Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder is an aftermarket barrel designed as a tactical or home defense upgrade for Benelli Nova and SuperNova shotguns. This particular barrel swaps out your longer hunting barrel for a shorter, more maneuverable 18.5-inch option, complete with adjustable sights and a cylinder bore choke. Carlson’s Choke Tubes aims to provide a high-quality, easily installed solution for those wanting to quickly transition their hunting shotgun into a close-quarters defensive weapon.
I acquired this barrel looking for a way to increase the versatility of my Benelli Nova. While I enjoy using it for waterfowl hunting, I also wanted a more practical option for home defense without buying a separate shotgun. This seemed like the perfect solution to convert my Benelli Nova into a multi-purpose platform.
Upon unboxing, the barrel felt solid and well-made. The matte finish looked durable, and the adjustable sights were a welcome addition. The weight was balanced, and it felt noticeably shorter and handier than the original 28-inch barrel.
Compared to purchasing a dedicated home defense shotgun like a Mossberg 500 or a Remington 870, the Carlson’s barrel seemed like a more cost-effective solution for my situation. Some competitors offer similar aftermarket barrels, but Carlson’s reputation for quality and the included adjustable sights swayed my decision. I was excited to see how it performed, and initially impressed with the apparent quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder at my local shooting range. The range had a dedicated bay for shotguns, with targets set at varying distances representative of home defense scenarios (7-25 yards). I used a variety of 00 buckshot and rifled slugs to assess its performance.
The barrel performed reliably under dry conditions. I also used it in slightly damp weather with no issues. The shorter length made the shotgun much easier to maneuver within the confined space of the shooting bay.
Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes with no specialized tools required. The adjustable sights were easy to zero, and significantly improved accuracy with slugs compared to the stock bead sight on my original barrel. My only initial issue was a slightly tighter fit than the original barrel, requiring a bit more force to seat it fully.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Carlson’s barrel has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the finish, despite frequent handling and cleaning. The adjustable sights have maintained their zero, even after repeated firing of heavy loads.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple, just like the original barrel. Regular cleaning with a shotgun bore brush and solvent keeps it functioning flawlessly. The Carlson’s barrel has exceeded my expectations and has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper aftermarket parts, the Carlson’s barrel is a clear winner. The improved accuracy with slugs, the ease of installation, and the overall durability have made it an indispensable part of my Benelli Nova setup. It offers a huge increase in maneuverability compared to the factory barrel.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Carlson’s Choke Tubes manufactures the barrel using high-quality materials and precision engineering. This ensures reliability and longevity.
- Color: The barrel features a matte black finish. This reduces glare and provides a tactical appearance.
- Fabric/Material: Constructed from certified ordnance grade 4140 steel. This provides exceptional strength and resistance to wear.
- Barrel Length: The barrel length is 18.5 inches. This offers improved maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Gun Make: Designed specifically for Benelli shotguns. This ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance.
- Gun Model: Compatible with Benelli Nova and Benelli SuperNova models. This provides versatility for Benelli owners.
- Choke Type: Comes with a Cylinder choke. This allows for a wider shot pattern, ideal for close-range engagements.
- Adjustable Sights: Includes adjustable sights. These drastically improve aiming and accuracy with slugs.
These specifications are crucial for its intended purpose. The shorter barrel and cylinder choke make it ideal for home defense. The adjustable sights allow for precise aiming at longer ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder performs exceptionally well in its intended role. Accuracy with buckshot is excellent at typical home defense distances (7-15 yards), providing a wide, devastating pattern. The improved sights make slug accuracy dramatically better.
The shorter barrel is noticeably more maneuverable than the factory barrel, making it easier to handle in tight spaces. The cylinder choke provides a wide spread, decreasing the need for perfect aim in high-stress situations.
While the cylinder choke is ideal for close ranges, it does limit the effective range for hunting applications. Also, the tighter fit requires a bit more force during installation. Overall, the barrel meets and exceeds expectations, providing a significant improvement in handling and accuracy for home defense.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the 4140 steel providing a durable and robust platform. The matte finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, reducing glare and providing a non-slip grip. The weight is well-balanced, making the shotgun easy to handle and control.
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder is very user-friendly. Installation takes only a few minutes with no gunsmithing experience required. The adjustable sights are easy to adjust and provide a clear sight picture.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder is built to last. The 4140 steel construction and durable matte finish should withstand years of use and abuse. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a bore brush, solvent, and gun oil. The barrel is designed for easy disassembly and cleaning, ensuring that it remains in peak operating condition. With proper care, the Carlson’s barrel should provide a lifetime of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder includes adjustable sights, which greatly enhance its functionality. As it’s a barrel, additional customization revolves around the shotgun itself.
The barrel is compatible with most Benelli Nova and SuperNova accessories, such as aftermarket magazine tubes, shell holders, and slings. While no specific choke tubes are included beyond the cylinder bore, the Benelli Nova accepts standard Benelli Mobilchoke-style choke tubes, offering future customization options if desired.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder
Pros
- Dramatically improved maneuverability: The shorter barrel makes the shotgun easier to handle in tight spaces.
- Adjustable sights: Vastly improves accuracy with slugs, providing a more versatile platform.
- Easy installation: Can be installed in minutes with no specialized tools.
- Durable construction: Built from high-quality 4140 steel for long-lasting performance.
- Affordable upgrade: A cost-effective way to convert your Benelli Nova for home defense.
Cons
- Cylinder choke limits effective range: Not ideal for hunting beyond close ranges.
- Tighter fit requires slightly more force during installation: May require some effort to seat the barrel fully.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder is perfect for Benelli Nova or SuperNova owners looking to convert their shotgun for home defense or tactical applications. It’s also a great choice for those who want improved maneuverability and accuracy with slugs.
Those primarily focused on long-range hunting or competitive shooting may want to consider other options. Someone seeking a factory Benelli barrel might prefer to look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory would be a quality sling for improved weapon retention. A light would be a critical modification to improve target ID in low-light scenarios.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Nova & S-Nova Barrel, 18 1/2 in. w/Adj Sights, Cylinder is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to enhance the versatility of their Benelli Nova or SuperNova shotgun. The price is justified by the improved maneuverability, enhanced accuracy, and durable construction.
I would definitely recommend this barrel to anyone looking for an affordable and effective way to convert their hunting shotgun for home defense. The Carlson’s barrel transforms the Benelli Nova into a truly multi-purpose platform. Upgrade your Benelli Nova today and experience the difference!