Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder Review

Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder is a specialized choke tube designed to enhance the performance of Ruger 12-gauge shotguns in sporting clay applications. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this cylinder choke promises improved patterns and consistent results for shooters of all skill levels. This choke tube, finished in a non-reflective black, offers both functional benefits and aesthetic appeal.

I’ve been an avid sporting clay shooter for years, constantly seeking marginal gains in performance. My primary shotgun, a Ruger Red Label 12ga, needed a choke that provided consistent, wide patterns for close-range targets. I was specifically looking for a cylinder choke that wouldn’t constrict the shot, allowing for faster target acquisition and a broader spread.

Upon unboxing, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder immediately impressed me with its solid construction. The black finish is smooth and even, and the 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel feels incredibly durable. The included choke wrench was a welcome bonus, showing Carlson’s attention to detail.

I considered a Briley Spectrum choke and a Trulock Precision Hunter choke, both reputable brands, but I chose the Carlson’s due to its specific designation for sporting clays and positive online reviews regarding pattern consistency. The price point was also a significant factor, making it an accessible upgrade.

My initial reaction was excitement; I was eager to test its performance on the range and see if it lived up to the claims. There was a cautious optimism, a hope that this seemingly small change could translate into improved scores.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder at my local sporting clays range. The course presented a variety of close-range targets, perfect for evaluating the choke’s performance. The weather was slightly overcast, but dry.

The choke performed admirably, delivering consistently wide and even patterns at typical close-range sporting clays distances (15-25 yards). Target acquisition was noticeably faster, and I felt more confident on presentations that required a quick shot. I had no issues installing the choke, and the included wrench made the process simple.

After the first round, I noticed that the point of impact was slightly lower than with my previous modified choke, but this was easily adjusted for. Overall, the first use was positive, and I felt a noticeable improvement in my shooting.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my shotgun. I’ve used it in various weather conditions, from sunny days to light rain, without any noticeable change in performance.

The black finish has held up well, with only minor signs of wear despite frequent use and cleaning. The choke is easy to clean and maintain; a quick scrub with a brush and solvent after each use keeps it in excellent condition.

Compared to my previous experiences with tighter chokes, the Carlson’s has significantly improved my close-range shooting, providing more forgiveness on slightly off-center shots. It has exceeded my expectations and become my go-to choke for many sporting clays presentations.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder

Specifications

• The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder is designed specifically for Ruger 12-gauge shotguns. Its compatibility ensures a proper fit and optimal performance.
• It features a cylinder choke type, meaning there is no constriction at the muzzle. This allows for the widest possible shot pattern at close range.
• The choke is constructed from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, ensuring exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. This material choice guarantees a long service life even with frequent use.
• The diameter of the choke is 0.74 inches, which is the standard bore diameter for a 12-gauge shotgun. This ensures a smooth and even shot release.
• The choke is finished in a non-reflective black color, providing a tactical and aesthetically pleasing look. It also helps to reduce glare, which can be beneficial in bright shooting conditions.
• It is a non-ported choke, meaning it lacks holes or vents to reduce recoil. This design prioritizes pattern consistency over recoil reduction.
• The package includes a choke wrench, making installation and removal simple and convenient. This eliminates the need to purchase a separate tool.
• It is proudly made in the USA, reflecting a commitment to quality craftsmanship and materials. This also supports domestic manufacturing.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder excels at providing consistent, wide patterns at close ranges, making it ideal for sporting clays. Its cylinder design delivers a more forgiving shot pattern, increasing the chances of hitting targets even with slight aiming errors. This is particularly beneficial on fast-moving, close-range targets where a precise aim can be challenging.

The choke’s strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. The absence of constriction allows the shot to spread quickly, filling the pattern and providing a denser cloud of pellets. This dramatically improves hit probability on close-range presentations. The only minor weakness might be its limited effectiveness at longer distances, where a more constricted choke would be necessary to maintain pattern density.

It meets and even exceeds expectations for its intended purpose, delivering a noticeable improvement in close-range sporting clays performance. The improved hit probability and reduced reliance on pinpoint accuracy make it a valuable tool for shooters of all skill levels.

Design & Ergonomics

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder is designed with a focus on durability and ease of use. The 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction ensures exceptional strength and longevity, while the smooth black finish provides a sleek and professional look. The choke is lightweight and well-balanced, adding minimal weight to the shotgun.

The choke is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to install and remove (thanks to the included wrench). The smooth internal surface minimizes shot deformation, further contributing to pattern consistency. There is virtually no learning curve; simply install the choke and start shooting.

Durability & Maintenance

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder is built to last, thanks to its robust stainless steel construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a simple cleaning after each use to remove powder residue and debris. A quick scrub with a choke tube brush and solvent is typically sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. The stainless steel material is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, minimizing the need for extensive maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder comes with a choke wrench for easy installation and removal. While there aren’t any direct “customization” options for the choke itself, its compatibility with Ruger 12ga shotguns opens up a wide range of customization possibilities for the shotgun itself.

The choke is compatible with all standard Ruger 12ga choke systems, meaning that shooters can easily switch between different chokes depending on the specific shooting scenario. There are no specific accessories designed exclusively for this choke, but it works seamlessly with any aftermarket accessories that are compatible with Ruger 12ga shotguns, such as recoil pads, shell holders, and optic mounts.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder

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Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder?

This choke is perfect for sporting clay shooters who frequently encounter close-range targets and prioritize quick target acquisition and forgiving patterns. It’s also a great choice for beginners who are still developing their aiming skills, as it provides a wider margin for error.

If you primarily shoot trap or long-range sporting clays presentations, this choke may not be the best choice. You would be better served by a more constricted choke that can maintain pattern density at longer distances.

A must-have accessory is a choke tube case or pouch to protect the Carlson’s choke and other chokes when they are not in use. Also, consider a high-quality gun cleaning kit to keep your shotgun and chokes in optimal condition.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder is a well-made, highly effective choke that delivers on its promise of improved close-range performance. The durable stainless steel construction, easy installation, and consistent patterns make it a valuable addition to any Ruger 12ga shotgun owner’s collection.

At a price of $58.49, the value proposition is excellent. The performance benefits and durable construction justify the cost, especially for avid sporting clays shooters.

I would absolutely recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder to anyone looking to enhance their close-range sporting clays performance. It’s a simple, effective upgrade that can make a noticeable difference in your scores. So, if you’re ready to break more clays, grab this choke and hit the range!