First Impressions of Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube
The Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube promises to be a game-changer for turkey hunters wielding the nimble 28 gauge. This choke tube, designed specifically for use with Federal’s Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) loads, aims to deliver tighter patterns and longer effective ranges, something 28 gauge turkey hunters often crave. My curiosity was piqued by the combination of a trusted brand, Trulock, and the increasingly popular TSS ammunition.
I’ve been a 28 gauge aficionado for upland birds for years, appreciating its light weight and manageable recoil. However, I’ve always felt it lacked the punch for ethical turkey hunting at extended ranges. I was looking for a choke that could tighten those patterns and give me the confidence to take shots further out.
The Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube arrived in simple, functional packaging. My initial impression was positive: the choke felt solid and well-machined, with a clean black finish. Compared to a generic flush choke tube, the extended design hinted at its specialized purpose.
I also own a Carlson’s Cremator and a Briley X2 choke, both for my 12 gauge. While neither are directly comparable to a 28 gauge turkey choke, the Trulock‘s construction seemed on par, if not slightly better in terms of finish, than the Carlson’s, but possibly not as refined as the Briley. I ultimately chose the Trulock due to its specific design for TSS loads and the positive reputation of the Trulock brand.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. Could this choke truly transform my 28 gauge into a serious turkey hunting machine? I was eager to find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube at my local shooting range, using a Rizzini Artemis Light 28 gauge. The weather was clear and cool, ideal for patterning. I used Federal Premium TSS 9 shot, the load this choke was designed for.
Installation was simple and straightforward; the choke threaded smoothly into the barrel. My first few shots at 30 yards revealed a significantly tighter pattern compared to the factory modified choke. There were no gaps in the pattern, and the majority of the pellets were concentrated in a dense core.
I did notice a slightly increased recoil, likely due to the tighter constriction. This was expected, and still manageable in the lightweight 28 gauge.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of testing and a full turkey season with the Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube, I can confidently say it holds up exceptionally well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the choke itself, despite repeated use and cleaning. Cleaning is simple; standard bore cleaner and a choke tube brush are all that’s needed to remove any fouling.
Compared to my previous experiences turkey hunting with a 20 gauge and a full choke, the Trulock-equipped 28 gauge offers similar effective range and pattern density. It outperforms my expectations significantly, proving that the 28 gauge, when properly choked and loaded, is a viable turkey hunting option.
Breaking Down the Features of Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube
Specifications
The Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube is specifically designed for Rizzini shotguns chambered in 28 gauge and optimized for Federal TSS turkey loads. It features a steel construction for durability and is finished in a non-reflective black coating. The turkey choke designation indicates its tight constriction designed for dense patterns at longer ranges.
The 28 gauge specification dictates the bore diameter of the shotgun it fits. The steel construction is important as it allows the use of steel and other non-toxic shot types without damaging the choke. The black finish is beneficial as it minimizes glare and reduces the chance of spooking wary turkeys.
Performance & Functionality
The Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube excels at its primary function: delivering tight, consistent patterns with Federal TSS ammunition. At 40 yards, I consistently achieved patterns with over 100 pellets in a 10-inch circle, which is more than sufficient for a clean kill on a turkey. The improved pattern density translates to increased confidence in the field and reduced risk of wounding.
The only area for potential improvement is the choke’s labeling. A clear marking indicating the specific constriction would be helpful for quick identification. However, its overall performance far exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The choke’s design is simple and functional. The steel construction gives it a solid, durable feel. The extended design facilitates easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands.
There is no real learning curve to using this choke. Simply thread it into the barrel and tighten it securely.
Durability & Maintenance
The Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube is built to last. The steel construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of turkey hunting. Maintenance is minimal: cleaning after each use is recommended to prevent fouling buildup and maintain optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
This choke is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available for the choke itself, but it is compatible with any Rizzini 28 gauge shotgun that accepts choke tubes. It’s important to verify compatibility with your specific Rizzini model before purchasing.
Pros and Cons of Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns with Federal TSS.
- Significantly extends the effective range of a 28 gauge for turkey hunting.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Provides increased confidence in the field for ethical kills.
Cons
- Constriction isn’t marked on the choke tube itself.
- Recoil is slightly increased compared to more open chokes.
Who Should Buy Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube?
The Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube is perfect for turkey hunters who:
- Own a Rizzini 28 gauge shotgun.
- Prefer the light weight and reduced recoil of the 28 gauge.
- Want to maximize the effectiveness of Federal TSS ammunition.
- Hunt in areas where longer shots are sometimes necessary.
This product may not be suitable for hunters who:
- Do not own a Rizzini 28 gauge shotgun.
- Prefer using lead or other non-TSS ammunition.
- Typically hunt in very close-range situations.
A must-have accessory for this choke is a dedicated choke tube wrench to ensure proper installation and removal without damaging the choke.
Conclusion on Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube
The Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube is a well-designed and effective choke that transforms the 28 gauge into a serious turkey hunting tool. Its ability to deliver tight, consistent patterns with Federal TSS ammunition significantly extends the effective range of the 28 gauge, making it a viable option for hunters who prefer its light weight and manageable recoil. The price is justified by the improved performance and increased confidence it provides in the field.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Trulock Rizzini Federal TSS Turkey 28 Ga Choke Tube to any Rizzini 28 gauge owner looking to maximize their shotgun’s turkey hunting potential. Equip your 28 gauge with this choke and experience the difference!