Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY Review

First Thoughts on the Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY

The Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY is marketed as a specialized choke tube designed to deliver exceptionally tight patterns for turkey hunting. As an experienced outdoorsman and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless choke tubes come and go, each promising tighter patterns and longer effective ranges. This one from Browning, with its directional porting and optimized shot recommendations, piqued my interest enough to put it to the test.

I was looking for a choke tube that could consistently deliver dense patterns at extended ranges, giving me an edge when chasing those wary toms. My old full choke was simply not cutting it anymore, often resulting in patterns that were too open beyond 30 yards. The promise of a super-tight, XFULL pattern, combined with recoil reduction, made the Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY an attractive option.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust stainless steel construction with its sleek black oxide finish. It felt solid and well-made, definitely a step up from some of the cheaper aftermarket choke tubes I’ve handled. The camo band is a nice touch, blending it in with the shotgun. Compared to a standard full choke tube and a ported Carlson’s turkey choke I own, the Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY seemed to have more aggressive porting.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. Choke tubes are often a matter of trial and error, finding the right combination of choke and load that works best with your shotgun. However, the quality construction and specific design features of the Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY gave me hope that it would live up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY was at my local shooting range, patterning it with various turkey loads. I focused on #4, #5, and #6 shot as recommended by Browning. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions for patterning. Installation was simple and straightforward, screwing in smoothly and securely to my Browning Invector-choked shotgun.

I immediately noticed a difference in recoil compared to my standard full choke. The directional porting seemed to do its job, making follow-up shots quicker and more comfortable. The patterns, especially with #5 shot, were impressively tight at 40 yards, significantly denser than what I was used to seeing. There were no malfunctions or issues with the choke tube itself.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of testing and, more importantly, hunting, the Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY has proven to be a reliable performer. It’s been through several hunts in varying conditions, from crisp early mornings to damp, drizzly afternoons. The stainless steel construction has held up admirably, showing no signs of rust or corrosion.

Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent is all it takes to remove any residue. Compared to some of my previous experiences with aftermarket chokes, the Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY feels much more durable and dependable. It consistently delivers the tight patterns I need for ethical and effective turkey hunting.

Breaking Down the Features of Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY

Specifications

• Browning Invector Choke System Compatibility: Designed specifically for shotguns utilizing the Browning Invector choke system. This ensures a proper fit and reliable performance with compatible firearms.
• Directional Porting: Features directional porting designed to reduce felt recoil. This makes for more comfortable shooting, especially during extended range sessions or when using heavier turkey loads.
• Stainless Steel Construction: Constructed from stainless steel for enhanced durability and resistance to corrosion. This ensures a long lifespan, even with regular use in various weather conditions.
• Black Oxide Finish: The black oxide finish provides a sleek, non-reflective surface. It also enhances corrosion resistance.
• Camo Band: Includes a camo band for added concealment. This helps to blend the choke tube with the shotgun’s overall camouflage pattern.
• Optimized for #4, #5, and #6 Shot: Specifically designed to perform optimally with #4, #5, and #6 shot sizes. This helps to achieve the tightest possible patterns for turkey hunting.
• 0.040″ Constriction: Features a 0.040″ constriction. This provides an XFULL pattern, resulting in extremely dense shot patterns at extended ranges.
• 12 Gauge: Designed for 12 gauge shotguns. This is the most common shotgun gauge for turkey hunting.
• Extended Choke Tube: The extended design makes for easier removal and installation. It also helps to protect the muzzle of the shotgun.

These specifications are crucial because they contribute directly to the choke tube’s performance and longevity. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the directional porting helps manage recoil. The optimized shot size recommendation and 0.040″ constriction are key to achieving the tight patterns necessary for successful turkey hunting at longer ranges.

Performance & Functionality

The Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY performs its job exceptionally well. It delivers incredibly tight patterns, extending the effective range of my shotgun significantly. The directional porting noticeably reduces recoil, making follow-up shots faster and more comfortable.

Its main strength is its ability to consistently produce dense, even patterns at 40 yards and beyond, a critical factor in ethical turkey hunting. A potential weakness is that the extremely tight pattern may be too constricting for closer shots, potentially leading to a missed bird if it’s too close. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations, proving to be a valuable addition to my turkey hunting gear.

Design & Ergonomics

The Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY boasts a robust build quality, constructed from durable stainless steel that feels solid and well-made. Its weight is negligible, not affecting the balance of the shotgun. The extended design makes installation and removal easy, even with gloved hands.

It’s remarkably user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or skills for installation. The only potential learning curve involves patterning different loads to find the optimal combination for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its stainless steel construction and black oxide finish, the Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY is built to last. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Maintaining this choke tube is relatively simple, requiring only a bore brush, solvent, and gun oil.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY comes with a camo band for added concealment. While it doesn’t offer direct customization options like adjustable ports, its compatibility with the Browning Invector choke system means it can be paired with various shotgun models and aftermarket accessories. The choke tube is compatible with most standard choke wrenches designed for Invector chokes.

Pros and Cons of Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY

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Who Should Buy Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY?

The Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand the tightest possible patterns at extended ranges. It’s also well-suited for hunters who appreciate recoil reduction, making it a comfortable option for those who are recoil-sensitive. Experienced hunters who understand the importance of patterning their shotgun and selecting the right load for their choke will benefit most from this product.

Hunters who primarily hunt in thick cover where shots are typically very close (inside 20 yards) might want to skip this product. Also, if you are new to turkey hunting and haven’t spent time patterning different loads, a more versatile choke tube might be a better starting point.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal.

Conclusion on Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY

The Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY is a specialized choke tube that delivers on its promise of incredibly tight patterns and reduced recoil. The price of $72.99 is justified by the quality construction, enhanced performance, and improved shooting experience it provides.

I would personally recommend the Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY to any serious turkey hunter looking to extend their effective range and increase their chances of success. It’s a well-made, reliable product that has earned a permanent place in my turkey hunting gear. So, if you’re ready to take your turkey hunting to the next level, consider investing in the Browning Choke Tube XFULL STRUT TKY – you won’t be disappointed.

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