What Makes Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Stand Out?
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless choke tube is a premium offering designed for close-range shotgun applications. Crafted from high-strength 17-4 PH stainless steel and featuring internal cuts for optimized pattern density, it promises superior performance for clay shooters, upland bird hunters, and tactical users who require tight, consistent patterns at shorter distances. Rob Roberts Gun Works has a reputation for quality and innovation, and this choke tube aims to deliver on that promise.
My search for the RR1 Raptor began with frustration. I was consistently finding my patterns were too wide at the distances I typically engage clays, resulting in too many broken, but not dusted, clays. I wanted a choke that would tighten my pattern, improving my hit probability at close range.
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless arrived in a simple, functional package. The choke tube itself felt substantial, the stainless steel giving it a reassuring weight and a quality feel. The internal cuts were clearly visible and looked precisely machined.
I considered other choke tubes, including offerings from Briley and Carlson’s, but I was drawn to the RR1 Raptor‘s unique internal design and Rob Roberts Gun Works‘ reputation for pattern optimization. I was also intrigued by the use of 17-4 PH stainless steel, which promised excellent corrosion resistance and durability. Initial impressions were definitely positive, and I was eager to get it to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the RR1 Raptor was at my local sporting clays range. I installed the choke tube in my Browning Citori with Invector Plus threads, using a choke wrench for a snug fit. The weather was slightly overcast, but otherwise ideal shooting conditions.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The RR1 Raptor significantly tightened my patterns at the close-range stations. I saw a dramatic increase in broken clays, especially those previously only chipped. The performance boost was so significant, it took a few stations to adjust my lead.
There weren’t any immediate issues, other than getting used to the tighter pattern. The choke performed as advertised, giving me confidence at those closer shots that are critical in sporting clays.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or corrosion, even after being exposed to rain and humidity. The stainless steel construction has proven to be very durable.
Cleaning is straightforward. I simply remove the choke tube after each session and use a bore brush and solvent to remove any plastic wad residue. A light coat of oil keeps it protected and ready for the next use. Compared to my previous experience with cheaper choke tubes that quickly showed signs of rust, the RR1 Raptor is a clear winner in durability and ease of maintenance. This choke has outperformed my expectations in every way.
Breaking Down the Features of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Rob Roberts Gun Works. This tells me I’m dealing with a company known for its expertise in shotgun performance.
- Fabric/Material: 17-4 PH Stainless Steel. This offers exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and longevity compared to standard steel.
- Gauge: 12. A standard gauge fitting the needs of many shotgun users.
- Choke Tube System: Browning Invector Plus (+). This ensures compatibility with a wide range of Browning shotguns.
These specifications are important because they speak to the quality of materials and the compatibility of the Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless choke tube. The 17-4 PH stainless steel ensures that this choke tube will last.
Performance & Functionality
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless excels at its primary function: creating tight, dense patterns at close range. This significantly improves hit probability on close-in targets. However, this strength is also a weakness; it is not ideal for longer shots where a more open pattern is desired.
It consistently delivers the pattern I expect, and I’ve had no issues with it loosening or malfunctioning during use. It meets my expectations and delivers a noticeable improvement in my close-range shooting.
Design & Ergonomics
The RR1 Raptor is well-machined from solid stainless steel, giving it a robust and confidence-inspiring feel. The design is simple and functional, prioritizing performance over aesthetics. There’s no learning curve involved; it installs just like any other Invector Plus choke tube.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 PH stainless steel construction ensures the Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is as simple as cleaning after each use and applying a light coat of oil.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless does not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard choke tube. The choke itself does not offer much customization beyond being able to choose different loads to find the optimal pairing. While there aren’t specific customizations for the choke tube itself, it integrates seamlessly with any shotgun that accepts Invector Plus chokes, allowing for a wide range of other aftermarket accessories such as improved sights and recoil pads.
Pros and Cons of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless
Pros
- Dramatically improved pattern density at close range, leading to more broken targets.
- High-quality 17-4 PH stainless steel construction for exceptional durability and corrosion resistance.
- Simple installation and maintenance.
- Consistent performance with a variety of loads.
- Noticeable improvement in shooting confidence at close distances.
Cons
- Not suitable for long-range shooting due to its tight pattern.
- The specialized design might not be ideal for all types of shotgun shooting.
Who Should Buy Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless?
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless is perfect for sporting clays shooters who frequently encounter close-range targets, upland bird hunters who often flush birds at short distances, and tactical shotgun users who need tight patterns for breaching or close-quarters engagements. Anyone looking to maximize their hit probability on targets within 20-30 yards will benefit from this choke tube.
Those who primarily shoot at longer ranges, such as trap shooters or waterfowl hunters, should skip this product. They would be better served with a more open choke. A choke wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200294 RR1 Raptor Invector Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless is a specialized choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns at close range. The price is justified by the high-quality materials and noticeable performance improvement. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their close-range shooting with a 12-gauge shotgun. If you’re tired of chipping clays or missing close-in birds, give the RR1 Raptor a try.