What Makes Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai Stand Out?
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai isn’t just another choke tube; it’s a precision instrument engineered for serious turkey hunters. Rob Roberts Gun Works has a reputation for producing chokes that deliver exceptionally tight patterns, and this model is no exception, promising to bring down gobblers at impressive distances. The Raptor series features a single constriction design, simplifying choke selection and ensuring optimal performance with both TSS and lead shot.
For years, I’ve been chasing that elusive longbeard, often frustrated by inconsistent patterns from standard choke tubes. I needed a choke that could reliably deliver tight, dense patterns at longer ranges, particularly when using the newer, more expensive Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) loads. The promise of a “hotter core pattern” at impressive distances drew me to the Rob Roberts Gun Works Raptor Choke.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The 17-4 PH stainless steel felt incredibly solid, and the green Cerakote finish was both attractive and functional, providing excellent corrosion resistance. The machined claw marks added a touch of aggressive styling and, more importantly, provided a secure grip for installation and removal.
I’ve used several other turkey chokes, including the Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke and the Briley X2. While both are decent, I found the Carlson’s to be optimized almost exclusively for Winchester Long Beard XR ammunition, limiting versatility, and the Briley, while offering good patterns, lacked the aggressive exterior gripping that the Rob Roberts choke provided. The Rob Roberts Gun Works choke seemed to offer a better balance of pattern density and versatility with different shot types.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality was certainly impressive, and the design seemed well thought out. I was eager to get to the range and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, which offers a dedicated pattern board specifically for shotgun enthusiasts. I tested the Rob Roberts Gun Works choke with a Benelli Super Black Eagle II chambered in 12 gauge, using both Federal TSS #9 shot and Winchester Long Beard XR #5 lead shot. The conditions were fairly typical for an early spring morning – cool, slightly damp, with a light breeze.
The choke performed remarkably well with both types of ammunition. At 40 yards, the Federal TSS produced a dense, even pattern with a very tight core, easily placing over 200 pellets within a 10-inch circle. The Winchester Long Beard XR also delivered a solid pattern, though slightly less dense than the TSS, but still more than adequate for ethical turkey hunting at that distance.
Installation and removal were straightforward, thanks to the well-machined claw marks. No special tools were needed. After a few shots, I noticed the choke remained securely in place, with no signs of loosening.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple trips to the range and several days spent hunting in the field, the Rob Roberts Gun Works choke has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The Cerakote finish has held up well, showing no signs of scratching or wear, despite being exposed to mud, rain, and brush. The choke remains easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a quick wipe down after each use.
The durability of the 17-4 PH stainless steel is apparent. It has withstood repeated firing of heavy turkey loads without any signs of deformation or cracking. Compared to cheaper chokes I’ve used in the past, which often showed signs of wear after only a few seasons, the Rob Roberts choke feels like it will last for many years to come.
This choke has significantly outperformed my previous turkey chokes in terms of pattern density and consistency. I’ve gained a noticeable increase in effective range, allowing me to take ethical shots at birds that were previously just out of reach. This increased confidence has made my hunts more enjoyable and successful.
Breaking Down the Features of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai
Specifications
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai boasts several key specifications that contribute to its outstanding performance.
- Gauge: 12 Gauge. This is the most common shotgun gauge for turkey hunting, offering a good balance of power and manageable recoil.
- Choke Tube System: Benelli Crio Plus. This system is designed to improve patterns and reduce recoil. It is compatible with a wide range of Benelli shotguns and other brands that utilize the Crio Plus system.
- Fabric/Material: 17-4 PH Stainless Steel. This high-strength stainless steel is incredibly durable and corrosion-resistant, ensuring a long lifespan even in harsh conditions.
- Color: Green Cerakote. Cerakote provides an added layer of protection against the elements and offers a non-reflective finish, which is essential for hunting.
- Raptor Series Design: Single Constriction. This simplifies choke selection, optimizing performance for both TSS and lead shot without requiring multiple chokes for different loads.
These specifications are not just marketing buzzwords; they translate directly into real-world performance. The 17-4 PH stainless steel ensures the choke can withstand the pressures of heavy turkey loads, while the Cerakote finish protects against rust and corrosion. The Crio Plus system and the Raptor Series design work together to deliver exceptionally tight and consistent patterns.
Performance & Functionality
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai excels in its primary function: delivering tight, dense patterns at extended ranges. Its accuracy is impressive, consistently placing a high percentage of pellets within the vital area of a turkey target at 40 yards and beyond. The reliability is also outstanding, with no issues experienced during testing or in the field.
The choke’s strength lies in its ability to produce consistent patterns with a variety of ammunition types, although it seems to be particularly well-suited for TSS loads. One potential area for improvement might be offering different constriction options for hunters who prefer slightly more open patterns for closer shots.
The choke definitely meets and, in many ways, exceeds my expectations. It provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density compared to other chokes I’ve used, giving me greater confidence in my ability to make clean, ethical shots.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rob Roberts choke features a well-thought-out design that balances aesthetics and functionality. The 17-4 PH stainless steel construction feels solid and durable, while the green Cerakote finish adds a touch of style and provides excellent corrosion resistance. The machined claw marks not only look aggressive but also provide a secure grip for easy installation and removal.
The choke is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no special tools or knowledge to install. The single constriction design eliminates the guesswork of choosing the right choke for different situations.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai is built to last. The 17-4 PH stainless steel construction and Cerakote finish provide excellent protection against the elements, ensuring that it will withstand years of use in the field.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use is usually sufficient to remove any powder residue or debris. Periodic cleaning with a solvent designed for firearms can help to keep it in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond the choke tube itself. However, it is compatible with any Benelli Crio Plus compatible shotgun.
There are no user-adjustable features on the choke itself. The fixed constriction is designed to provide optimal performance with a wide range of ammunition types. Hunters seeking greater customization may prefer chokes with adjustable constrictions or those specifically designed for certain ammunition types.
Pros and Cons of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and dense patterns at extended ranges.
- Constructed from durable 17-4 PH stainless steel with a corrosion-resistant Cerakote finish.
- Simple single constriction design eliminates guesswork and optimizes performance with both TSS and lead shot.
- Easy to install and remove, thanks to the machined claw marks.
- Noticeably increases effective range, allowing for more ethical and successful turkey hunts.
Cons
- The fixed constriction may not be ideal for hunters who prefer more open patterns for close-range shots.
- Higher price point compared to some other turkey chokes on the market.
Who Should Buy Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai?
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand the best possible performance from their shotgun. It’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize tight, dense patterns at extended ranges and who are willing to invest in a high-quality, durable choke tube. This choke shines when using premium TSS loads, maximizing their effectiveness.
Hunters who primarily hunt in thick cover or at close ranges may find the fixed constriction too tight. A more open choke, or an adjustable choke, might be a better option for those situations. Hunters on a tight budget may also want to consider more affordable alternatives.
A must-have accessory for this choke is a quality choke tube wrench to ensure proper installation and prevent damage. A bore snake or cleaning rod is also essential for maintaining the choke and your shotgun barrel.
Conclusion on Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200277 Turkey Choke Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stai is a top-tier turkey choke that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While the price point is higher than some other options on the market, the improved pattern density and increased effective range justify the investment for serious turkey hunters.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke to anyone looking to maximize the performance of their shotgun and increase their chances of success in the field. If you’re serious about turkey hunting and demand the best, the Rob Roberts Raptor Choke is definitely worth considering. Don’t settle for mediocre patterns; upgrade your shotgun with the Rob Roberts Gun Works choke and experience the difference for yourself!