Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified is a specialized choke tube designed for SKB shotguns, specifically for sporting clay enthusiasts looking for enhanced performance. Carlson’s Choke Tubes is known for crafting quality aftermarket choke tubes. This particular model promises improved patterns and tighter groupings at moderate ranges, essential for competitive clay shooting.
I was seeking a choke tube to enhance the versatility of my SKB shotgun for sporting clays. My factory choke was not delivering the consistency I needed. I wanted something that would give me a more predictable pattern at distances where I often struggled to break clays.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Carlson’s choke was positive. The black finish looked sleek and durable. The weight felt substantial, indicative of the heat-treated stainless steel construction mentioned in the specifications.
I considered the Briley Spectrum choke tubes and the Trulock Precision Hunter chokes before settling on the Carlson’s. Ultimately, the Carlson’s choke’s reputation for reliability and its focus on sporting clays pushed it to the top of my list. I was excited to see how it would perform on the range.
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified immediately impressed me with its robust build quality and promise of tighter patterns.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my local sporting clays range on a moderately windy day. The course presented a variety of targets at different distances and angles. I focused on stations where I usually struggled with my factory modified choke.
The Improved Modified choke performed admirably, delivering noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns compared to my factory choke. I felt more confident in breaking clays at distances between 30 and 40 yards, where I had previously experienced inconsistent breaks. There were no initial issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The finish has held up well despite repeated use and cleaning.
Maintenance is straightforward: a quick cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent after each session is sufficient. Compared to my experiences with cheaper aftermarket chokes, this Carlson’s choke has significantly outperformed them in terms of pattern consistency and durability. It definitely delivers on its promises.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Carlson’s Choke Tubes, a reputable brand known for producing high-quality aftermarket chokes.
- Color: Black, providing a sleek and non-reflective finish.
- Fabric/Material: 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, offering exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. This ensures a long lifespan even with frequent use.
- Gauge: 12, specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns.
- Choke Tube System: SKB Competition Choke, ensuring compatibility with SKB shotguns utilizing the competition choke system.
- Choke Type: Improved Modified, providing a balance between range and pattern density. It is ideal for sporting clays at medium distances.
- Diameter: 0.71 in, carefully engineered for optimal pattern performance.
- Gun Make: SKB, guaranteeing a perfect fit and seamless integration with SKB shotguns.
- Quantity: 1, including a single choke tube for targeted performance enhancement.
- Additional Features: Non-Ported, minimizing noise and felt recoil for a smoother shooting experience.
- Included Accessories: Choke Wrench, facilitating easy installation and removal of the choke tube.
- Country of Origin: USA, signifying high-quality manufacturing and materials.
These specifications collectively contribute to the choke’s performance by providing a durable, precisely engineered component that enhances pattern density and effective range.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified excels in delivering consistent and predictable patterns at medium ranges (30-40 yards). This results in improved accuracy and higher hit rates on sporting clays. Its performance is reliable across various shooting conditions.
The choke’s strength lies in its ability to tighten patterns without sacrificing pattern density, resulting in fewer missed targets. A potential weakness could be that it might not be ideal for very close-range targets (less than 20 yards), where a more open choke might be preferable. It significantly exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The choke’s design is simple and functional, made with durable 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel. The black finish minimizes glare. The choke’s weight adds a touch of stability to the shotgun.
Installation is simple using the included choke wrench, and no special tools or gunsmithing is required. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction ensures exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified is designed to withstand repeated use and exposure to harsh environments. With proper care, it should last for many years.
Maintenance involves cleaning the choke tube with a choke tube brush and solvent after each use to remove powder residue and prevent buildup. Oiling the threads periodically is also recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The choke tube comes with a choke wrench for easy installation and removal. There are no specific customization options for this particular choke tube model. It is compatible with any SKB shotgun that uses the SKB Competition Choke system. This compatibility allows for easy swapping of different chokes for different shooting scenarios.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified
Pros
- Delivers consistently tighter patterns at medium ranges, improving hit rates in sporting clays.
- Constructed from durable 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and remove with the included choke wrench.
- The non-ported design minimizes noise and felt recoil for a smoother shooting experience.
- Manufactured in the USA, guaranteeing high-quality craftsmanship.
Cons
- May not be ideal for very close-range targets (less than 20 yards).
- Only compatible with SKB shotguns using the SKB Competition Choke system.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified is perfect for sporting clay shooters who own an SKB shotgun and are looking to improve their performance at medium-range targets. It’s also suitable for hunters who require a reliable and consistent pattern for upland game birds.
This choke might not be the best choice for shooters who primarily engage in close-range shooting or who own shotguns that are not compatible with the SKB Competition Choke system.
A must-have accessory is a good quality choke tube case to protect the choke during storage and transportation.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified is a well-made and effective choke tube that delivers on its promises of improved pattern density and range for sporting clays. Its durable construction and easy installation make it a worthwhile investment for SKB shotgun owners.
At $58.49, the price is justified considering the enhanced performance and durability it offers compared to factory chokes.
I would definitely recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified to any SKB shotgun owner looking to up their game in sporting clays or hunting. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference a quality choke can make!