First Thoughts on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel promises tighter patterns and longer-range performance specifically tailored for bismuth loads in 20-gauge shotguns. Carlson’s Choke Tubes has a reputation for quality aftermarket chokes, and this model aims to maximize the effectiveness of non-toxic shot, something increasingly important as lead restrictions spread. I’m excited to see how it lives up to the “Bone Buster” moniker.
My aging Brittany Spaniel, Maggie, deserves the best chance at retrieving birds, and I’ve become frustrated with the inconsistent patterns I get from my factory chokes when using bismuth. I needed a choke specifically designed to handle bismuth’s unique characteristics and deliver consistent, ethical kills at extended ranges. This choke’s extended range and bismuth-specific design caught my eye.
The choke arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The stainless steel construction is immediately apparent; it feels solid and well-machined. My initial impression is that it’s a serious piece of gear, clearly built to withstand the rigors of hunting.
I was considering a Briley choke and a Patternmaster choke, both known for their quality. Ultimately, I chose the Carlson’s because it specifically advertises optimal performance with bismuth, and the price point was more attractive. I appreciated the focused design for my specific ammunition choice.
My initial impression is cautiously optimistic. It feels like a quality product, but the proof will be in the patterns. The promise of consistent, extended-range performance with bismuth loads has me genuinely excited to get it out in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel at my local sporting clays range. I wanted to get a baseline before taking it into the field. The weather was cool and overcast, typical for an early fall morning, and I used Federal Bismuth 20 gauge, 3-inch, #4 shot.
The Carlson’s choke installed easily and tightened securely with my choke tube wrench. I immediately noticed a difference in the breaks on the clays; they seemed more consistent and definitive, especially on the longer shots. There were no issues or malfunctions during the initial shooting session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of upland bird hunting, the Carlson’s Bismuth Bone Buster has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve hunted pheasants in South Dakota and grouse in northern Wisconsin, exposing the choke to diverse weather conditions. The choke has shown no signs of wear or corrosion after cleaning.
The Carlson’s choke consistently delivered tighter patterns compared to my factory modified choke, resulting in cleaner kills at longer distances. Maintenance is simple: a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it clean. It has definitely outperformed my previous experiences with generic chokes and bismuth loads.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel is designed specifically for 20-gauge shotguns chambered for Optima HP chokes. It is an Extended Range choke, meaning it’s designed for longer-distance shots, usually beyond 40 yards. The choke is constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, a durable and corrosion-resistant material known for its strength and ability to withstand the pressures of shotgun loads.
The extended design allows for a more gradual constriction of the shot column, theoretically resulting in tighter patterns and less shot deformation. The specific internal geometry is optimized for bismuth shot, known to pattern differently than lead due to its lower density and hardness. This focus on bismuth makes the choke a specialized tool for hunters prioritizing non-toxic ammunition.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Bismuth Bone Buster performs admirably in its intended role: delivering consistent and tight patterns with bismuth shot at extended ranges. Accuracy is noticeably improved compared to my factory chokes, resulting in more ethical and effective kills on game birds. The only downside is that the “extended range” constriction can be too tight for close-range shots (under 25 yards), leading to overly dense patterns and potentially damaged birds.
The choke meets and, in most cases, exceeds expectations for a specialized bismuth choke. Its performance is particularly noticeable when compared to generic chokes that don’t account for bismuth’s unique properties. It definitely excels at its designed purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent; the 17-4 stainless steel feels robust and well-machined. The extended design makes it easy to identify the choke and provides a visual cue about its intended use. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable burden to the shotgun’s handling.
Installation is straightforward, requiring only a standard choke tube wrench. There’s virtually no learning curve; simply install the choke and pattern your shotgun to determine the optimal range for your specific load. The ease of use makes it a user-friendly addition to any 20-gauge shotgun.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. After weeks of use in varying weather conditions, the choke shows no signs of wear or degradation. Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use.
With proper care, the Carlson’s Bismuth Bone Buster should last for many seasons of hunting. The high-quality materials and robust design inspire confidence in its long-term reliability. It’s a workhorse, not a show pony.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the choke tube itself. There are no customization options available for the choke itself. The main form of “customization” lies in selecting the appropriate ammunition and patterning your shotgun to determine the optimal effective range for the choke and load combination.
The choke is compatible with any 20-gauge shotgun that accepts Optima HP choke tubes. Aftermarket choke tube wrenches are available for easier installation and removal. The simplicity of the design keeps the focus on core performance.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel
Pros
- Delivers consistently tight patterns with bismuth shot at extended ranges.
- 17-4 stainless steel construction for excellent durability and corrosion resistance.
- Noticeably improves accuracy and effective range compared to factory chokes when using bismuth.
- Easy to install and maintain, with no learning curve.
- Optimized specifically for bismuth, maximizing its potential in 20-gauge shotguns.
Cons
- Extended Range constriction may be too tight for close-range shots (under 25 yards).
- Specialized for bismuth; may not perform optimally with other shot types (steel, lead).
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel is perfect for upland bird hunters and waterfowl hunters who are required to use or choose to use bismuth shot in their 20-gauge shotguns. It is also ideal for shooters who are frustrated with inconsistent patterns from factory chokes and are looking to improve their accuracy and effective range with bismuth loads. This is an excellent choice for those seeking to make ethical, long-range shots.
This choke isn’t for everyone. Hunters who primarily use lead or steel shot might find a more versatile choke to be a better option. Those who predominantly hunt in thick cover at close ranges should also consider a more open choke constriction, as the “Extended Range” design may produce patterns that are too tight for close-quarters shooting.
A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal. Additionally, consider purchasing a variety of bismuth loads to pattern your shotgun and determine the optimal load for the choke’s constriction and your specific hunting conditions. Knowing how your gun and load patterns is key.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Bismuth Bone Buster Optima HP 20 Gauge Extended Range 17-4 Stainless Steel is a specialized tool that excels at its intended purpose: delivering consistent, tight patterns with bismuth shot at extended ranges. The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures excellent durability, and the easy installation and maintenance make it a user-friendly upgrade for any 20-gauge shotgun that uses Optima HP chokes.
The price of $53.51 is justified for the performance and quality it offers, especially for hunters who rely on bismuth ammunition. It’s an investment in ethical hunting and improved success in the field. If you’re committed to using bismuth in your 20-gauge and want to maximize its potential, the Carlson’s Bismuth Bone Buster is a worthwhile investment.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke to anyone looking to improve their bismuth patterns and extend their effective range. If you hunt with bismuth, you need this choke. Get yours today and see the difference it makes!