dense and uniform patterns at extended ranges, increasing the effective range of your shotgun.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring resistance to rust and corrosion for long-lasting performance.
- Reduced Recoil: The ported design effectively mitigates recoil and muzzle jump, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots.
- Easy Installation & Maintenance: Simple to install and remove without special tools, and easy to clean and maintain for optimal performance.
- Enhanced Confidence: Provides increased confidence in shot placement, leading to cleaner kills and a more successful hunting experience.
Cons
- Tight Constriction: The extremely tight .665 constriction may not be ideal for close-range shots where a wider pattern is needed.
- Load Sensitivity: Performance can vary significantly depending on the specific turkey load used, requiring some experimentation to find the optimal combination.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .665?
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .665 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand maximum range and pattern density from their 12-gauge shotgun. It is especially well-suited for those hunting in areas where longer shots are common or necessary. Hunters using Beretta or Benelli shotguns will find this a seamless upgrade.
This product may not be the best choice for hunters who primarily hunt in dense cover where shots are typically very close range. Those who are recoil-sensitive may want to consider other options. Those who are new to shotgun choke tubes may want to consider a less constrictive choke.
A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal. Experimenting with different turkey loads is essential to find the optimal combination for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions. A good cleaning solvent and brass brush will aid in maintenance.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .665
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .665 is a high-performance choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and increased range for turkey hunters. Its durable construction, ported design, and easy maintenance make it a valuable addition to any serious hunter’s gear. It is manufactured by Kicks Industries.
The price of $69.57 is justified given the choke’s performance and quality. It represents a worthwhile investment for those seeking to improve their turkey hunting success.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kicks Gobblin Thunder to any experienced turkey hunter looking to maximize the performance of their 12-gauge Beretta or Benelli shotgun. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference that a quality choke tube can make – you won’t be disappointed!