Let’s Dive into Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL
The Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL is a specialized choke tube designed for Remington 12-gauge shotguns. Manufactured by Trulock, this tactical choke is engineered for optimal performance with breaching rounds, buckshot, and rifled slugs, making it a versatile addition to any shotgun owner’s arsenal. Its crenellated muzzle provides a stand-off capability, adding another layer of utility to this already impressive choke.
My need for this product stemmed from a desire for greater versatility with my Remington 870. I wanted a single choke that could handle a variety of ammunition types without sacrificing accuracy or effectiveness. The promise of improved performance with both buckshot and slugs, coupled with the breaching capability, made the Trulock choke an intriguing option.
Upon receiving the Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL, my initial impression was one of solid build quality. The 17-4 stainless steel construction felt robust and durable, and the black finish was clean and professional. It had a reassuring weight, indicating a quality piece of engineering.
I considered similar tactical chokes from Carlson’s and Briley, but the Trulock stood out due to its specific focus on optimizing performance with breaching rounds and buckshot/slugs. Many tactical chokes emphasize breaching alone, or offer only marginal improvement with other ammunition types, but Trulock seemed to deliver on both fronts. I was excited to test its capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL was at an outdoor shooting range. I tested it with a variety of ammunition: 00 buckshot, rifled slugs, and a few dummy breaching rounds for function. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions.
The performance was immediately noticeable, particularly with buckshot. The patterns were tighter and more consistent than with the factory-modified choke. I experienced no issues with cycling or extraction, and the choke held up well to the recoil of both buckshot and slugs. The Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL installed easily with the correct choke wrench for my Remington 870.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL continues to perform flawlessly. I’ve used it in various conditions, including light rain and dusty environments. The finish shows no signs of wear, and the choke remains easy to clean.
Durability has proven to be excellent. After cleaning, I always apply a thin coat of gun oil and wipe the excess off. I haven’t noticed any rust or corrosion, despite some exposure to moisture. Compared to my previous experiences with less expensive chokes, the Trulock provides a significantly better and more consistent performance, while maintaining the pattern I want.
Breaking Down the Features of Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL
Specifications
Manufacturer: Trulock
Gauge: 12
Choke Tube System: Remington Choke (Invector)
Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel
Finish: Black
Quantity: 1
The 17-4 stainless steel provides exceptional strength and corrosion resistance, ensuring a long service life.
The Remington Choke (Invector) system ensures compatibility with a wide range of Remington 12-gauge shotguns. This makes it a versatile choice for many shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL excels at improving the accuracy and pattern density of buckshot and rifled slugs. It mitigates the need to switch chokes when using different types of ammunition. Its crenellated muzzle provides a functional stand-off device, making it suitable for tactical applications.
The Trulock choke significantly tightens buckshot patterns at various distances, greatly improving effectiveness. The improved patterns allows shots to consistently land on target. The only potential weakness is that, like any tactical choke, it might not provide the absolute tightest possible pattern with certain specialized buckshot loads compared to a dedicated full choke.
Design & Ergonomics
The Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL is robustly constructed with a weight that inspires confidence without being cumbersome. Its black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, providing a non-reflective surface. The choke is easy to install and remove with a standard choke wrench.
The crenellated muzzle is well-designed and doesn’t interfere with normal shooting when not used for breaching. The choke is well made with no cosmetic defects. There is no learning curve associated with using this choke, as it functions just like any other choke tube.
Durability & Maintenance
Made from 17-4 stainless steel, the Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL is built to last. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in optimal condition. The corrosion-resistant properties of the stainless steel minimize the risk of rust, even in humid environments.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply clean it after each shooting session with a solvent and a brush, then apply a light coat of oil. This is my typical procedure for cleaning chokes to ensure longevity. No specialized tools or procedures are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality, although a choke wrench is essential for installation and removal. While there are no specific “customization” options for the choke itself, its compatibility with Remington 12-gauge shotguns allows for a vast array of other customizations to the firearm. This includes stocks, forends, sights, and other tactical accessories.
The Trulock choke is compatible with most standard choke wrenches designed for Remington shotguns. This gives you more flexibility when it comes to customization. The choke installs easily and is compatible with most available accessories.
Pros and Cons of Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL
Pros
- Improved Buckshot Patterns: Trulock provides tighter, more consistent patterns for increased accuracy and effectiveness.
- Versatile Ammunition Compatibility: Functions optimally with breaching rounds, buckshot, and rifled slugs.
- Durable Construction: Made from 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Breaching Capability: Crenellated muzzle allows for stand-off breaching applications.
- Easy Installation and Maintenance: Simple to install with a standard choke wrench and easy to clean.
Cons
- Potential Pattern Variation: Dedicated full chokes might offer marginally tighter patterns with specific buckshot loads.
- Specialized Application: Primarily designed for tactical/defensive use, not optimal for dedicated clay shooting.
Who Should Buy Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL?
The Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL is perfect for law enforcement officers, tactical shooters, and home defense enthusiasts who need a versatile and reliable choke for their Remington 12-gauge shotgun. It’s also a good choice for hunters who use buckshot for deer or other game in dense cover, requiring tighter patterns for ethical shots. The addition of the breaching capabilities provide an additional utility for breaching doors when necessary.
This product might not be ideal for dedicated clay shooters or bird hunters who prioritize the widest possible patterns. A modified or improved cylinder choke would be a better choice for those applications. A must-have accessory is a quality choke wrench, preferably one with good leverage.
Conclusion on Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL
Overall, the Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL is an excellent investment for anyone seeking to enhance the versatility and performance of their Remington 12-gauge shotgun. Its robust construction, improved pattern density with buckshot and slugs, and added breaching capability make it a valuable addition to any tactical or defensive setup. The improvements over a standard choke made for a more consistent shot pattern.
At $53.49, the price is justified by the quality of materials, enhanced performance, and versatility offered. I wholeheartedly recommend the Trulock Choke Tubes TTCREM12SPL to anyone looking for a reliable and effective tactical choke. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the Trulock difference!