First Thoughts on the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY promises a denser, more effective pattern for turkey hunting with compatible Beretta and Benelli shotguns. Carlson’s Choke Tubes are renowned for their quality and performance, so I was eager to see if this choke tube lived up to the brand’s reputation. This particular model boasts construction from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, an extended design, and compatibility with buffered turkey loads; features which immediately piqued my interest.
My pursuit of the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY stemmed from a consistent issue I faced during turkey season: inconsistent patterns at longer ranges with my trusty Benelli. I needed a choke that could reliably deliver tight, lethal patterns past 30 yards, and the Carlson’s reputation for tight patterns and compatibility with buffered loads seemed like the answer. The extended design also offered the potential for easier choke changes in the field.
Upon unboxing, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY felt solid and well-made. The matte blue finish looked durable and understated, and the threads were clean and precise. Compared to a standard flush-mounted choke, the extended design was immediately noticeable.
I considered the Briley X2 and the Patternmaster Code Black Turkey choke, both known for their excellent patterns, before settling on the Carlson’s. The deciding factors were the Carlson’s reputation for reliability, the competitive price point, and the specific compatibility with Beretta and Benelli shotguns. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism; I’ve used plenty of chokes that promised tight patterns but failed to deliver. However, the build quality and Carlson’s name gave me hope.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY was at my local gun range, patterning it with a variety of turkey loads. I tested it in relatively clear conditions, with minimal wind. The range offered distances from 10 to 50 yards.
Installation was simple and straightforward; the threads mated perfectly with my Benelli Super Black Eagle II. The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY produced noticeably tighter patterns at 40 yards compared to my previous choke. There was no need for any special tools.
The most significant surprise was how consistent the patterns were across different brands of buffered turkey loads. Previously, I had to experiment extensively to find a load that patterned well; the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY seemed less finicky.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season and numerous range sessions, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or corrosion despite regular use in various weather conditions. The choke remains easy to install and remove.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition. The Carlson’s choke has consistently outperformed my previous factory choke, providing tighter, more consistent patterns at extended ranges. I’ve used it in humid spring mornings and dry, dusty afternoons with equal success.
Compared to past experiences with other extended turkey chokes, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY shines in its reliability and consistent performance. It has become my go-to choke for turkey hunting.
Breaking Down the Features of CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY
Specifications
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY is designed for 12-gauge Beretta and Benelli shotguns. It is constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, offering excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. The choke extends approximately 1″ from the end of the barrel, facilitating easy installation and removal.
The matte blue finish helps reduce glare and protects the choke from the elements. Its primary purpose is to deliver extra-tight patterns with copper-plated and buffered lead turkey shotshells. This choke is specifically NOT designed for use with steel shot.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the choke’s performance and longevity. The 17-4 stainless steel ensures it can withstand the high pressures and recoil associated with turkey loads. The extended design makes swapping chokes in the field quick and easy, while the specific design for buffered lead loads ensures optimal pattern density.
Performance & Functionality
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY excels at its intended job: delivering tight, consistent patterns for turkey hunting. Accuracy at 40 yards is significantly improved compared to a standard modified choke. Reliability has been flawless; it consistently produces predictable patterns with various buffered lead loads.
The choke’s strength lies in its ability to transform a standard shotgun into a dedicated turkey-hunting tool. A minor weakness might be its specialization; it’s not ideal for other types of hunting where a wider pattern is desired. It definitely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent; the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY feels solid and well-machined. The materials used inspire confidence, and the matte blue finish is both attractive and functional. The one-inch extension makes it easy to grip for installation and removal, even with gloved hands.
There is no learning curve; it’s a simple screw-in choke tube. The knurled end is easy to grip.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its 17-4 stainless steel construction, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY is built to last. Regular cleaning and light lubrication will keep it in good condition for years. The lifetime warranty from Carlson’s provides additional peace of mind.
Cleaning is straightforward; simply remove the choke, clean the threads and bore with solvent, and apply a light coat of oil. The durable finish resists corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY itself doesn’t require additional accessories. Its compatibility with a wide range of buffered lead turkey loads makes it highly versatile. The primary customization option is selecting the appropriate load for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions.
There are no specific brand accessories required; it simply screws into any compatible Beretta or Benelli shotgun. The choke is compatible with most standard choke wrenches.
Pros and Cons of CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY
Pros
- Consistently delivers tight, dense patterns at extended ranges.
- Constructed from durable 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and remove thanks to its extended design.
- Compatible with a wide range of buffered lead turkey loads, offering versatility.
- Backed by Carlson’s lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind.
Cons
- Specifically designed for buffered lead turkey loads; not suitable for steel shot or other types of hunting.
- The tight pattern may be too restrictive for close-range shots, potentially leading to missed opportunities.
Who Should Buy CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY?
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY is perfect for serious turkey hunters using Beretta or Benelli 12-gauge shotguns who demand tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges. It’s ideal for those who hunt in areas where long shots are common and require a reliable choke to maximize their chances of success. This choke is also excellent for hunters who prefer to use buffered lead loads for their superior downrange performance.
Hunters who primarily hunt other game or prefer using steel shot should skip this product. Those who typically hunt turkeys at very close ranges (under 20 yards) might find the pattern too tight and should consider a more open choke. A choke wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY is a well-built, reliable choke that delivers on its promise of tight, consistent patterns for turkey hunting. The 17-4 stainless steel construction and extended design make it a durable and user-friendly addition to any Beretta or Benelli shotgun. For $35.99, the price is more than justified given the performance and durability.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA BER BEN EXTENDED TURKEY to any serious turkey hunter looking to improve their shotgun’s performance at longer ranges. If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and missed opportunities, this choke is a game-changer. Invest in a Carlson’s and experience the confidence of knowing your shotgun is performing at its best this turkey season.