Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full is a specifically designed choke tube intended for use with 28-gauge Benelli shotguns utilizing the Crio or Crio Plus choke system. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this choke is constructed from heat-treated stainless steel and finished in black, promising enhanced durability and consistent performance for sporting clay enthusiasts.
My journey to this particular choke tube stemmed from a desire to fine-tune my 28-gauge Benelli for sporting clays. The factory-supplied chokes were decent, but I sought a tighter pattern at longer distances to improve my scores on those frustratingly distant clays.
Upon unboxing the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full, I was immediately struck by the robust feel of the stainless steel. It had a reassuring heft, suggesting a significant upgrade over some of the thinner, less substantial chokes I’ve encountered. The black finish was smooth and even, promising good corrosion resistance.
I considered the Briley Spectrum choke and the Trulock Precision Hunter choke, both of which are well-regarded in the shooting community. However, the Carlson’s product offered a compelling balance of price and features, specifically the Full constriction known for dense patterns. My initial excitement was high, bordering on giddy – I was eager to see if it lived up to my expectations on the clay range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at the local sporting clay range, a familiar haunt known for its challenging array of presentations. I shot several rounds with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full in my Benelli Montefeltro Silver. The weather was mild and dry, ideal conditions for testing.
The difference in pattern density compared to the factory modified choke was immediately noticeable. Distant clays that were previously chipping now shattered consistently, boosting my confidence and my score. There were no issues with installation or removal and the choke wrench provided ensured a snug fit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full continues to perform flawlessly. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it, and the choke shows no signs of wear or distortion.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe with a bore brush and solvent after each shooting session. The choke remains rust-free even after exposure to humid conditions and occasional light rain. This choke definitely outperforms the factory choke tubes that came with my Benelli, giving me more confidence on long crossers and rabbit targets.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full is designed specifically for Benelli shotguns utilizing the Crio or Crio Plus choke system in 28-gauge. This compatibility is paramount for proper fit and function.
The choke is constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, providing exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion and wear. This material choice ensures a long service life, even with frequent use.
The “Full” choke designation denotes a tight constriction, designed to produce dense patterns at longer ranges. Its diameter measures 0.531 inches. This constriction is ideal for sporting clays where targets are often presented at considerable distances.
It features a non-ported design, meaning there are no external holes or vents along the choke tube. This design minimizes gas escape and perceived recoil.
The package includes a choke wrench, facilitating easy installation and removal. This wrench is a critical accessory for proper choke maintenance.
These specifications directly translate into improved performance on the sporting clays course. The full choke allows for tighter, more consistent patterns at longer distances.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full excels at its primary function: delivering tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges. This dramatically improves hit probability on challenging sporting clay targets.
Its strength lies in its ability to break clays cleanly and consistently at distances where lesser chokes struggle. However, at very close ranges (inside of 20 yards), the pattern may be too tight. Overall, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full significantly exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The choke tube is well-machined with a smooth, even black finish. The knurled end allows for easy grip during installation and removal, even with wet hands.
There is no learning curve – simply screw it in and start shooting. The choke tube is user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full is built to last. Regular cleaning and light lubrication will ensure years of reliable service.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a bore brush, solvent, and a clean cloth. Periodic inspection for thread damage is recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full comes with a basic choke wrench, which is all that’s needed for installation and removal. Aftermarket choke cases and specialized cleaning tools are available, but not essential.
While the choke itself is not customizable, you can experiment with different shot sizes and loads to optimize performance for specific target presentations. The choke is fully compatible with any 28-gauge Benelli shotgun that utilizes the Crio or Crio Plus choke system.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: The full choke constriction delivers incredibly tight patterns at longer ranges, dramatically improving hit probability on distant clays.
- Superior Build Quality: Constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, this choke is built to withstand years of use and resist corrosion.
- Easy Installation and Removal: The included choke wrench and knurled end ensure quick and easy choke changes in the field.
- Noticeable Performance Improvement: Provides a tangible upgrade over factory chokes, leading to higher scores and increased confidence on the sporting clays course.
- Affordable Upgrade: Offers excellent value for the money, providing a significant performance boost without breaking the bank.
Cons
- May be too tight for close-range targets (under 20 yards).
- Included wrench is functional but basic; higher-quality wrenches are available separately.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full?
This choke is perfect for sporting clay shooters seeking to improve their scores on longer, more challenging targets. It is also a good choice for upland bird hunters who frequently encounter flushing birds at a distance.
This product is not ideal for shooters who primarily engage targets at very close ranges (less than 20 yards) or those who prefer a more open pattern.
A quality choke tube lubricant is a must-have accessory. I’d also suggest a higher-quality choke tube wrench for those who change chokes frequently.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Full is a worthwhile investment for any serious sporting clays enthusiast looking to enhance their performance. Its superior pattern density, robust construction, and ease of use make it a standout product in its category.
At a price of $58.49, the value is exceptional. The performance gains justify the cost.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke to anyone seeking to tighten their patterns and break more clays. Don’t hesitate – upgrade your Benelli today and experience the difference!