CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR Review

First Thoughts on the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR

When I first heard about the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR, my interest was immediately piqued. As someone who spends a considerable amount of time waterfowl hunting, the promise of tighter, denser patterns with steel shot was incredibly appealing. The Carlson’s name is well-respected in the choke tube industry, and their reputation for quality and performance preceded this product.

I was looking for a choke tube set that would give me greater confidence and versatility in the field. The unpredictable nature of waterfowl hunting means that you often encounter birds at varying distances, and having the ability to quickly adjust your pattern density is a huge advantage. My previous experiences with standard choke tubes had left me wanting more consistent and predictable results.

Upon unboxing the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR, I was immediately impressed by the build quality. The tubes felt solid and well-machined, and the black finish was both aesthetically pleasing and practical for preventing glare in the field. The knurled ends for easy removal were a welcome touch, demonstrating attention to detail in the design.

Compared to some of the cheaper, generic choke tubes I’ve used in the past, the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR felt like a significant upgrade. I had also considered a Briley choke set, but the Carlson’s set offered a similar level of quality at a slightly more accessible price point. The laser-marked constrictions also made identification much easier than relying on tiny, hard-to-read markings.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to test these choke tubes in the field and see if they lived up to the hype. I hoped they would give me the edge I needed to bring down more birds cleanly and efficiently.

Real-World Testing: Putting CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR was on a late-season duck hunt in the flooded timber of Arkansas. The conditions were challenging: cold, wet, and with limited visibility due to the dense canopy. I primarily used the Mid-Range choke tube during the hunt, expecting shots between 25-40 yards.

The improvement in pattern density was immediately noticeable. Ducks that would have previously flown away with a few feathers ruffled now crumpled and fell cleanly from the sky. The choke tube provided consistent patterns, even with different brands and shot sizes of steel ammunition.

There was no fumbling or difficulty installing/uninstalling the tubes despite the cold, wet conditions. The knurled ends provided a secure grip, even with gloved hands. No issues arose during my first outing, which instilled considerable confidence.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full waterfowl season of heavy use, the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the exterior finish. Internal surfaces also remain free of scoring.

Cleaning is a breeze. A quick scrub with a choke tube brush and some solvent is all that’s needed to remove any buildup of residue. Periodic application of choke tube grease ensures smooth installation and removal.

Compared to my previous experiences with standard choke tubes, the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR has been a game-changer. The consistent patterns, easy maintenance, and durable construction have made it an indispensable part of my waterfowl hunting gear. I consistently harvest more birds with fewer follow-up shots.

Breaking Down the Features of CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR

Specifications

The CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR is designed for 12-gauge shotguns with Rem Choke threads. It is an extended choke tube, meaning that it protrudes slightly beyond the end of the shotgun barrel. The set includes a single Mid-Range (MR) and a single Long-Range (LR) choke tube.

  • Construction Material: Manufactured from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel, providing exceptional strength and corrosion resistance.
  • Extended Design: The extended design features a 25 percent longer parallel section than conventional choke tubes, contributing to more consistent and denser patterns.
  • Knurled End: Each choke tube is equipped with a knurled end for easy hand installation and removal, even in adverse conditions.
  • Laser Marking: The constriction size is laser marked on both the end and body of the choke tube for easy identification.
  • Steel Shot Compatibility: Designed for use with steel shot, allowing for effective waterfowl hunting in areas where lead shot is prohibited.

These specifications are critical for waterfowl hunters who demand consistent performance and reliability from their equipment. The durable construction ensures that the choke tubes can withstand the harsh conditions often encountered in the field. The extended design and specific constrictions provide hunters with the ability to tailor their patterns to different shooting distances and situations.

Performance & Functionality

The CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR excels in delivering tighter and denser patterns than standard choke tubes. The Mid-Range choke tube is ideal for shots between 25-40 yards, while the Long-Range choke tube is best suited for shots beyond 40 yards.

  • Pattern Density: The extended parallel section of the choke tube results in a more gradual constriction, minimizing pellet deformation and maximizing pattern density.
  • Consistency: The choke tubes deliver consistent patterns, even with different brands and shot sizes of steel ammunition.
  • Versatility: The combination of the Mid-Range and Long-Range choke tubes provides hunters with the versatility to adapt to different hunting situations.

While the Carlson’s choke tubes perform exceptionally well, it’s important to heed the manufacturer’s warnings regarding steel shot size and velocity. Using steel shot larger than BB or loads faster than 1550 FPS through the Long Range constriction can damage the choke tube and potentially the shotgun barrel. The product meets and exceeds expectations when parameters are respected.

Design & Ergonomics

The CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR features a simple and functional design. The black finish provides a low-glare surface that is less likely to spook birds.

  • Material Quality: The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides exceptional durability and corrosion resistance.
  • Knurled Grip: The knurled end allows for easy hand installation and removal.
  • Laser Etching: Laser-marked constrictions are visible and allow users to select the appropriate choke tube quickly.

The choke tubes are easy to install and remove, even with gloved hands. There is no learning curve associated with their use.

Durability & Maintenance

The CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR is built to last. The 17-4 stainless steel construction is highly resistant to corrosion and wear.

  • Corrosion Resistance: The stainless steel material prevents rust and corrosion, even in wet and humid environments.
  • Easy Cleaning: The smooth internal surfaces make the choke tubes easy to clean and maintain.
  • Long Lifespan: With proper care, the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR can provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick scrub with a choke tube brush and some solvent is all that’s needed to remove any buildup of residue. Periodic application of choke tube grease ensures smooth installation and removal.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR does not come with any additional accessories beyond the two choke tubes themselves. No significant customization options exist for choke tubes.

  • Thread Compatibility: The choke tubes are designed to fit any 12-gauge shotgun with Rem Choke threads.
  • Choke Tube Cases: A separate choke tube case can be purchased to protect the choke tubes when they are not in use.

No integration with other brands’ accessories occurs with the choke tubes. They are designed to work with any Rem Choke compatible shotgun and any brand of steel shot ammunition that meets the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Pros and Cons of CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR

Pros

  • Tighter, denser patterns: The extended design and specific constrictions result in significantly improved pattern density compared to standard choke tubes._
  • Enhanced range: The Mid-Range and Long-Range choke tubes allow hunters to effectively engage birds at a wider range of distances._
  • Durable construction: The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides exceptional strength and corrosion resistance._
  • Easy to use: The knurled ends and laser-marked constrictions make the choke tubes easy to install, remove, and identify._
  • Steel shot compatibility: Designed for use with steel shot, making them suitable for waterfowl hunting in areas where lead shot is prohibited._

Cons

  • Limited choke options: The set only includes two choke tubes (Mid-Range and Long-Range), which may not be sufficient for all hunting situations. More constrictions could improve flexibility._
  • Velocity restrictions: A steel shot speed of 1550FPS or less should be observed when using the long range choke._


Who Should Buy CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR?

The CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who demand consistent performance and reliability from their equipment. Hunters who regularly encounter birds at varying distances will appreciate the versatility offered by the Mid-Range and Long-Range choke tubes. The choke tubes are also ideal for hunters who hunt in areas where lead shot is prohibited, as they are designed for use with steel shot.

Hunters who primarily hunt over decoys at close range may not need the extended range provided by these choke tubes. A more open choke constriction may be more suitable for close-range shooting. Those who already own a wide variety of choke tubes, or have a ported barrel, may not see as much advantage from the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR.

A choke tube case and choke tube grease are must-have accessories for the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR. The case will protect the choke tubes when they are not in use, and the grease will ensure smooth installation and removal.

Conclusion on CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR

The CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR is a high-quality choke tube set that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. The tighter, denser patterns result in cleaner kills and fewer follow-up shots. The durable construction ensures that the choke tubes can withstand the harsh conditions often encountered in the field.

At a price of $72.20, the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR represents excellent value for the money. The improved performance and increased confidence that it provides are well worth the investment. I would personally recommend this choke tube set to any serious waterfowl hunter looking to improve their success in the field.

If you’re looking to take your waterfowl hunting to the next level, don’t hesitate to give the CARL CREM SET WF 12G REM MR&LR a try. You won’t be disappointed. Invest in the Carlson’s choke tube and watch your harvest count climb.


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