Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531
The world of shotgun chokes can be a rabbit hole of technical specs and performance claims. But finding the right choke for your specific needs can dramatically improve your shooting. Today, we’re taking a close look at the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531, a choke designed to maximize pattern density and effective range for sporting clays with your 28-gauge Browning shotgun.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade under my belt, I’ve seen countless chokes come and go. What drew me to this particular choke from Carlson’s Choke Tubes was the promise of consistent patterns and increased confidence on the sporting clays course, and it’s made in the USA. I’d been struggling with inconsistent breaks on longer shots and wanted a choke that could tighten my pattern without sacrificing too much close-range performance.
My first impression upon unboxing the choke was its solid, stainless-steel construction. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 felt substantial in hand, suggesting durability and quality. Compared to some cheaper, mass-produced chokes I’ve used in the past, this one immediately stood out with its clean machining and polished finish.
Initially, I was considering a Briley choke known for its exceptional quality and pattern consistency. I also looked at a Muller choke, famed for their light weight and ease of cleaning. Ultimately, I chose the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 for its balance of performance, value, and the strong reputation of Carlson’s Choke Tubes.
I was excited to see if this choke could truly deliver on its promise of tighter, more consistent patterns. I wasn’t disappointed, and I wasn’t entirely surprised. I expected a lot, but was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local sporting clays range, a sprawling course with a variety of challenging targets. I primarily tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 with 7.5 and 8 shot loads. The weather was typical for early spring: a bit breezy and overcast, but dry.
The choke performed admirably, especially on the longer, more challenging stations. I immediately noticed a significant improvement in my break percentage on targets beyond 40 yards. It was easy to install and remove with the included wrench.
One minor surprise was the slight increase in felt recoil, which is to be expected with a tighter choke. However, it wasn’t significant enough to be a major concern.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. It has maintained its tight pattern and has shown no signs of wear or corrosion, despite regular use and cleaning. The 17-4 heat treated stainless steel construction has proven to be incredibly durable.
Cleaning the choke is straightforward, requiring just a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent. I clean it every few times I take it out. Compared to some of my previous experiences with ported chokes, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 is significantly easier to maintain, as there are no ports to clog with residue. It noticeably outperforms the factory-supplied choke tubes in terms of pattern density and consistency at longer ranges.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531
Specifications
- The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 is specifically designed for 28-gauge Browning shotguns with the Invector Plus choke system. This ensures a proper fit and optimal performance.
- The choke is constructed from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, providing exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. This material is known for its ability to withstand the rigors of repeated use.
- It features a Full choke constriction of .531 inches, delivering a tight pattern ideal for longer-range targets. A full choke concentrates the shot, providing increased range and breaking power.
- The choke is non-ported, meaning it lacks the external ports found on some other choke designs. This reduces muzzle jump and minimizes the risk of wad stripping.
- Carlson’s Choke Tubes manufactures this choke in the USA, ensuring high quality and adherence to strict manufacturing standards. I generally prefer to buy products made in the US.
These specifications are vital because they directly influence the choke’s performance and longevity. The stainless-steel construction guarantees resistance to rust, especially important in humid environments. The full choke constriction is crucial for achieving the desired pattern density for breaking clays at longer distances.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 excels in its primary function: delivering a tight, consistent pattern at extended ranges. This is essential for competitive sporting clays shooters who need to consistently break targets at distances of 40 yards and beyond.
The choke’s strength lies in its ability to minimize shot stringing and maintain pattern density, resulting in more reliable breaks. However, its tight constriction means it may not be ideal for very close-range targets (under 20 yards), where a more open choke might be preferable. I found the pattern density to be very impressive.
Overall, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 meets and often exceeds expectations for a full choke designed for sporting clays. It consistently delivers tight patterns and improves break percentages on challenging targets.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 boasts a simple, functional design. Its stainless-steel construction provides a clean, professional look, and the choke’s extended design makes it easy to install and remove with the included choke wrench. It’s not fancy but it gets the job done.
The choke’s weight is well-balanced, adding minimal noticeable weight to the muzzle of the shotgun. The absence of ports contributes to a smoother, cleaner look and simplifies maintenance.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531, crafted from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, is built to last. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the repeated stresses of shooting without showing signs of wear. After months of use, mine still looks and performs like new.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent will keep the choke in optimal condition for years to come. Its corrosion-resistant properties mean it can handle exposure to moisture and harsh environments without deteriorating.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 comes with a basic choke wrench for easy installation and removal. While there are no additional accessories included, the choke is compatible with various aftermarket choke wrenches and storage cases.
Since this choke is purpose-built for the Browning Invector Plus system, there are no specific customization options beyond selecting different choke constrictions within the Carlson’s Choke Tubes lineup. However, shooters can experiment with different shot sizes and loads to fine-tune their patterns for specific target presentations.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density at Longer Ranges: The full choke constriction delivers tight, consistent patterns, improving break percentages on challenging targets.
- Durable Stainless-Steel Construction: The 17-4 heat treated stainless steel ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion.
- Easy to Install and Maintain: The extended design and included choke wrench make installation and removal simple, and cleaning is straightforward.
- Made in the USA: High-quality manufacturing and adherence to strict standards.
- Noticeable Improvement in Performance: Significantly outperforms factory chokes in terms of pattern consistency and effective range.
Cons
- Not ideal for very close-range targets due to tight constriction, a more open choke might be preferable in those situations.
- Slight increase in felt recoil due to tighter pattern, which may be noticeable for some shooters.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 is perfect for sporting clays shooters using a Browning 28-gauge shotgun who want to improve their performance on longer, more challenging targets. It’s also ideal for hunters using a 28-gauge for upland game at longer ranges where a tight pattern is beneficial.
This choke might not be the best choice for beginners or those who primarily shoot close-range targets. Those shooters would likely benefit from a more open choke, such as an improved cylinder or skeet choke.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality choke tube case to protect the choke when it’s not in use. A good cleaning kit with a bore brush and solvent is also essential for maintaining the choke’s performance.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531
Overall, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 is a high-quality choke that delivers on its promise of improved pattern density and extended range. Its durable construction, ease of use, and noticeable performance enhancement make it a worthwhile investment for serious sporting clays shooters and upland hunters.
At a price of $48.49, the choke offers excellent value for its performance. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to tighten their patterns and improve their scores on the sporting clays course.
If you’re tired of inconsistent breaks and want to take your shooting to the next level, give the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Sporting Clay Full .531 a try. You might be surprised at the difference it makes.