What Makes Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel Stand Out?
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel choke tube promises to deliver exceptional long-range performance for 20-gauge shotguns. Rob Roberts Gun Works has built a solid reputation for innovation and quality in the shotgun choke world, specifically targeting waterfowl hunters. The RR3 Raptor is designed for geese and open-water ducks, and it utilizes internal cuts to optimize pattern density when paired with the right loads. This choke tube is made from 17-4 PH U.S. Stainless Steel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion.
I’ve spent countless hours chasing waterfowl, often frustrated by inconsistent patterns at longer ranges. My goal was to find a choke tube that would reliably extend my effective range on geese and ducks, leading to cleaner kills and fewer cripples.
The Rob Roberts Gun Works choke arrived in simple, functional packaging. Immediately, I was impressed with the heft and solid feel of the stainless steel. The machining looked precise and clean. I’ve used extended choke tubes from other manufacturers, but the Raptor’s distinctive internal cuts caught my eye, promising something different.
Compared to a standard flush-mount choke and a competitor’s extended choke tube, the RR3 Raptor has a unique design. The competitor’s choke didn’t have the intricate internal cuts that the Raptor boasts. I opted for the Rob Roberts Gun Works choke based on their reputation for pattern optimization and the promise of tighter, more consistent groups at longer distances.
My initial impression was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. While the build quality was evident, the proof would be in the patterning and performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel at a local shooting range known for its 50-yard patterning board. The weather was typical for late fall: cold and slightly drizzly.
The choke performed admirably with the recommended loads. I achieved significantly tighter and more consistent patterns at 40 and 50 yards compared to my previous choke setup. The birds on the pattern board were consistently peppered with pellets in the vital areas. The improved performance built confidence.
Initially, I found it easy to install and remove using a standard choke wrench. I didn’t need any special tools or modifications. There were no unexpected issues beyond the expected adjustments for different loads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during the waterfowl season, the RR3 Raptor continues to perform consistently. It has become my go-to choke for open water duck hunts and goose hunts where longer shots are common.
The choke has held up well to the rigors of hunting. I haven’t noticed any signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to mud, water, and the occasional accidental bump. Cleaning has been straightforward; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition.
Compared to my previous experiences with other choke tubes, the RR3 Raptor has exceeded my expectations. It provides more consistent and lethal patterns at longer ranges, which has translated to more birds in the bag and fewer crippling shots.
Breaking Down the Features of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel
Specifications
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel choke tube is specifically designed for 20-gauge shotguns with Mobilchoke threading. Its material is 17-4 PH U.S. Stainless Steel, which offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability. This choke is designed for long-range targets, specifically geese and open water ducks.
The fact that it’s made from 17-4 PH stainless steel means it can withstand harsh environments and repeated use without corroding or degrading. The 20-gauge compatibility ensures it fits a wide range of popular shotguns. The internal cuts are the key to its performance, designed to manipulate the shot column for optimal pattern density at extended ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel excels at its primary job: delivering tight, consistent patterns at long distances. It is particularly effective with steel shot loads typically used for waterfowl hunting.
Its strength lies in its ability to extend effective range, allowing for ethical and clean kills on waterfowl that would otherwise be out of reach. The only weakness might be its specialization; it’s not ideal for close-range shooting where a more open choke is preferred. It meets and exceeds my expectations for long-range performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel features a robust construction. The 17-4 PH stainless steel gives it a solid feel and contributes to its overall durability. It is easy to install and remove with a standard choke wrench.
The design is functional, with the extended length providing a visual indication of the choke’s presence. The internal cuts, while not visible from the outside, are critical to its performance.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel is built to last. The stainless steel construction ensures resistance to corrosion, even in wet and salty environments.
Maintenance is straightforward: cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use is sufficient to keep it in good working order. Given the robust construction, it should last for many seasons with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the choke tube itself. There are no readily available customization options, as its performance is primarily determined by its internal design.
It is compatible with any 20-gauge shotgun that uses the Mobilchoke system. Users can experiment with different loads to find the optimal combination for their specific shotgun and hunting conditions.
Pros and Cons of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel
Pros
- Exceptional long-range performance: Consistently delivers tighter patterns at extended distances.
- Durable stainless steel construction: Resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Improved pattern density: The internal cuts optimize shot distribution for ethical kills.
- Easy to install and maintain: Simple to clean and requires no specialized tools.
- Extends effective range: Allows for confident shots on waterfowl at longer distances.
Cons
- Not ideal for close-range shooting: The tight pattern may be too restrictive for close-quarters situations.
- Specialized use: Primarily designed for geese and open-water ducks, limiting its versatility for other game.
Who Should Buy Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel?
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel is perfect for waterfowl hunters who frequently encounter long-range shots. Specifically, it’s well-suited for goose hunters and those targeting ducks on open water. This choke is also a great choice for hunters who prioritize ethical kills and want to minimize crippling birds.
Hunters who primarily hunt in tight cover or at very close ranges should skip this product. Also, those seeking a versatile choke for various game types might find it too specialized.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality choke wrench to ensure proper installation and removal. Experimenting with different steel shot loads is highly recommended to find the optimal combination for your shotgun and hunting conditions.
Conclusion on Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel is a specialized choke tube that delivers on its promise of exceptional long-range performance. Its durable construction and optimized pattern density make it a valuable tool for waterfowl hunters.
At $143.89, the price is justified given the significant improvement in pattern performance and the increased confidence it provides in the field. For hunters struggling with long-range shots, this choke is a game-changer.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Rob Roberts Gun Works 200311 RR3 Raptor Mobil 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Steel to any serious waterfowl hunter looking to extend their effective range and improve their success rate. Invest in this choke, pattern your shotgun with various loads, and experience the difference it can make on your next hunt!