CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM Review

First Thoughts on the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM

The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM promises a simple solution: a cylinder choke replacement for Remington shotguns. Carlson’s Choke Tubes aims to offer a reliable and affordable option for shooters looking to maintain a consistent, open pattern. This choke tube’s straightforward design and construction piqued my interest, especially given my experience with various shotgun chokes in hunting and tactical scenarios.

My need for this particular choke arose from a desire for a consistent, close-range pattern for home defense drills. While my primary shotgun, a Remington 870, came with a modified choke, I wanted a cylinder bore for specific training exercises. The promise of a dependable, readily available cylinder choke at an accessible price point led me to choose the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM over more expensive or specialized options.

Upon unboxing, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM appeared well-machined and robust. The 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction felt substantial, offering confidence in its durability. Compared to a similar Briley choke I’ve used in the past, the Carlson’s offering seemed less refined in its finish, but felt equally sturdy, and at half the price, the compromise seemed reasonable.

My initial excitement stemmed from the potential for improved close-quarters performance and the peace of mind that comes with a reliable, no-nonsense choke tube. It was a pleasant surprise to see a well-built product at this price point; it felt like a practical and worthwhile addition to my shotgun accessories.

Real-World Testing: Putting CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at an indoor shooting range, focusing on patterning the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM at 7 and 15 yards. The conditions were controlled, allowing for a clear assessment of the choke’s performance. The cylinder bore pattern opened up quickly, creating a wide spread ideal for close-range engagements.

In wet conditions, cleaning and maintaining the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM proved straightforward. The stainless steel construction resisted corrosion effectively. The ease of installation and removal was also noteworthy; it required no special tools, just a simple choke wrench.

After the first use, there were no significant issues or surprises. The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM performed as expected, delivering a consistent cylinder bore pattern, confirming my expectations for its intended purpose.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including range trips and simulated home defense drills, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM continues to perform reliably. There are no signs of significant wear or corrosion on the stainless steel surface. The choke tube remains easy to install and remove, even after repeated use.

The choke tube has shown no signs of loosening during firing, maintaining a secure fit within the barrel. Regular cleaning with a standard shotgun cleaning kit keeps it in optimal condition. Comparing it to my experiences with other chokes, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM offers comparable performance at a significantly lower cost.

Overall, the extended use has further solidified my positive impression of the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM, proving it to be a durable and dependable choice for its intended purpose.

Breaking Down the Features of CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM

Specifications

  • Caliber: 12 Gauge. This choke tube is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns, making it compatible with a wide range of popular models.

  • Choke Type: Cylinder. The cylinder choke provides the most open pattern, ideal for close-range shooting scenarios.

  • Material: 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel. The use of 17-4 stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability, ensuring a long service life.

  • Compatibility: Remington Shotguns. The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM is designed as a direct replacement choke tube for Remington shotguns using the Rem Choke system.

  • Restrictions: Steel Shot. Steel shot larger than #BB should not be used in any choke tighter than full, according to the Carlson’s product description, this tube follows the same safety guidelines. This ensures safe usage and prevents damage to the choke or shotgun barrel.

These specifications are vital because they ensure the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM functions as intended – delivering a consistent, open pattern without compromising the safety or integrity of the shotgun. The quality of materials and the specific design for Remington shotguns are crucial for reliable performance.

Performance & Functionality

The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM excels at delivering a consistent cylinder bore pattern. It effectively opens the shot spread quickly, which is desirable for close-range applications like home defense or close-quarters hunting. Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability, providing a consistent pattern without any complications.

However, this choke tube is not designed for long-range shooting, as the open pattern will result in a less dense shot grouping at longer distances. The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM meets expectations for its intended purpose but is not a versatile option for all shooting scenarios.

Design & Ergonomics

The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM is constructed from durable 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, offering a robust and corrosion-resistant design. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable heft to the shotgun. The simple, unadorned design ensures a secure fit and ease of use.

There’s virtually no learning curve associated with this product; it threads easily into compatible Remington shotguns. It is as simple to use as any other standard choke tube.

Durability & Maintenance

The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM is built to last, thanks to its high-quality stainless steel construction. Regular cleaning and lubrication, typical for shotgun maintenance, are sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. The expected lifespan is extensive, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent shooters.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM itself doesn’t come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with standard choke tube wrenches designed for Remington shotguns. There are no direct customization options for the choke tube itself, but its compatibility with various Remington shotguns allows for broader customization of the firearm itself.

Pros and Cons of CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM

Pros

  • Affordable Price: The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM provides excellent value for the money, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
  • Durable Construction: The 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion.
  • Consistent Cylinder Bore Pattern: The choke delivers a reliable and predictable open pattern, ideal for close-range shooting.
  • Easy Installation and Removal: The choke tube installs and removes easily with a standard choke wrench, requiring no specialized tools.
  • Broad Compatibility: Designed as a direct replacement for Remington shotguns using the Rem Choke system.

Cons

  • Limited Range: The cylinder bore pattern is not suitable for long-range shooting applications.
  • Basic Finish: The finish lacks the refinement of higher-end choke tubes, though this doesn’t impact performance.


Who Should Buy CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM?

The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM is perfect for:

  • Home defense enthusiasts seeking a wide, close-range pattern.
  • Hunters who need an open choke for close-quarters game like rabbits or grouse.
  • Tactical shooters looking for a consistent pattern for training exercises.

Those who primarily shoot at long ranges or require tighter patterns should skip this product. Consider modified or full chokes instead.

A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal.

Conclusion on CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM

The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM delivers exactly what it promises: a dependable cylinder choke at an unbeatable price. It’s a no-frills solution that performs its intended function admirably. The value proposition is strong, making it a worthwhile investment for shooters needing a cylinder bore option.

I would definitely recommend the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable cylinder choke for their Remington shotgun. It’s a practical and effective addition to any shotgun setup. Upgrade your Remington with a CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA CYL REM today!


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