First Thoughts on the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 promises tighter patterns and increased range for turkey hunting, and as a seasoned outdoorsman, that’s a claim I’m always eager to put to the test. With so many aftermarket choke tubes flooding the market, it takes a lot to stand out, but the EAR name and the promise of JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design piqued my interest. This isn’t just another tube; it’s a tool built for a specific purpose.
I’ve been chasing gobblers for over a decade, and like many hunters, I’ve always been searching for that edge – that piece of gear that can reliably extend my effective range without sacrificing pattern density. My old factory choke was getting the job done, but I felt there was room for improvement, especially beyond 35 yards. The consistent results I was seeing from fellow hunters using similar aftermarket chokes convinced me to make the jump.
Upon unboxing, the choke has a solid, well-machined feel. The matte black finish is non-reflective, a must for avoiding spooking wary Toms. It appears to be built to withstand the rigors of the turkey woods.
I considered the Carlson’s Long Beard XR Choke Tube and the Primos Jelly Head Maximum, both popular options. However, I decided on the EAR Head Hunter due to the JEBS multi-stage design and the positive reviews specifically relating to pattern consistency at extended ranges. I was hoping for a product that could deliver denser, more consistent patterns at 40+ yards.
My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. I’ve seen plenty of products promise the world and fail to deliver. I was eager to get to the range and see if the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my local shooting range, under partly cloudy skies with a light breeze. I paired the EAR Head Hunter with my trusty Remington 870 and a variety of 12-gauge turkey loads, from standard 2 ¾-inch shells to the heavier 3-inch magnums. The choke threaded smoothly into the barrel with no issues.
The difference was immediately noticeable. Patterns at 30 yards were significantly tighter than with my factory choke. Pellets were consistently grouped within a 12-inch circle. There was a noticeable reduction in flyers and a much more even distribution of shot across the target.
Even with the heavier loads, recoil felt manageable. The matte finish held up well. There were no signs of excessive residue build-up after the first session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. I’ve taken it on multiple turkey hunts in various conditions, from drizzly mornings to dry, dusty afternoons.
The choke has held up exceptionally well to the elements. There are no signs of rust or corrosion. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a bore brush and solvent after each use.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the EAR Head Hunter provides a clear advantage in terms of pattern density and effective range. I’ve harvested birds at distances I wouldn’t have attempted with my old setup. This gives me confidence in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Specifications
Gauge: 12 Gauge. This means it’s specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns, the most common gauge for turkey hunting due to its power and readily available ammunition.
Choke Size: Turkey. This designation signifies that the choke is optimized for the tight patterns required for turkey hunting at longer ranges.
Model: Rem Choke. It’s designed to fit Remington shotguns utilizing the Rem Choke system, ensuring compatibility.
Finish: Matte Black. A non-reflective finish is critical for avoiding spooking wary turkeys by minimizing glare.
Construction: Designed with JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore designs. This feature is engineered to improve shot and wad cup separation, leading to denser and more precise patterns.
These specifications translate to improved downrange performance, pattern consistency, and enhanced hunting success. The Rem Choke compatibility ensures easy installation and removal without requiring specialized tools.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 excels in delivering exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges. This is paramount for turkey hunting. It allows for ethical shots at greater distances.
The key strength lies in its ability to maintain a dense, even pattern out to 40+ yards. The only weakness I’ve observed is that with certain extra-heavy magnum loads, there can be a slight increase in felt recoil, but this is typical of any tight-patterning turkey choke. Overall, the EAR Head Hunter exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The EAR Head Hunter sports a simple, functional design. The matte black finish is durable and non-reflective. It’s constructed from high-quality steel.
The choke tube threads smoothly into the barrel and sits flush with the muzzle. No special tools are required for installation or removal. It is a user-friendly product.
Durability & Maintenance
The EAR Head Hunter is built to last. After months of use in various weather conditions, it shows no signs of wear or corrosion. Cleaning is quick and easy.
Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. This ensures continued performance and longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It is a standalone product designed to improve the performance of your existing shotgun.
While it doesn’t offer direct customization, the choice of ammunition significantly impacts its performance. Experimenting with different loads is essential for finding the optimal combination for your shotgun and hunting conditions. It is compatible with a wide variety of 12-gauge turkey loads from various manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges, increasing effective hunting distance.
- Durable construction with a matte black finish, ensuring longevity and minimizing glare.
- Easy to install and remove with no special tools required, making it user-friendly.
- Noticeably improves pattern density compared to factory chokes, leading to more ethical and successful hunts.
- The JEBS multi-stage interior bore design contributes to superior shot and wad cup separation, maximizing pattern precision.
Cons
- Can slightly increase felt recoil with heavier magnum loads, which might be uncomfortable for some shooters.
- Requires experimentation with different ammunition to find the optimal load for specific shotgun and hunting conditions.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660?
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who want to extend their effective range and improve pattern density. It is ideal for those who hunt in areas where longer shots are common. It’s also well-suited for hunters who want to upgrade from their factory choke and achieve more consistent results.
Hunters who primarily hunt at very close ranges (inside 20 yards) or are highly sensitive to recoil may not find this choke tube necessary. Similarly, those who are unwilling to experiment with different ammunition to find the optimal load may not fully appreciate its benefits.
A quality turkey-specific optic (red dot or scope) is a must-have accessory to fully realize the potential of this choke. Also, a reliable sling for your shotgun is recommended for comfortable carry during long hunts.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is a well-designed and effective choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and increased range. Its durable construction, user-friendly design, and noticeable performance improvements make it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters. The JEBS multi-stage design truly shines.
At $89.99, the price is justified by the tangible improvements in pattern density and effective range it provides. This choke can give hunters a significant edge in the field.
I would definitely recommend the EAR Head Hunter to any turkey hunter looking to maximize their shotgun’s performance. If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and want to confidently take longer shots, this choke tube is a game-changer. Upgrade your setup today and experience the difference!