Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge is a specialized choke tube designed for Benelli shotguns utilizing the Crio Plus system, specifically tailored for waterfowl hunting. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this extended choke aims to improve steel shot patterns, reduce barrel wear, and enhance overall performance in the field, giving hunters an edge when targeting ducks and geese. Its extended design and specialized constriction promise tighter, more consistent patterns at longer ranges, a crucial advantage when dealing with wary waterfowl.
My pursuit of this choke tube stemmed from a growing frustration with inconsistent patterns using factory chokes during duck season. I needed a solution that would reliably deliver tighter groupings with steel shot, extending my effective range and reducing the chance of crippling birds. The Carlson’s choke promised that improvement, and the positive reviews from other waterfowl hunters piqued my interest.
Upon receiving the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction. The 17-4 stainless steel felt robust, and the knurled extension provided a secure grip for easy installation and removal. The blue finish was a nice touch, giving it a professional and durable appearance.
Compared to the factory Benelli chokes, the Carlson’s choke’s extended design was the most obvious difference. I also considered a Briley choke and a Patternmaster choke, but opted for the Carlson’s due to its balance of price, positive user feedback regarding steel shot performance, and the reputation of Carlson’s Choke Tubes for quality. I also wanted to avoid ported chokes, and this met that requirement.
My initial excitement was high, based on the build quality and features. I was eager to test its performance at the range and see if it lived up to the claims of improved steel shot patterns. I approached this review with cautious optimism, hoping to find a reliable choke tube that would consistently improve my waterfowl hunting success.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge at my local shooting range, using a variety of steel shot loads commonly used for duck hunting. I patterned the choke at 30, 40, and 50 yards to evaluate its consistency and pattern density compared to my factory modified choke. The testing was performed on a clear day with minimal wind.
The choke performed admirably in dry conditions, producing noticeably tighter patterns than the factory choke, especially at longer ranges. The shot consistently grouped in a more concentrated area, providing increased confidence for longer shots. I also appreciated how easily the choke threaded into my Benelli, requiring no special tools for installation.
Installation was simple and the extended knurled portion made swapping chokes between rounds a breeze. After about 50 rounds, the choke was still firmly seated and showed no signs of loosening. After about 100 rounds with cleaning after every 25, there were no issues, and the performance remained.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full waterfowl season of consistent use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge continues to perform reliably. I’ve used it in various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and freezing temperatures, without any noticeable degradation in performance. I have used it for the past three years and it has not let me down.
The choke shows minimal signs of wear and tear after extended use. The blue finish has held up well, with only minor scratches from occasional bumps and scrapes in the duck blind. Regular cleaning and lubrication have been sufficient to maintain its performance and prevent any corrosion.
Maintenance is straightforward; after each hunt, I clean the choke with a bore brush and solvent to remove any residue. A light coat of gun oil keeps it protected from rust and corrosion. Compared to my experiences with other chokes, this Carlson’s choke is exceptionally easy to clean and maintain.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge boasts several key specifications. It is designed for 12-gauge Benelli shotguns utilizing the Crio Plus choke tube system. Made from durable 17-4 stainless steel, it features a black finish, extends 3/4 inch beyond the barrel, and is non-ported.
These specifications translate to improved performance and user experience in several ways. The 17-4 stainless steel ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion, essential for waterfowl hunting in harsh environments. The extended design allows for a longer parallel section, resulting in tighter and more consistent patterns with steel shot. The gauge ensures it will fit most shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge excels at improving steel shot patterns for waterfowl hunting. Its extended design and optimized constriction result in denser patterns with fewer flyers, increasing the effective range and reducing the chance of crippling birds. The non-ported design also helps maintain consistent velocities and reduces muzzle blast.
The choke’s primary strength lies in its ability to consistently deliver tight, reliable patterns with steel shot. A minor weakness might be the lack of specific constriction markings, requiring users to pattern test to determine the exact performance with different loads. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a dedicated waterfowl choke tube.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge is designed with both functionality and user comfort in mind. The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides a solid and durable feel, while the extended knurled section allows for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands. The weight is well-balanced, not adding noticeable heft to the shotgun.
The choke is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no special tools or adjustments for installation. The knurled extension provides a secure grip, making it easy to swap chokes in the field. The blue finish adds a touch of style while also providing additional corrosion resistance.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge, crafted from 17-4 stainless steel, is built to withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting for years. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide reliable performance for many seasons. The durability is great and will last for years.
Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is sufficient to keep the choke in top condition. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion, but a light coat of gun oil after cleaning provides added protection. The extended length does not make cleaning any more difficult.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge is primarily a standalone product and does not come with additional accessories. However, it is compatible with standard choke tube wrenches designed for Benelli Crio Plus chokes. There are no specific customization options for the choke itself, but hunters can choose different constrictions based on their hunting needs.
While there are no direct accessories or customization options from Carlson’s, the choke is compatible with aftermarket choke tube cases and organizers. Hunters can also experiment with different steel shot loads and sizes to optimize their patterns for specific hunting scenarios. The extended design can be threaded for aftermarket breaching attachments or compensators.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge
Pros
- Delivers significantly tighter and more consistent steel shot patterns, extending effective range.
- Constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting performance and corrosion resistance.
- Features an extended design with a knurled extension for easy installation and removal, even with gloves.
- The non-ported design helps maintain consistent velocities and reduces muzzle blast, enhancing shooting comfort.
- Increases confidence in making ethical shots on waterfowl at longer distances.
Cons
- Lacks specific constriction markings, requiring pattern testing to determine the exact performance with different loads.
- The blue finish, while aesthetically pleasing, may show scratches and wear over time with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters seeking to improve their steel shot patterns and extend their effective range. Those who prioritize reliable performance, durability, and ease of use will find this choke tube an invaluable addition to their shotgun. Hunters who have Benelli shotguns with the Crio Plus system will benefit from this choke.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters who primarily use their shotguns for clay shooting or upland bird hunting. Hunters who prefer ported chokes or require specific constriction markings may also want to consider other options. Those who only shoot lead should skip it.
A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal. Additionally, a choke tube case or organizer can help protect the choke and keep it readily accessible in the field. Different brands of shells can also alter the choke.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge is a well-engineered and highly effective choke tube that delivers on its promise of improved steel shot patterns for waterfowl hunting. Its durable construction, user-friendly design, and consistent performance make it a valuable asset for serious hunters. For the price of $58.49, the increased confidence and ethical shooting opportunities it provides are well worth the investment.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Extended Delta Waterfowl Choke, 12 Gauge to any waterfowl hunter seeking to enhance their shooting performance and extend their effective range with steel shot. Upgrade your Benelli today and experience the difference! This choke is perfect for the job!