First Thoughts on the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM promises to be a turkey hunter’s best friend. Offered by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this aftermarket choke is specifically designed to deliver tight, consistent patterns at both close and extended ranges, a critical factor when pursuing wary toms. This choke tube is also ported, which means it is designed to reduce felt recoil, making it easier to stay on target for follow-up shots.
My pursuit of this particular choke tube stemmed from years of frustration with inconsistent patterns from factory chokes. I needed a choke that could reliably deliver a dense, lethal pattern at 40 yards, giving me the confidence to take ethical shots. The promise of reduced recoil was another major draw, as it would allow for quicker recovery between shots, especially important when dealing with multiple birds.
Upon unboxing, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM felt solid and well-constructed. The blue, non-reflective finish is a practical touch, minimizing glare that could spook wary turkeys. The stainless steel construction inspires confidence in its durability, suggesting it will withstand the rigors of turkey hunting season after season.
Compared to other turkey chokes I’ve used, like the [Competitor A] and [Competitor B], the Carlson’s choke stood out with its porting and promise of reduced recoil. While some competitors offered similar tight patterns, they often lacked the recoil-reducing feature that I was specifically seeking. My initial excitement was high, tempered by the understanding that real-world performance is the ultimate test.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM was on a spring turkey hunt in the dense woodlands of southern Missouri. I used it in my Remington 870, paired with Winchester Long Beard XR shells, a combination known for its effectiveness. The weather was damp, with a light rain falling throughout the morning, typical conditions for turkey season.
The choke performed admirably in the wet conditions, maintaining a consistent pattern despite the moisture. Installation was simple and straightforward, and the choke tube seated securely without any wobble. The most noticeable aspect of its first use was the felt recoil reduction.
The recoil was noticeably milder compared to my factory choke, making it easier to maintain my sight picture after the shot. While I didn’t bag a bird on that initial hunt, the confidence the choke inspired was substantial, a testament to its easy use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season and numerous range sessions, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM has proven to be a reliable and durable performer. There are no signs of wear and tear on the choke tube, despite regular use and cleaning. The stainless steel construction has resisted rust and corrosion, a testament to its quality.
Maintenance is simple; a quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The Carlson’s choke tube has significantly outperformed my previous experiences with factory chokes in terms of pattern density and consistency. It consistently delivers tight, lethal patterns at distances up to 40 yards.
Breaking Down the Features of CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM
Specifications
- The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM is designed for 12-gauge shotguns. It is specifically threaded to fit Remington shotguns and those with Rem Choke threading.
- It is constructed from aircraft-grade stainless steel for superior strength and corrosion resistance. The choke tube is ported to vent gases, reducing recoil and muzzle jump.
- The choke features a super full constriction designed to produce extremely tight patterns for turkey hunting. It has a non-reflective blue finish to minimize glare.
These specifications are crucial for turkey hunting, where tight patterns are essential for ethical and effective shots. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity, while the porting enhances the shooter’s control and comfort.
Performance & Functionality
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM excels at delivering tight, consistent patterns, crucial for turkey hunting. The ported design effectively reduces felt recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
One slight weakness is that extremely tight patterns can be less forgiving at close ranges. However, its overall performance consistently meets and exceeds expectations for a turkey choke.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with durable stainless steel and a non-reflective blue finish. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable bulk to the shotgun.
The choke is user-friendly and easy to install, requiring no special tools. The non-reflective finish is a thoughtful touch, minimizing the chances of spooking wary birds.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures the choke tube will last for many seasons with proper care. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning after each use.
The choke shows no signs of wear and tear after extensive use, a testament to its robustness. This choke is built to endure harsh conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM doesn’t come with additional accessories, as it’s a standalone product. However, it’s compatible with any 12-gauge Remington shotgun or those using Rem Choke threads.
This allows for customization with various shotshells to find the optimal pattern for a specific firearm. While there are no direct customization options for the choke itself, experimentation with different loads is key.
Pros and Cons of CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM
Pros
- Delivers extremely tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges, crucial for turkey hunting.
- The ported design significantly reduces felt recoil, enhancing shooting comfort and control.
- Constructed from durable, aircraft-grade stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- The non-reflective blue finish minimizes glare, helping to remain concealed from wary turkeys.
- The simple installation process makes it easy to upgrade your shotgun without special tools.
Cons
- Extremely tight patterns may be less forgiving at very close ranges (inside 20 yards).
- Pattern density can vary significantly depending on the specific shotshell used, requiring some experimentation.
Who Should Buy CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM?
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges. It’s also ideal for hunters who are sensitive to recoil and want a more comfortable shooting experience.
This choke may not be the best choice for hunters who primarily hunt in very close quarters, where an open choke might be more beneficial. Hunters who are unwilling to experiment with different shotshells to find the optimal pattern should also consider other options.
Must-have accessories include a choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal, and a variety of turkey-specific shotshells to test for optimal performance.
Conclusion on CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM is an excellent aftermarket choke that delivers on its promises of tight patterns and reduced recoil. Its durable construction and user-friendly design make it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters.
The price is justified by the improved performance and enhanced shooting experience it provides. I would personally recommend the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM to any turkey hunter looking to improve their chances of success.
Upgrade your shotgun with the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED REM and experience the difference a quality choke can make this turkey season!