First Thoughts on the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR promises to be a game-changer for shotgun enthusiasts, especially waterfowl hunters. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this choke boasts Triple Shot Technology (TST) and a ported design, aiming to deliver denser patterns and reduced recoil. This choke promises to turn my Remington into a waterfowl-devastating machine.
My aging factory choke tubes were simply not cutting it anymore. I was looking for something that could consistently deliver tight patterns at longer ranges, especially when using steel shot. I needed a choke that could handle the rigors of duck and goose hunting, season after season.
Upon unboxing, the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR feels solid and well-made. The stainless steel construction inspires confidence, and the extended design looks aggressive and functional. The ports are cleanly machined, and the overall finish is excellent.
I considered other extended choke tubes from brands like Patternmaster and Briley. Ultimately, the combination of Carlson’s reputation, the TST technology, and the attractive price point of $48.99 swayed my decision. I was genuinely excited to see if this choke could live up to the hype.
Initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive; I was eager to get this choke on my Remington and head to the range. I felt a surge of optimism that this choke would finally provide the performance I’d been seeking for years.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR was at my local shooting range, patterning it with various steel shot loads. The range was outdoors, with a slight crosswind, providing a realistic testing environment. The Cremator was tested with a Remington 870.
The results were immediately noticeable compared to my factory choke. Patterns were significantly tighter and more consistent, especially at 40 yards. The ported design noticeably reduced felt recoil, making follow-up shots quicker and more comfortable. There were no issues with installation or extraction, and the choke remained securely in place throughout the testing session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full waterfowl season using the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR, I can confidently say it has exceeded my expectations. The choke has consistently delivered tight, lethal patterns on ducks and geese. The durable stainless steel construction has shown no signs of wear or corrosion despite exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Maintenance is simple; a quick cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent after each hunt keeps it in top condition. This choke has vastly outperformed my previous experiences with factory chokes and other aftermarket options. The reliability and consistent performance have made it an indispensable part of my hunting setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR
Specifications
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR is designed for Remington shotguns using the standard Rem Choke thread pattern. It is constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel for exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. The choke features an extended design that adds approximately one inch to the barrel length.
- Triple Shot Technology (TST): TST consists of three graduated rings in the taper section, promoting a gradual constriction for reduced pellet deformation and denser patterns. This is critical for maximizing the effective range and lethality of steel shot.
- Ported Design: The ports help reduce recoil and muzzle jump, allowing for faster follow-up shots. This is a significant advantage in fast-paced waterfowl hunting scenarios.
- Wrench-less Installation: The extended design allows for easy installation and removal without the need for a choke wrench. This is extremely convenient in the field, especially in cold weather.
- Constriction Options: Offered in close, mid, and long-range constrictions to suit various hunting situations. This versatility allows hunters to tailor their shotgun’s performance to specific environments and target distances.
- Steel Shot Compatibility: Safe to use with all sizes and speeds of steel shot. This eliminates concerns about choke damage and ensures reliable performance with modern waterfowl loads.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR excels in delivering consistent, tight patterns at extended ranges. The TST technology demonstrably reduces pellet deformation, resulting in fewer flyers and increased pattern density. The ported design effectively mitigates recoil, improving shooter comfort and control.
The choke’s strengths lie in its reliable performance, durable construction, and ease of use. A minor potential improvement could be offering even tighter constrictions for extreme long-range applications. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a choke in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR boasts a rugged, functional design. The stainless steel construction provides excellent corrosion resistance and a premium feel. The extended design allows for easy gripping and wrench-less installation.
The choke is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for installation or maintenance. The simple design and intuitive features contribute to a positive user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures that the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR is built to last. The choke is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, even under harsh hunting conditions. Proper maintenance involves regular cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent, which is a straightforward process.
With proper care, this choke should provide years of reliable service. The lifetime warranty from Carlson’s further reinforces the product’s durability and the manufacturer’s confidence in its quality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR does not come with any specific accessories beyond the choke tube itself. However, it is compatible with standard choke tube wrenches should you prefer to use one. The primary customization option is selecting the appropriate constriction (close, mid, or long range) for your specific hunting needs.
The choke integrates seamlessly with any Remington shotgun that accepts Rem Choke tubes. It also works with a wide variety of aftermarket choke tube cases and storage solutions.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR
Pros
- Significantly tighter and more consistent patterns compared to factory chokes. This translates to increased effective range and lethality.
- Noticeably reduced recoil and muzzle jump due to the ported design. This allows for faster follow-up shots and improved shooter comfort.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance. This provides peace of mind knowing the choke can withstand harsh conditions.
- Wrench-less installation and removal for easy use in the field. This is a convenient feature, especially when dealing with cold or wet hands.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value for the performance gained. This makes it an accessible upgrade for any waterfowl hunter.
Cons
- Ported design can result in slightly increased muzzle noise. This might be a concern for hunters who prioritize stealth.
- Constriction options could be expanded to include even tighter, extra-full options for extreme long-range shooting. This would further enhance the versatility of the Cremator series.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR?
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR is perfect for waterfowl hunters seeking to improve the performance of their Remington shotguns. This choke benefits hunters who want tighter patterns, reduced recoil, and enhanced confidence in their shooting ability. It’s also a great choice for sporting clays shooters looking for a versatile and reliable choke tube.
Hunters primarily focused on close-range shooting (inside of 20 yards) might not fully appreciate the benefits of this choke. Individuals who are highly sensitive to muzzle noise might also want to consider a non-ported option. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality choke tube case to protect the Cremator when not in use.
Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR is an outstanding value proposition for shotgun owners looking to upgrade their performance. For $48.99, it delivers significant improvements in pattern density, recoil reduction, and overall shooting experience. I personally recommend this choke to any waterfowl hunter seeking a reliable and effective upgrade for their Remington shotgun.
The Cremator has transformed my Remington 870 into a waterfowl-slaying machine. Don’t settle for mediocre patterns; upgrade to the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Remington MR and experience the difference for yourself!