First Thoughts on the Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide
The Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide choke tube promises enhanced performance for skeet shooting and upland bird hunting. This choke combines Browning’s renowned quality with a durable, corrosion-resistant design. I was intrigued by the claims of improved shot patterns and the added muzzle weight for a smoother swing.
As a seasoned wingshooter and tactical gear enthusiast, I’m always seeking equipment that elevates my field experience. I was looking for a choke tube that provided consistent, wide patterns at close range for flushing birds like Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock. I needed reliability and durability in diverse hunting conditions.
Upon receiving the choke, I immediately noticed the robust build quality. The stainless steel construction felt solid, and the black oxide finish gave it a sleek, professional look. Compared to my older, blued steel choke tubes, the Browning Midas felt noticeably more substantial. I chose this over a ported choke because I wanted to minimize any potential increase in muzzle blast noise. My initial impression was one of quality and thoughtful design, leaving me eager to test its performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide was on a crisp autumn morning in the Pennsylvania woods. I was hunting Ruffed Grouse with my trusty Browning BPS 12 gauge. The terrain was a mix of thick underbrush and open clearings, ideal for putting the choke to the test in a real-world hunting scenario.
The choke performed admirably in the diverse conditions. The Skeet constriction provided a consistently wide and even shot pattern at the typical ranges encountered when grouse hunting (15-25 yards). I experienced clean, ethical kills even when my shots weren’t perfectly centered on the bird. There were no malfunctions, and the choke remained securely in place throughout the hunt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of hunting (approximately 20 hunts), the Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of rust or corrosion despite exposure to rain, snow, and mud. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a bore brush and solvent after each hunt is all it takes.
Compared to cheaper, aftermarket choke tubes I’ve used in the past, the Browning choke offers a noticeable improvement in pattern consistency and overall reliability. My previous experiences with less expensive chokes often involved inconsistent patterns and a shorter lifespan. The Browning Midas outperforms them in every category.
Breaking Down the Features of Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide
Specifications
The Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide choke tube is designed for Browning shotguns with the Invector-Plus choke system. It is specifically chambered for 12 Gauge shotguns. The constriction type is Skeet, optimized for close-range, wide-pattern shooting.
The choke is constructed from stainless steel, ensuring excellent corrosion resistance and durability. The black oxide finish further enhances corrosion resistance and provides a non-reflective surface. The package includes one choke tube. This specific design allows for easy identification and compatibility with various Browning shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide choke tube excels in providing wide, even patterns at close range. This makes it ideal for skeet shooting and hunting fast-moving upland birds. The Skeet constriction delivers consistent performance.
The only potential drawback is that the Skeet constriction is not ideal for longer-range shots. For longer shots, a tighter constriction would be more appropriate. It absolutely meets my expectations for close-range upland bird hunting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Browning Midas choke boasts a high-quality build. The stainless steel construction and black oxide finish exude durability and craftsmanship. Installation and removal are simple and straightforward, requiring no special tools beyond a standard choke wrench.
The choke is designed for ease of use, even for those new to choke tube systems. The laser engraving clearly indicates the choke constriction. This eliminates any guesswork in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel construction and black oxide finish, the Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide is built to last. Routine maintenance involves cleaning after each use. This is easily accomplished with standard gun cleaning supplies.
With proper care, this choke tube should provide years of reliable service. The robust materials and finish make it resistant to wear and tear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide choke tube itself doesn’t come with additional accessories beyond the choke tube. It is compatible with any standard Invector-Plus choke wrench. There are no specific customization options beyond selecting different choke constrictions within the Invector-Plus system.
Users can choose from a wide range of Invector-Plus choke tubes to suit different shooting scenarios. Browning and other manufacturers offer a variety of choke tubes in various constrictions. This offers a high degree of flexibility for adapting your shotgun to specific hunting or shooting conditions.
Pros and Cons of Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide
Pros
- Excellent quality stainless steel construction.
- Durable black oxide finish for corrosion resistance.
- Provides consistently wide and even patterns at close range.
- Easy to install and remove.
- Laser engraving clearly identifies choke constriction.
Cons
- Skeet constriction is not ideal for long-range shooting.
- Only includes one choke tube.
Who Should Buy Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide?
The Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide choke tube is perfect for upland bird hunters who frequently encounter close-range shooting opportunities. It is also excellent for skeet shooters looking for consistent, wide patterns. This choke is beneficial to those looking for a durable, reliable choke that will withstand the rigors of frequent use in the field.
This product may not be the best choice for hunters who primarily target waterfowl at longer ranges. Those hunters would benefit more from a tighter constriction, such as a modified or full choke. No must-have accessories or modifications are needed to use this choke effectively.
Conclusion on Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide
The Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide choke tube is a high-quality, durable, and reliable choke that delivers excellent performance for close-range shooting. The $40.49 price is justified by the superior materials, construction, and consistent performance. I wholeheartedly recommend this choke to anyone seeking to improve their performance in skeet shooting or upland bird hunting.
If you are serious about maximizing your success in the field, the Browning Invector-Plus Midas 12 Gauge Skeet Stainless Steel Black Oxide is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your shotgun today. You won’t regret it.