Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet
Carlson’s Choke Tubes has long been a trusted name in the shotgunning world, known for producing quality aftermarket chokes that can significantly improve a shotgun’s performance. The SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet choke tube is designed specifically for SKB competition shotguns, offering a Skeet constriction intended to optimize patterns for close-range targets in sports like Skeet and Sporting Clays. This choke promises enhanced pattern density and consistency, which can translate to more broken clays and improved scores.
My journey to finding the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet began with a frustrating experience at the Skeet range. I was consistently missing close-range targets with my SKB shotgun, even though my technique felt solid, making me suspect my factory choke was the issue.
Upon receiving the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet, my initial impression was positive; the stainless steel construction appeared robust, and the included choke wrench was a welcome addition. Its sleek, non-ported design also appealed to my preference for a clean, traditional look.
Compared to Briley or Muller chokes, the Carlson’s option stood out due to its reputation for quality at a more accessible price point. Ultimately, the decision came down to value and Carlson’s excellent reputation for producing effective choke tubes.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would address my patterning issues without introducing new problems like difficult installation or cleaning. The promise of improved close-range performance definitely had me excited to get out on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet to the Test
First Use Experience
The first test of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet took place at my local Skeet range on a sunny, moderately windy afternoon. I shot several rounds of Skeet, focusing on stations 1, 2, and 8, where the targets are closest and require a wide, even pattern.
The Carlson’s choke performed admirably in these conditions, consistently producing dense, well-distributed patterns at the close ranges typical of Skeet. Notably, the wind didn’t seem to affect the pattern significantly, which was an improvement over my previous experiences.
The Carlson’s choke installed quickly and easily with the included wrench; no special tools or excessive force were required. Adjusting to the slightly wider pattern took a round or two, but once I dialed in my lead, I started breaking more clays.
The initial shooting session revealed no immediate issues; the choke tube held securely, didn’t loosen during firing, and noticeably improved my hit rate on crossing targets. The consistent patterns gave me a newfound confidence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including weekly Skeet sessions and occasional Sporting Clays outings, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my shotgunning setup. The stainless-steel construction has held up well, showing no signs of rust or corrosion despite regular exposure to the elements.
I’ve noticed only minor cosmetic wear on the exterior finish of the choke tube; otherwise, it appears to be in excellent condition, demonstrating its durability. The threads remain sharp and clean, ensuring a secure and reliable fit in my shotgun.
Maintenance involves simply wiping down the choke tube after each use and occasionally applying a thin coat of gun oil to prevent any potential corrosion. Cleaning is straightforward, and the stainless-steel material resists fouling buildup effectively.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlson’s choke has noticeably improved pattern consistency and clay-breaking performance, particularly at close range. It has exceeded my expectations, proving to be a worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet
Specifications
- The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet is specifically designed for 12-gauge SKB competition shotguns. This ensures a precise fit and optimal performance.
- The choke constriction is designated as Skeet, providing a wider pattern suitable for close-range targets. Its diameter measures 0.73 inches.
- Constructed from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, the choke tube offers exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. This promises a long service life, even under demanding conditions.
- The choke tube is non-ported, maintaining a sleek profile and reducing muzzle blast and felt recoil. This makes it ideal for sporting clays.
- It comes with a choke wrench, facilitating easy installation and removal. This ensures convenient changes in the field.
- It is proudly Made in the USA by Carlson’s Choke Tubes. This highlights high manufacturing standards.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the choke tube’s performance and suitability for specific shooting disciplines. The Skeet constriction is ideal for close-range targets, while the stainless-steel construction ensures longevity and reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet excels in its primary function: producing consistent, wide patterns at close range. This is essential for effectively breaking clays in Skeet and similar shooting sports.
The choke’s strengths lie in its reliable performance, durable construction, and easy installation. One area for potential improvement might be offering different finish options to better match various shotgun aesthetics.
The Carlson’s choke meets and even exceeds expectations by significantly improving pattern consistency and hit rates compared to factory chokes. It’s a great choice for improving your competitive shooting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet features a straightforward, functional design. Its stainless-steel construction exudes quality.
The choke tube is easy to handle and install, thanks to its precise threading and the included wrench. There is no noticeable learning curve; even novice shooters can quickly understand and use it effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet is built to last for years with proper care. Expect reliable performance through countless rounds.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. Its construction promotes long-term durability and reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet comes with a choke wrench for easy installation and removal. While there are no direct customization options for this particular choke tube, users can explore other Carlson’s choke tubes for different constrictions.
The choke tube is designed to fit SKB competition shotguns and is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench. This compatibility ensures ease of use and flexibility.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet
Pros
- Improved Pattern Consistency: Delivers reliable, wide patterns for close-range targets, increasing hit rates.
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Made from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel for long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion.
- Easy Installation: Includes a choke wrench for quick and easy installation and removal.
- Enhanced Shooting Performance: Specifically designed for Skeet and Sporting Clays, improving scores and overall shooting experience.
- Affordable Quality: Offers excellent performance at a competitive price point compared to other aftermarket chokes.
Cons
- Limited Finish Options: Only available in stainless steel, which may not match all shotgun aesthetics.
- Specific to SKB Shotguns: Designed exclusively for SKB competition shotguns, limiting its compatibility.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet is perfect for competitive Skeet and Sporting Clays shooters using SKB shotguns, looking to improve their close-range target acquisition. Any shotgun enthusiasts seeking consistent patterns will benefit significantly from this choke tube.
This product may not be ideal for hunters or those primarily shooting long-range targets; they would benefit more from tighter constrictions. Also, those without an SKB shotgun should obviously skip this product.
A must-have accessory would be a quality choke tube case to protect the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet when it’s not in use. No modifications are necessary, as it’s designed for optimal performance out of the box.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet is a well-made, effective choke tube that delivers on its promise of improved pattern consistency and close-range performance. Its stainless-steel construction ensures durability, while its easy installation makes it a user-friendly upgrade for any SKB shotgun owner.
At a price of $55.49, this choke tube offers excellent value, providing noticeable performance improvements without breaking the bank. The price is justified when considering its build quality and effectiveness on the Skeet range.
I would personally recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet to any SKB shotgun owner looking to enhance their close-range shooting performance. It’s a reliable and affordable upgrade that can make a real difference in your scores.
Ready to break more clays? Upgrade your SKB shotgun with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp. 12ga Sporting Clay Skeet today!