First Thoughts on the CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA
Duck season. For many of us, it’s not just a pastime; it’s an obsession etched into our very DNA. And to truly maximize the potential of every hunt, your shotgun needs to be dialed in. That’s why the CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA caught my attention – a promise of tighter patterns and greater consistency, specifically designed for the challenging world of waterfowl hunting with the Mossberg 835 and 935 platforms.
My quest for consistent patterns at varying distances led me to explore choke tube options. I wanted something that would handle steel shot reliably and deliver the kind of performance that instills confidence when that flock finally commits to the decoys. The CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA, manufactured by CARL, seemed like a solid contender on paper.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction of the chokes. They felt solid and well-machined. The stainless steel gave them a quality heft, and the knurled ends promised easy changes in the field – a crucial feature when the birds are moving fast.
I had been considering the Briley Spectrum chokes and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck, but the CARL set offered a compelling combination of features and price. I also appreciate getting multiple constrictions in one purchase. Ultimately, the advertised extended parallel section for consistent patterns swayed my decision.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality was certainly reassuring. The real test, however, would be on the water, evaluating the patterns at various distances with different loads.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA was a teal hunt on a flooded rice field. The conditions were typical for early season: humid and warm, with a light breeze. The chokes were easy to install in my Mossberg 935, even with slightly muddy hands.
The first few shots were taken with the Improved Cylinder choke over decoys at about 25 yards. The pattern was noticeably denser than with the factory choke. The teal folded cleanly. Later, I switched to the Modified choke for some passing shots at around 40 yards. Again, the CARL choke performed admirably.
There were no immediate issues. The chokes threaded in smoothly and remained secure throughout the morning. The easy-to-read markings on each choke made quick adjustments simple.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of hunting ducks and geese in various conditions, the CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA has proven to be reliable. From freezing mornings in the timber to windy days on the open water, they have consistently delivered. There have been zero issues with threading, loosening, or any degradation in performance.
The chokes show minimal signs of wear, despite being subjected to muddy conditions and repeated use with steel shot. Cleaning has been straightforward. A quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent keeps them in perfect working order.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the CARL set offers a significant improvement in pattern density and consistency. Distant shots that were once marginal now result in clean kills, reducing crippling and improving ethical hunting practices.
Breaking Down the Features of CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA
Specifications
The CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA is specifically designed for Mossberg 835 and 935 12-gauge shotguns. They are manufactured from 1704 stainless steel, chosen for its strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand the pressures of steel shot. The extended design features a 25% longer parallel section compared to conventional chokes, which contributes to improved pattern consistency.
Each choke tube is knurled at the end for easy, tool-free installation and removal. The constriction and size are laser-marked on both the end and the body for quick identification. The price for the set is $106.99. This is a good value for a set of chokes.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the choke’s ability to deliver consistent, dense patterns at various ranges. The stainless steel ensures durability, while the extended parallel section helps to reduce pellet deformation and maintain pattern integrity.
Performance & Functionality
The CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA performs its job exceptionally well. The patterns are consistently tighter and denser than those produced by factory chokes. This translates to increased effective range and a higher probability of clean kills.
The strengths lie in the consistent patterns and the ease of use. The chokes are simple to install and change in the field. One area for potential improvement would be to include a choke tube case or pouch for convenient storage and organization.
Overall, the CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA exceeds my expectations. They have noticeably improved my shotgun’s performance and my confidence in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The stainless steel construction feels robust and durable. The weight is appropriate, adding a negligible amount to the overall shotgun weight.
The knurled ends provide a secure grip for easy installation and removal, even with gloved or wet hands. There is no learning curve. The chokes function as expected and are easy to understand.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on a full season of use, I expect the CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA to last for many years. The stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion, and the overall construction is solid.
Maintenance is simple: clean after each use with a bore brush and solvent to remove any residue or fouling. Lightly oil the threads before re-installing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA does not include any accessories beyond the chokes themselves. There are no customization options directly related to the chokes, but they are compatible with any Mossberg 835/935 shotgun.
The set itself provides a degree of customization by offering multiple constriction options. This allows you to tailor your shotgun’s pattern to specific hunting situations and distances.
Pros and Cons of CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA
Pros
- Tighter and denser patterns compared to factory chokes.
- Durable 1704 stainless steel construction.
- Knurled ends for easy, tool-free installation and removal.
- Laser-marked constrictions for quick identification.
- Noticeably improves effective range and reduces crippling.
Cons
- Does not include a choke tube case or pouch.
- Pattern performance is still dependent on specific load and gun combination.
Who Should Buy CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA?
Perfect for: Waterfowl hunters who own a Mossberg 835 or 935 12-gauge shotgun and are looking to improve their pattern density and consistency. Also suitable for hunters who shoot steel shot frequently.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who are satisfied with their factory chokes or who own a different model of shotgun.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A choke tube case or pouch for convenient storage and organization. Consider experimenting with different loads to find the optimal combination for your shotgun and choke constriction.
Conclusion on CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA
The CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA is a worthwhile investment for any serious waterfowl hunter using a Mossberg 835 or 935 shotgun. The improved pattern density and consistent performance justify the price of $106.99. This set delivers tangible results in the field.
I would personally recommend this choke set to anyone looking to upgrade their shotgun’s performance for waterfowl hunting. It provides a noticeable advantage over factory chokes and enhances the overall hunting experience.
If you’re ready to take your waterfowl hunting to the next level, the CARL WATERFOWL CHOKE SET MOSS 835/935 12GA is an excellent choice. Invest in your success and experience the difference that consistent patterns can make.