Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full promises to tame the beast of recoil in your Benelli shotgun, enhancing both accuracy and follow-up shot speed. Carlson’s Choke Tubes is a well-respected name in the shotgun world, known for quality and innovation, and this brake aims to deliver tactical advantages to hunters and competition shooters alike. It’s a specialized piece of equipment designed to improve shotgun handling and performance.
I’ve spent years struggling with recoil management, especially during rapid-fire scenarios in tactical shooting courses. My goal was to find a muzzle device that would not only reduce felt recoil but also minimize muzzle climb, allowing for faster target acquisition. I hoped that this Carlson’s choke would be the solution.
Out of the box, the Carlson’s brake has a robust, no-nonsense look. The black finish is even, and the porting appears well-machined, suggesting good build quality. Its weight feels substantial but not overly burdensome, indicating the use of quality steel; the threads were clean and the overall impression was of a well-made piece of equipment.
I considered other brakes like the Briley Diffusion Choke and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck. The Briley offered similar recoil reduction but lacked the aggressive porting of the Carlson’s. The Patternmaster focused more on pattern density but didn’t emphasize recoil mitigation as much.
I was definitely intrigued and hopeful. The aggressive porting promised significant recoil reduction, and the Carlson’s reputation gave me confidence. I was eager to get it to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full at my local shooting range, focusing on rapid-fire drills and target transitions. I used a Benelli M2, a popular semi-automatic shotgun known for its reliability and speed. I also patterned it at 25 and 40 yards.
The brake performed noticeably well in recoil reduction and limiting muzzle climb. Even with heavy 3-inch magnum loads, felt recoil was significantly reduced, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. The brake didn’t seem to be affected by weather at all.
The installation was straightforward, replacing the factory choke tube without any specialized tools. The difference in recoil management was immediately noticeable, allowing me to maintain a better sight picture during rapid firing. However, the increased noise and side blast were immediately noticeable.
The initial performance was impressive, but the side blast took some getting used to. I wasn’t sure if this would affect usability in the long run.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it in various conditions, from sunny days at the range to rainy hunting trips, and it has consistently performed without issue. The finish shows no signs of significant wear, and the threads remain in excellent condition.
Durability has been excellent, with no signs of cracking or deformation despite repeated use with heavy loads. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent fouling buildup in the ports, but the process is simple.
Compared to my previous experiences with standard choke tubes, the Carlson’s brake offers a significant improvement in recoil management and muzzle control. While a standard choke does nothing to mitigate recoil, the Carlson’s choke truly shines. The improvements made it worth the trade-offs.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full
Specifications
- The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full is designed specifically for Benelli shotguns utilizing the Crio Plus choke system. This ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance.
- It features an Extra Full choke constriction, ideal for tight patterns at longer ranges, especially with buckshot or turkey loads. This also means that the choke is not ideal for close range engagements.
- The brake is constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel with a matte black finish. This ensures durability and corrosion resistance, even in harsh conditions.
- It is designed to reduce recoil and muzzle climb through its ported design. This enhances accuracy and follow-up shot speed.
- The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full is made in the USA. Quality manufacturing ensures reliability and performance.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the brake’s performance and durability. The Extra Full choke and ported design contribute to recoil reduction and pattern density, while the steel construction ensures longevity.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full excels at reducing felt recoil and muzzle climb. This allows for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy, particularly in rapid-fire scenarios.
The primary strength is its recoil reduction, which is significant even with heavy magnum loads. One weakness is its tight choke, which may not be suitable for all shooting situations.
The brake exceeds expectations in recoil management and enhances the overall shooting experience. However, the extremely tight pattern is limiting.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with a robust steel construction and a durable matte black finish. While it adds some weight to the muzzle, it is balanced by the reduction in recoil.
The choke tube is easy to install and remove using a standard choke tube wrench. There’s no real learning curve, as it replaces the existing choke tube.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full is built to last, thanks to its heat-treated stainless steel construction. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring regular cleaning to remove powder residue and fouling. A standard bore brush and solvent are sufficient for keeping it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The brake itself doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality. However, a good choke tube wrench is essential for easy installation and removal.
Since it’s a choke tube, there are no specific customization options beyond choosing different choke constrictions. This brake is designed as a drop-in replacement.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full
Pros
- Significant recoil reduction allows for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy.
- Enhanced muzzle control minimizes muzzle climb, keeping you on target.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy installation with standard choke tube wrench.
- Made in the USA for excellent quality control.
Cons
- Extra Full choke constriction may not be suitable for all shooting scenarios.
- Increased noise and side blast can be uncomfortable for nearby shooters.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full?
This muzzle brake is perfect for tactical and competitive shooters who prioritize recoil reduction and muzzle control. Turkey hunters who demand tight patterns at longer ranges will also find it beneficial.
Those who primarily shoot skeet or close-range clays should skip this product, as the Extra Full choke is too tight for those disciplines. Anyone sensitive to noise or shooting in crowded environments may also want to consider a different option.
A quality choke tube wrench is a must-have for easy installation and removal. Additionally, hearing protection is crucial due to the increased noise level.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full delivers on its promise of reducing recoil and muzzle climb. While the Extra Full choke and increased noise may not suit all shooters, the benefits for tactical applications and turkey hunting are undeniable.
At $130.49, the price is justified by the enhanced performance and durable construction. For those seeking a competitive edge or improved comfort while shooting heavy loads, it’s a worthwhile investment.
I would definitely recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full to shooters looking to tame their Benelli shotgun. Upgrade your Benelli today and experience the difference!