First Thoughts on the Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555
The Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555 promises tighter patterns and reduced recoil, a compelling claim in the world of shotgun accessories. Indian Creek has built a solid reputation, and the Black Diamond line is often touted as a top performer. I’ve always been skeptical of aftermarket choke tubes, wondering if they truly live up to the hype, but this one piqued my interest.
I was looking for a choke tube to improve the pattern density of my 20 gauge Remington 870 for turkey hunting. The factory choke was simply too open, resulting in inconsistent patterns at 30-40 yards. I was hoping this choke would provide a denser, more reliable pattern at those ranges, giving me more confidence when taking a shot.
The choke tube arrived in simple packaging, but the build quality was immediately apparent. The steel felt solid and well-machined. It had a reassuring weight to it, suggesting quality materials.
I considered a Carlson’s choke tube and a Briley, both popular options, but I was drawn to Indian Creek’s reputation for exceptional performance in turkey hunting scenarios. The Indian Creek Black Diamond was specifically designed for tight patterns at longer ranges, precisely what I needed. My initial excitement was high, hoping it would solve my patterning issues.
Real-World Testing: Putting Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555 at my local shooting range. The weather was slightly windy, but otherwise ideal. I shot at paper targets at 20, 30, and 40 yards, using a variety of turkey loads.
The Black Diamond was easy to install, threading smoothly into my Remington 870. Recoil felt noticeably reduced compared to the factory choke. The patterns were immediately tighter and more consistent than what I was used to. There were no issues with the choke tube loosening or any other malfunctions during the initial testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple trips to the range and a full turkey season, the Indian Creek Black Diamond has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear. The finish remains intact, and the threads are still clean and smooth.
Maintenance is simple; I just run a bore brush through it after each use. I occasionally apply a light coat of gun oil to prevent rust. The Black Diamond significantly outperformed my previous experiences with factory chokes. It consistently delivered tighter, more predictable patterns, translating to more successful hunts.
Breaking Down the Features of Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555
Specifications
- Caliber: 20 Gauge. This ensures compatibility with 20 gauge shotguns.
- Compatibility: All Remington threaded 20 gauge shotguns. Check your shotgun’s threading before purchasing to guarantee fit.
- Constriction: .555. This constriction is optimized for dense patterns at longer ranges.
- Material: High-quality steel. It ensures durability and longevity.
- Purpose: Designed to maximize accuracy and pattern density. It reduces recoil for comfortable shooting.
These specifications are crucial for maximizing performance and user experience. The tight .555 constriction ensures consistent and dense patterns, which is paramount for turkey hunting. The robust steel construction guarantees that the choke tube can withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555 excels at its primary function: delivering tight, consistent patterns. I consistently achieved denser patterns at 30-40 yards. This increased my confidence in making ethical shots during turkey season.
The only minor weakness is that the extremely tight pattern might not be ideal for very close shots (under 20 yards). The center of the pattern can be too dense at those distances, potentially damaging the meat. It exceeded my expectations by consistently delivering dense, even patterns at extended ranges, significantly improving my hunting success.
Design & Ergonomics
The Indian Creek Black Diamond is a no-frills, functional design. The materials are robust and the finish is durable. The added weight is negligible.
The choke tube is incredibly user-friendly. It threads easily into my Remington 870 without requiring any special tools. There is no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Indian Creek Black Diamond is built to last. The steel construction and durable finish ensure it can withstand harsh conditions. Regular cleaning and light oiling are all that is required to maintain its performance and appearance.
It is designed for long-term use and should withstand many seasons of hunting. This ease of maintenance and robust construction are significant advantages.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555 doesn’t come with any accessories. No customization options exist beyond selecting the appropriate constriction for your specific needs. However, it seamlessly integrates with Remington 870 20-gauge shotguns and can be paired with various turkey loads to fine-tune performance.
It is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Remington shotguns. This simplicity is a strength, focusing on core performance rather than unnecessary frills.
Pros and Cons of Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555
Pros
- Incredible pattern density: Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at 30-40 yards, ideal for turkey hunting.
- Noticeably Reduced Recoil: Makes shooting heavier turkey loads more comfortable, allowing for better shot placement.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality steel for long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.
- Easy Installation: Threads smoothly into Remington 870 shotguns without requiring special tools.
- Improved Confidence: Provides a more reliable pattern, increasing confidence in making ethical shots.
Cons
- Potentially Too Tight for Close Range: The extremely tight pattern might be too dense for shots under 20 yards.
- Limited Customization: No adjustable features or additional accessories included.
Who Should Buy Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555?
Perfect for: Turkey hunters who want to maximize their effective range and pattern density. It’s also ideal for shooters who are recoil-sensitive and want a more comfortable shooting experience.
Who should skip this product? Hunters primarily targeting game at very close ranges (under 20 yards) might find the pattern too tight. Those who prefer adjustable chokes for versatility across different game and shooting scenarios should also avoid it.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality turkey load specifically designed for tight patterns and a reliable choke tube wrench are essential. Consider using a red dot sight for enhanced accuracy at longer ranges.
Conclusion on Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555
The Indian Creek Black Diamond Choke Tube 20 GA All Remington .555 is a dedicated performer that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and reduced recoil. The $69.99 price tag is justified by the improved performance and confidence it provides.
I would personally recommend it to any serious turkey hunter looking to maximize their shotgun’s potential. It’s a simple, effective upgrade that can significantly improve your chances of success. If you’re ready to take your turkey hunting to the next level, the Indian Creek Black Diamond is a worthwhile investment.