First Thoughts on the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Turkey hunting isn’t just a pastime; it’s an obsession for many, including myself. We chase those elusive gobblers with a passion that borders on the fanatical. So, when I heard about the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 choke tube, promising extreme patterns at extended ranges, I was instantly intrigued.
I’ve tried various choke tubes over the years, each with its own set of claims and promises. Often, they fall short, leaving me with inconsistent patterns and missed opportunities. My quest is to find a choke that delivers tight, consistent patterns at distances that give me an ethical and effective edge in the field. The EAR Head Hunter claimed to do just that, developed with JEBS patented technology.
Unboxing the choke, the first thing I noticed was its solid, well-machined construction. The matte black finish gave it a tactical, no-nonsense look. Compared to some of the flashier, ported chokes I’ve used, this one felt more purposeful. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic – it looked the part, but would it perform?
I’ve used Carlson’s and Primos chokes in the past, both reputable brands. While they offered decent patterns at standard ranges (30-40 yards), I was hoping for something that would consistently reach out to 50 yards or more. I chose the EAR Head Hunter because of the JEBS technology, which sounded promising for achieving denser, more consistent patterns at longer distances. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype, and if it really was the perfect choke to get an edge on those tricky toms.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 at my local shooting range. I wanted to get a feel for its performance under controlled conditions before taking it into the field. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, and I set up targets at 30, 40, and 50 yards.
Using a Retay Masai Mara 12-gauge, I cycled through several different brands and shot sizes of turkey loads, meticulously patterning each at each distance. I noticed immediately that the patterns were noticeably tighter than with the factory choke that came with my shotgun. At 40 yards, the pattern was consistently dense, with a good concentration of pellets in the vital area. My initial impressions were positive, and the EAR Head Hunter seemed to perform as advertised.
One minor issue was the initial tightness of the choke tube when installing it. I needed to use a choke tube wrench to get it properly seated. After the first use, this went away and became easier to tighten by hand.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the EAR Head Hunter has proven to be a reliable performer. It’s been through several hunts in varying conditions, from damp mornings to dusty afternoons. There are no signs of wear and tear on the finish.
The choke continues to deliver consistent patterns, and I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my effective range. Cleaning is also a breeze. A quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent keeps it in top condition. Compared to other aftermarket chokes I’ve used, the EAR Head Hunter outperforms them in pattern density and consistency at extended ranges. This has resulted in clean, ethical kills on several tough gobblers this season.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Specifications
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is specifically designed for Retay 12-gauge shotguns. It features a .660 constriction. The choke is constructed from high-quality steel with a matte black finish.
This constriction is designed to deliver extremely tight patterns with turkey loads at extended ranges. The matte black finish helps to minimize glare. The JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design promotes better “shot & wad cup” separation.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter excels at its primary function: delivering tight, consistent patterns for turkey hunting. It provides exceptional range and pattern density. It allows for ethical shots at distances beyond what most factory chokes are capable of.
The choke’s major strength is its ability to maintain pattern density at longer ranges. The choke is easy to install and remove (after the initial tightness). There are no significant weaknesses. I have observed a slight increase in felt recoil, but it is easily manageable.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the EAR Head Hunter is excellent. The steel construction feels robust and durable. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and practical. The choke is easy to grip and manipulate, even with gloved hands.
There’s no learning curve involved. Simply screw it in, pattern your shotgun, and you’re ready to hunt. It’s designed for ease of use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of materials and construction, the EAR Head Hunter should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The coating resists rust and corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There aren’t any customization options available beyond selecting the correct gauge and constriction for your shotgun. It is not designed to be used with ported barrels, so bear that in mind. The choke is compatible with most standard choke tube wrenches.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Pros
- Delivers extremely tight and dense patterns at extended ranges. It significantly increases your effective range for turkey hunting.
- JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design. This technology promotes superior shot and wad separation, resulting in more consistent patterns.
- Durable steel construction with a matte black finish. Ensures long-lasting performance and reduces glare in the field.
- Easy to install and maintain. Requires minimal effort to keep it in top condition.
- Noticeable increase in pattern density compared to factory chokes. This offers a significant advantage in the turkey woods.
Cons
- Initial tightness during installation might require a choke tube wrench. This issue resolves itself after the first use.
- Slight increase in felt recoil may be noticed with some loads. This is a common characteristic of tight constriction chokes.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660?
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand maximum range and pattern density from their shotgun. It’s also great for those who hunt in areas where long shots are often necessary due to pressured birds or challenging terrain. This choke tube is a must-have for hunters who want to improve their chances of success.
If you primarily hunt turkeys at close range (inside 30 yards), or if you’re recoil-sensitive, this choke may not be the best choice. If you don’t own a Retay shotgun, obviously this product won’t work for you. It’s a dedicated choke for Retay 12-gauge shotguns.
A quality turkey load is essential to realize the full potential of this choke. Experiment with different brands and shot sizes to find the optimal combination for your shotgun.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is a high-performance choke tube that delivers on its promise of extreme patterns at extended ranges. The JEBS technology, combined with its durable construction and user-friendly design, makes it a standout product in the turkey hunting market. For $89.99, the price is justified given the performance increase it provides.
I wholeheartedly recommend the EAR Head Hunter to any serious turkey hunter looking to gain an edge in the field. It’s an investment in your success, and it will help you put more birds on the ground. If you are looking for that extra edge, get the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660. You won’t be disappointed.