First Thoughts on the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve seen my fair share of shotgun chokes. From basic, factory-issued models to high-end, custom-designed tubes, I’ve learned what separates a good choke from a great one, especially when it comes to turkey hunting. The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650 immediately caught my attention due to its promise of “extreme patterns down range at further distances.” Manufactured by EAR, this choke aims to deliver precision and density, a critical factor for ethically harvesting a gobbler.
My search for the perfect turkey choke stems from years of frustration with inconsistent patterns from my Remington 870. Too often, I’ve witnessed near misses or, worse, poorly patterned shots that resulted in wounded birds. I needed a choke that could tighten my spread and extend my effective range, turning hunting opportunities into successful harvests.
Upon unboxing, the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke presents a solid, no-nonsense appearance. The matte black finish is functional and resists glare, a definite plus in the early morning turkey woods. The choke tube feels robust and well-machined, instilling confidence in its durability. Compared to a couple of other extended turkey chokes I’ve used, this one looks more aggressively ported, suggesting a design focused on tight patterns.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. While I’m intrigued by the design and promise of enhanced performance, the real test lies in the field. If this choke lives up to its claims, it could be a game-changer for my spring hunts.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke was on a chilly morning in the rolling hills of central Pennsylvania. I installed it in my Remington 870, using a choke tube wrench to ensure a snug fit. My ammunition of choice for this initial test was a 3-inch, #5 lead turkey load. The setup was used on a private farm known for its sizable wild turkey population.
The first few shots were taken at a target placed at 30 yards. The pattern was noticeably tighter and more consistent than what I was used to. There were no visible holes or inconsistencies. The point of impact was also pretty accurate based on my prior sight settings. No need to adjust.
One surprise was the slightly increased felt recoil. This is likely due to the tighter constriction of the choke forcing more energy back towards the shooter.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of dedicated use, the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. I put it through its paces in various conditions, including light rain and dusty environments. The matte black finish has held up well, showing no signs of wear or rust.
Cleaning the choke is a breeze. A quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent removes any powder residue or plastic wad buildup. It is essential to clean after each use to maintain its performance.
Compared to my previous choke tubes, the EAR Head Hunter has consistently delivered tighter and more lethal patterns at distances beyond 40 yards. This has significantly increased my confidence in taking longer shots when necessary. The patterns are so tight that I wouldn’t recommend using at anything less than 20 yards.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650
Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge, designed for use with 12-gauge shotguns. This is the most popular shotgun gauge for turkey hunting, making the choke highly versatile.
- Choke Size: Turkey (.650 constriction), optimized for tight patterns at extended ranges. The .650 constriction is a proven sweet spot for many turkey hunters seeking maximum range and pellet density.
- Model: Rem Choke, specifically threaded for Remington shotguns and those using the Rem Choke system. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of popular shotgun models.
- Finish: Matte Black, reducing glare and providing a durable, corrosion-resistant coating. This is a practical choice for hunting in various weather conditions.
- Designed with JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore designs. This feature promotes better shot & wad cup separation, resulting in denser and more precise patterns.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650 excels in its primary function: delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges. The choke’s .650 constriction and the JEBS multi-staged interior work in tandem to squeeze the shot cloud into a dense, lethal core. This means fewer missed opportunities and cleaner kills.
One area for potential improvement is the felt recoil, which is slightly more pronounced than with less constrictive chokes. However, this is a trade-off for the increased range and pattern density. Overall, this choke exceeds my expectations. It has proven to be a significant upgrade over my previous turkey chokes.
Design & Ergonomics
The matte black finish is not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing, blending seamlessly with most shotgun finishes. The extended design of the choke makes it easy to install and remove with a choke tube wrench. The build quality is robust, with no visible flaws in the machining or finish.
There’s no real learning curve associated with using this choke. It’s as simple as threading it into your shotgun’s barrel.
Durability & Maintenance
The EAR Head Hunter is constructed from high-quality steel, ensuring long-lasting durability. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. Its construction will enable it to withstand the rigors of turkey hunting for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke is primarily a standalone product, designed to enhance the performance of your existing shotgun. There are no additional accessories included. However, you can fine-tune your setup by experimenting with different brands and types of turkey loads to find the optimal combination for your shotgun and hunting style.
This choke is compatible with most choke tube wrenches designed for Remington-style chokes. It is crucial to use the correct wrench to avoid damaging the choke or your shotgun barrel.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650
Pros
- Delivers extremely tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges.
- The JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design improves pattern density.
- Matte black finish reduces glare and resists corrosion.
- Easy to install and remove with a choke tube wrench.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Slightly increased felt recoil compared to less constrictive chokes.
- Extremely tight patterns are not suitable for very close range shooting.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650?
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650 is perfect for seasoned turkey hunters who demand maximum range and pattern density from their shotguns. It’s also an excellent choice for hunters who frequently encounter wary birds that hang up at longer distances. Those who are hunting in more open terrains will also benefit from this choke tube.
This product might not be ideal for beginners or those who primarily hunt in dense cover where shots are typically taken at close range. New turkey hunters will want to focus on the fundamentals before investing in specialized equipment. Those who hunt in dense cover where the average shot distances are short will want to skip this choke.
A must-have accessory for this choke is a high-quality choke tube wrench. It is also important to experiment with different brands and loads of ammunition to find the best performing combination for your shotgun.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650 is a top-performing turkey choke that delivers on its promise of extreme patterns at extended ranges. While the increased recoil might be a minor drawback for some, the enhanced accuracy and lethal pattern density more than make up for it. The JEBS patented multi-stage bore design is what sets it apart from other chokes on the market.
At a price of $89.99, the EAR Head Hunter offers excellent value for serious turkey hunters. The price is justified considering the quality of construction and the significant improvement in performance it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650 to any turkey hunter looking to maximize their effective range and increase their chances of success. If you are serious about turkey hunting, you will benefit greatly from this choke.
Take your turkey hunting to the next level. Invest in the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .650 and experience the difference for yourself!