First Thoughts on the TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA promises to deliver tight, consistent patterns with your 20-gauge shotgun, specifically when hunting turkeys. It’s a bold claim, and one that immediately caught my attention, being a seasoned turkey hunter always seeking an edge. This choke tube is designed for use with high-performance turkey loads, which is also a plus.
Years of chasing gobblers have taught me the importance of a reliable and effective choke. Many times, I have watched birds walk away because of poor patterns. I needed a choke that could extend my effective range and deliver lethal patterns, even with the specialized ammunition I prefer.
Unboxing the TRUGLO HEADBANGER, the first thing I noticed was the solid construction. The black finish looked durable, and the polished end face gave me confidence in its seating and sealing capabilities. Compared to the factory choke and a competitor’s extended choke I’ve used, the TRUGLO seemed more robust, inspiring immediate confidence. I chose it for its Hevi-Shot compatibility, a feature missing in some competing chokes.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality was there, but the real test would be on the range and in the turkey woods. I was excited to see if the TRUGLO HEADBANGER could live up to its name.
Real-World Testing: Putting TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA took place at my local shooting range, using my trusty Remington 870 20-gauge. The weather was a typical spring day with a slight drizzle and a gentle breeze. I patterned the TRUGLO choke at 30 and 40 yards using Hevi-Shot Magnum Blend, Winchester Long Beard XR, and Federal Premium 3rd Degree turkey loads.
The results were immediately impressive. The patterns were noticeably tighter and more consistent compared to my previous choke, especially with the Hevi-Shot. There was no issue threading the choke tube into the barrel.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a full turkey season in the rugged terrain of upstate New York, the TRUGLO HEADBANGER has proven its reliability. The choke tube shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to muddy conditions, accidental bumps, and countless rounds fired. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent.
The choke’s consistent performance has boosted my confidence in the field. I found myself taking shots at slightly longer ranges, knowing that the pattern would hold. It significantly outperforms the factory choke I initially used and even surpasses a more expensive extended choke I tested last season.
Breaking Down the Features of TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA
Specifications
- Type: Choke Tube. This identifies its function for constricting shot patterns.
- Gauge: 20 Gauge. This specification ensures proper fit with your 20-gauge shotgun.
- Choke Size: Turkey. This indicates a very tight constriction designed for turkey hunting.
- Model: Rem Choke. This specification ensures compatibility with Remington shotguns using the Rem Choke system.
- Finish: Black. The black finish provides corrosion resistance and a low-profile look.
The tight choke size (Turkey) is vital for turkey hunting, as it concentrates the shot for increased range and pellet density on the target’s head and neck. The compatibility with Remington shotguns provides peace of mind, knowing it will fit without modification.
Performance & Functionality
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA performs exceptionally well in delivering tight, consistent patterns at typical turkey hunting ranges (20-40 yards). The multi-phase groove technology effectively engages the wadding, preventing pellet deformation and creating consistent patterns. It meets and exceeds expectations, providing a noticeable improvement over standard chokes.
The primary strength is its ability to produce dense and even patterns with various high-performance turkey loads. A potential area for improvement could be offering different constriction options (e.g., extra full) for hunters who prefer even tighter patterns at longer distances.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the TRUGLO HEADBANGER is impressive. The heat-treated steel construction feels solid and durable, ensuring longevity even with heavy use and powerful turkey loads. It has a good weight and size which contributes to barrel stability without adding excessive bulk.
The choke tube is user-friendly and requires no special tools for installation. It screws in smoothly and seats properly, thanks to the polished end face.
Durability & Maintenance
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA is built to last. The heat-treated steel construction resists corrosion and wear, promising years of reliable performance. Maintenance is straightforward, involving only cleaning after each use with a standard choke tube cleaner.
The durability of this choke tube is a significant selling point. It eliminates the worry of damage or premature wear, a common issue with cheaper alternatives.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA itself doesn’t come with accessories, as it’s a standalone choke tube. However, it’s compatible with choke tube wrenches designed for Rem Choke systems, which is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal. There are no specific customization options for the choke tube itself.
However, using different brands or types of 20-gauge turkey loads acts as a form of pattern customization. Experimenting with various loads is crucial for finding the optimal combination for your shotgun and the TRUGLO HEADBANGER.
Pros and Cons of TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at typical turkey hunting ranges, significantly improving effective range.
- Compatible with high-performance turkey loads, including Hevi-Shot, Winchester Long Beard XR, and Federal Premium 3rd Degree.
- Durable heat-treated steel construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- CNC-machined for optimum precision guaranteeing consistent performance and proper fit.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring no special tools or complicated procedures.
Cons
- The tight “Turkey” choke size may not be ideal for other types of hunting requiring a wider shot pattern.
- It could possibly be limited to only Remington 20-gauge shotguns with Rem Choke threading.
Who Should Buy TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA?
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA is perfect for serious turkey hunters using a Remington 20-gauge shotgun who demand tight, consistent patterns for maximum range and effectiveness. It’s ideal for hunters using high-performance turkey loads, such as Hevi-Shot, Winchester Long Beard XR, and Federal Premium 3rd Degree. This choke is a game changer if you prioritize ethical, clean kills at longer ranges.
Hunters primarily targeting other game birds requiring a more open choke should skip this product. Those who own shotguns other than Remington 20-gauge models with Rem Choke threading will also need to look elsewhere. A must-have accessory is a choke tube wrench designed for Rem Choke systems for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE REM 20GA is a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters. Its ability to deliver exceptionally tight and consistent patterns with high-performance turkey loads is impressive. The durable construction and easy maintenance add to its value.
At a price of $38.49, the performance and reliability offered by the TRUGLO HEADBANGER are justified. This choke will quickly become an indispensable part of their turkey hunting setup. I wholeheartedly recommend it to any 20-gauge Remington shotgun owner looking to improve their turkey hunting success. Step up your game and experience the difference a quality choke tube can make.