Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR Review

First Thoughts on the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR

For over a decade, I’ve been immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, and shotguns have always held a special place in my heart, especially for waterfowl hunting. When I first heard about the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR, I was intrigued by its promise of improved patterns and reduced pellet deformation, all crucial factors when you’re trying to bring down a fast-moving duck at range. The claims of Triple Shot Technology (TST) and compatibility with steel shot certainly piqued my interest.

My aging Browning Silver Hunter needed a new choke after years of dedicated service in duck blinds from Maryland to Arkansas. The factory chokes were fine, but I wanted something that could give me an edge, especially with the ever-increasing distances I seemed to be shooting at pressured birds. The appeal of denser patterns and less pellet deformation was too good to ignore.

Upon receiving the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel and clean machining. The extended design and porting looked aggressive and purposeful, a definite step up from the flush-fitting factory chokes. Compared to the Briley Spectrum chokes I’ve used in the past, the Carlsons Cremator felt equally robust, but the TST design was a unique feature I was eager to test. Initial impressions were very positive; this choke seemed like a well-made, performance-oriented upgrade.

My initial reaction was excitement. I was eager to get out to the range and see if the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke was at a local sporting clays range, a far cry from a flooded timber, but perfect for patterning. I focused on the mid-range constriction. The weather was cool and slightly damp, conditions typical for a late-season duck hunt.

The most noticeable difference was the felt recoil. The porting did seem to reduce muzzle jump slightly, allowing for faster follow-up shots. I also noticed what seemed to be a very slight reduction in perceived recoil, but it was difficult to isolate from other factors.

One small issue I noticed right away was how quickly powder residue built up around the ports. Cleaning was going to be a necessity after each session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple trips to the range and two duck hunting weekends, the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke has held up remarkably well. The stainless steel construction shows no signs of rust or corrosion. Cleaning remains straightforward, although the ports require a bit more attention.

The choke continues to deliver consistent patterns with various steel shot loads. I have yet to experience any issues with steel shot or pattern degradation. It has easily outperformed my expectations compared to the factory chokes in my Browning, especially at distances beyond 40 yards.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR

Specifications

• The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR is designed for 12-gauge shotguns with the Browning Invector DS (Design Series) choke system. This ensures a secure and compatible fit in a wide range of Browning shotguns.
• It features Carlson’s Triple Shot Technology (TST), a series of three graduated rings in the taper section. These rings are designed to gradually constrict the shot column, reducing pellet deformation and promoting denser patterns.
• The choke is constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel. This provides exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring a long lifespan even under harsh conditions.
• It has an extended design, adding approximately one inch to the muzzle of the shotgun. This extended length provides a longer parallel section, which contributes to tighter and more consistent patterns.
• The choke is available in close, mid, and long-range constrictions. This allows hunters and shooters to select the optimal choke for their specific shooting needs and distances.
• It features a ported design to reduce recoil and muzzle climb. The ports vent gases upward and to the sides, helping to stabilize the shotgun during firing.

The TST design and steel-shot compatibility are critical for waterfowl hunting, where dense patterns and non-toxic shot are essential. The extended and ported design contributes to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots, which can be the difference between bagging a bird and watching it fly away.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR excels in delivering consistent and dense patterns, particularly with steel shot. The TST design appears to live up to its promise of reducing pellet deformation.

Its strengths lie in its consistent performance across different ranges and with various steel shot loads. The porting, while subtle, does contribute to slightly reduced recoil and muzzle jump.

It meets and slightly exceeds my expectations. This choke is a noticeable improvement over factory chokes, especially for longer-range shots.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a durable stainless steel finish. The choke feels solid and well-made.

The Carlsons Cremator is incredibly user-friendly. The wrench-less design makes installation and removal quick and easy.

Durability & Maintenance

The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures excellent durability. I anticipate it will last for many seasons of heavy use with proper care.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only regular cleaning to remove powder residue. Special attention should be given to the ports to prevent buildup.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR does not come with any additional accessories beyond the choke tube itself. However, its compatibility with the Browning Invector DS system makes it easily interchangeable with other chokes for different shooting scenarios.

While there are no specific customization options for the choke itself, shooters can tailor their loads to achieve optimal performance with the choke’s specific constriction. Aftermarket choke wrenches can be used, but aren’t necessary.

Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR?

The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR is perfect for waterfowl hunters seeking to improve their pattern density and extend their effective range with steel shot. This choke is also suitable for sporting clays shooters looking for a performance upgrade and slightly reduced recoil.

Hunters who primarily shoot lead shot or who prioritize affordability over performance might skip this product. Someone who doesn’t mind cleaning their chokes regularly and demands consistent performance will love it.

A good choke tube case and a quality bore cleaner are must-have accessories to protect and maintain this investment.

Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR

The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR is a well-designed and effective choke tube that delivers on its promise of improved pattern density and reduced recoil. The price of $48.99 is justified by the enhanced performance and durable construction.

I would personally recommend the Carlsons Cremator to any serious waterfowl hunter or sporting clays shooter looking to upgrade their shotgun’s performance. It is a worthwhile investment that can make a noticeable difference in the field.

Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference a Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke can make. Get tighter patterns, reduced recoil, and more birds in the bag!

Check Best Price HERE