First Thoughts on the HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE
The HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE promises enhanced performance when using high-density loads in your shotgun. Marketed by HSP, this choke tube aims to deliver super full choke patterns for Winchester, Mossberg, and Browning Invector shotguns, among others. At a price of $13.99, it piqued my interest as a potential cost-effective upgrade for turkey and waterfowl hunting with specialized loads.
As an experienced shotgunner, I’ve always sought incremental improvements in pattern density, particularly when hunting wary birds at longer ranges. I was looking for a choke tube that could reliably tighten my patterns when using Hevi-Shot, bismuth, or tungsten loads without breaking the bank. The HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE seemed to fit the bill.
Upon receiving the choke, my initial impression was positive considering the price point. The blued finish appeared even, and the knurling seemed adequate for hand tightening and removal. Compared to some other aftermarket choke tubes I’ve used, like those from Carlson’s or Patternmaster, the HSP UNDERTAKER appeared less aggressively ported, which could potentially translate to less recoil. I ultimately chose this choke because of its advertised compatibility with high-density loads and its extremely attractive price. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that the HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE would deliver improved patterns without sacrificing ease of use or durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE was at my local shooting range, patterning various 12-gauge loads at 40 yards. I tested it with a Mossberg 500, using Hevi-Shot turkey loads, bismuth waterfowl loads, and some standard lead target loads for comparison. The weather was clear and cool, around 50 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze.
Installation was straightforward, thanks to the knurled extension. The high-density loads produced noticeably tighter patterns compared to the factory full choke that I normally use. The lead target loads, however, patterned extremely tightly, almost to the point of being unusable for closer-range targets. There were no immediate issues with the choke itself after the first few rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a couple of turkey hunting trips, the HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE continues to perform as expected. I’ve put approximately 100 rounds through it, mostly with high-density loads. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the choke tube itself; the blued finish is holding up well.
Maintenance is simple: I clean it after each shooting session with a standard choke tube brush and solvent. Compared to my experience with ported choke tubes that require more meticulous cleaning, the HSP UNDERTAKER is very easy to maintain. While it doesn’t dramatically outperform high-end chokes, the HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE has certainly proven to be a reliable and cost-effective option for tightening patterns with specialized loads.
Breaking Down the Features of HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE
Specifications
Gauge: 12 Gauge. This choke tube is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns.
Compatibility: Winchester, Mossberg, Maverick 88, Browning Invector, Weatherby, Ithaca, H & R, Charles Daly O/U, Thompson Center. This versatility is one of its biggest selling points, fitting many common shotgun models.
Material: 41L42 chrome-moly, aircraft quality alloy. This material offers a good balance of strength and machinability, ensuring it can handle the stress of high-density loads.
Tube Length: 3 inches. The extended length helps to gradually constrict the shot column, theoretically improving pattern density.
Finish: Blued. The blued finish provides a degree of corrosion resistance and a traditional appearance.
These specifications are important because they dictate the choke’s suitability for specific shotguns and ammunition. The chrome-moly alloy construction is crucial for handling the dense, hard shot used in Hevi-Shot and similar loads, preventing damage to the choke tube itself.
Performance & Functionality
The HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE performs its primary function – tightening patterns – quite effectively, especially with high-density loads. It delivers consistently tighter groups at 40 yards compared to a factory full choke. However, its extreme constriction can lead to “blown” patterns with standard lead shot, making it less versatile for different shooting scenarios.
Its strength lies in its ability to optimize patterns for specific types of ammunition used for turkey and waterfowl hunting. The weakness is its limited applicability to general shooting activities. It meets my expectations for a specialized choke tube designed for high-density loads, but it’s not a universal solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate for the price. The materials used seem durable, and the knurled extension allows for easy installation and removal without tools. It’s reasonably lightweight and doesn’t significantly alter the balance of the shotgun.
The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. There’s virtually no learning curve, making it very user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE should last for several seasons of hunting and range use with proper care. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent corrosion and buildup of shot residue. The durable construction makes it easy to maintain and less prone to damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE doesn’t come with any additional accessories. The primary “customization” aspect is its interchangeability with other choke tubes, allowing you to fine-tune your shotgun’s performance based on the specific hunting situation. It is compatible with any choke tube wrench designed for the specific shotgun model it’s installed in.
Pros and Cons of HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE
Pros
- Inexpensive. The low price point makes it accessible to almost any shooter.
- Improved patterns with high-density loads. Tightens patterns significantly, increasing effective range.
- Easy installation and removal. The knurled extension allows for quick changes without tools.
- Wide compatibility. Fits a variety of popular shotgun models, increasing its appeal.
- Durable construction. Built with chrome-moly alloy to withstand the rigors of high-density loads.
Cons
- Limited versatility. Not ideal for standard lead shot due to excessively tight patterns.
- Basic finish. The blued finish is functional but not particularly aesthetically pleasing.
Who Should Buy HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE?
Perfect for: Hunters who primarily use high-density loads (Hevi-Shot, bismuth, tungsten) for turkey or waterfowl and are seeking a cost-effective way to improve pattern density. This is also a great option for beginner shotgunners looking to experiment with choke tubes without a significant investment.
Who should skip this product? Those who primarily shoot standard lead target loads or require a more versatile choke tube for various shooting disciplines. If you need one choke for everything, this isn’t it.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good choke tube wrench is recommended for tightening and loosening the choke tube, especially after extended use.
Conclusion on HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE
The HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE is a specialized choke tube that delivers on its promise of tightening patterns with high-density loads. The value proposition is excellent: for $13.99, you get a functional and durable choke tube that can significantly improve your effective range when hunting turkey or waterfowl with specialized ammunition.
I would personally recommend it to hunters on a budget or those who want to experiment with different choke constrictions without breaking the bank. If you primarily shoot high-density loads and need tighter patterns, the HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE is a worthwhile addition to your shotgun. It’s an inexpensive upgrade that can potentially translate to more successful hunts. Upgrade your shotgun today with the HSP UNDERTAKER HS 12GA BRO MOSS/WIN CHOKE TUBE!