What Makes Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste Stand Out?
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste is a specialized choke tube designed for 20-gauge shotguns utilizing the Benelli Crio Plus system. Manufactured by Rob Roberts Gun Works, this choke is engineered for close-range targets, emphasizing pattern density through unique internal cuts. It aims to elevate the performance of your shotgun at distances where pattern consistency is paramount.
I was looking for a choke tube that could provide exceptionally tight patterns at close ranges for upland bird hunting, specifically quail in dense cover. The standard choke tubes weren’t delivering the pattern density I needed for quick, clean kills in those conditions. After researching various options and reading about the specialized design of the RR1 Raptor, I decided to give it a try, hoping it would solve my patterning problem.
Upon unboxing the Rob Roberts Gun Works choke, I immediately noticed the robust feel and precise machining of the 17-4 PH stainless steel. The weight felt substantial, hinting at its durability, and the internal cuts were visibly different from standard choke tubes. The finish was clean and professional, giving a sense of confidence in its build quality.
Compared to a standard factory choke and a Carlson’s extended choke I own, the RR1 Raptor’s internal design was the most striking difference. The others had simple, smooth interiors, while the Raptor featured noticeable, complex cuts intended to shape the shot pattern. I chose the Rob Roberts Gun Works choke because of its reputation for producing extremely tight, consistent patterns at close ranges; other chokes focused more on versatility across different distances. My hope was that specialized design would give me the edge I was looking for in tight hunting situations.
My first impression was a blend of excitement and cautious optimism. While the build quality was undeniable, I was eager to see how these design features would translate to real-world performance at the range and in the field. I couldn’t wait to pattern the choke and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste at my local shooting range, focusing on patterning the choke at 20 yards. I used a variety of 20-gauge loads, including #7.5 and #8 shot, which are common for quail hunting. The initial results were immediately impressive, showing a significantly tighter and denser pattern compared to my standard modified choke.
The weather was clear and calm during the initial testing. However, I made sure to return on a day with a slight breeze to see if it impacted the pattern consistency; thankfully, it remained predictable. The choke tube was simple to install, and I noticed no issues with cycling or extraction after firing multiple rounds.
The only initial surprise was just how tight the pattern was at 20 yards; it was significantly smaller than I anticipated. I realized quickly that this choke was truly optimized for extremely close-range engagements and might not be suitable for longer shots. After a few adjustments to my technique and understanding the choke’s limitations, I became very comfortable with its performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during quail season, the Rob Roberts Gun Works choke has proven to be remarkably reliable. It has consistently delivered tight, dense patterns that have translated into cleaner kills on fast-moving birds in heavy cover. The choke shows no signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to the harsh conditions of the field.
After each hunting trip, I clean the choke tube thoroughly with a bore brush and solvent to remove any residue and prevent corrosion. It’s a simple process that takes just a few minutes and ensures the choke remains in optimal condition. The stainless-steel construction makes it easy to clean and resistant to rust.
Compared to my previous experiences with standard choke tubes, the RR1 Raptor has significantly improved my success rate in close-range hunting scenarios. While other chokes offer more versatility, the Rob Roberts Gun Works choke excels in its specialized role, making it a valuable tool for specific hunting situations. The tight pattern it delivers provides a noticeable advantage in dense cover where quick shots are essential.
Breaking Down the Features of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Rob Roberts Gun Works
- Fabric/Material: 17-4 PH Stainless Steel. This material is known for its high strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand high temperatures.
- Gauge: 20. Specifically designed for 20-gauge shotguns, ensuring optimal performance and pattern.
- Choke Tube System: Benelli Crio Plus. Compatibility with the Benelli Crio Plus system allows for easy installation and secure fit in compatible shotguns.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the choke’s performance and longevity. The 17-4 PH stainless steel ensures the choke can withstand the rigors of repeated use and exposure to harsh environments. The Benelli Crio Plus compatibility guarantees a secure and reliable fit, preventing any issues with cycling or extraction.
Performance & Functionality
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste excels at producing exceptionally tight and dense patterns at close ranges. This is primarily due to the internal cuts that are designed to shape and control the shot cloud. This feature is invaluable for hunting scenarios where quick, accurate shots are required in dense cover.
The primary strength of this choke is its ability to deliver consistent, tight patterns that improve the likelihood of clean kills at close range. A potential weakness is its limited effective range, as the tight pattern may become too concentrated at longer distances. It certainly meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rob Roberts Gun Works choke is constructed from high-quality 17-4 PH stainless steel, giving it a robust and durable feel. The weight is substantial, yet balanced, contributing to the overall quality of the product.
The choke is user-friendly and requires no special tools for installation or removal, thanks to its Benelli Crio Plus compatibility. The smooth finish and precise machining ensure a secure fit and prevent any issues with cycling or extraction.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from 17-4 PH stainless steel, the Rob Roberts Gun Works choke is built to last. The material is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring the choke can withstand repeated use in various environmental conditions.
Maintaining the choke is simple and straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent. The stainless-steel construction makes it easy to remove residue and prevent rust, ensuring the choke remains in optimal condition for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste does not come with additional accessories, as it is a standalone choke tube. However, its Benelli Crio Plus compatibility means it can be used with any 20-gauge shotgun that utilizes this choke system.
There are no specific customization options for the choke itself, but users can experiment with different 20-gauge loads to fine-tune their patterns. The choke is compatible with a wide range of 20-gauge ammunition from various manufacturers, providing flexibility in load selection. This is useful to dial-in the best pattern for the particular shooting situation and target.
Pros and Cons of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and dense patterns at close ranges.
- Constructed from durable 17-4 PH stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and remove thanks to Benelli Crio Plus compatibility.
- Noticeably improves success rate in close-range hunting scenarios.
- Provides consistent pattern that can be reliably depended on.
Cons
- Limited effective range due to the extremely tight pattern.
- May not be suitable for hunting scenarios requiring longer shots.
Who Should Buy Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste?
This choke is perfect for upland bird hunters, especially those targeting quail, woodcock, or grouse in dense cover where shots are typically close and quick. It’s also well-suited for skeet shooters who prefer extremely tight patterns on station 8. It also suits home defense where close range encounters are anticipated.
This product is not ideal for hunters who primarily engage targets at longer distances. It would also not suit those seeking a versatile choke for a wide range of shooting scenarios. If you need a choke for longer-range waterfowl, this is not the correct choice.
A must-have accessory would be a choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal. Experimentation with different 20-gauge loads is highly recommended to find the optimal pattern for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions.
Conclusion on Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200284 RR1 Raptor Crio Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste is a specialized choke tube that excels in its specific role. It delivers exceptionally tight and dense patterns at close ranges, making it a valuable tool for hunters targeting fast-moving birds in dense cover.
The price is justified given the quality of materials, precise machining, and the noticeable improvement in performance it provides. It’s a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize close-range accuracy.
I would highly recommend the Rob Roberts Gun Works choke to any 20-gauge shotgun owner seeking to maximize their performance in close-range hunting scenarios. If you frequently find yourself taking quick shots at close targets, this choke could be a game-changer. Upgrade your shotgun’s performance today and experience the difference a specialized choke can make.
