The JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless choke tubes promise tighter patterns and longer shots, but few have piqued my interest quite like the JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560. Designed specifically for turkey hunting, it claims to deliver extreme patterns at extended ranges, a proposition any serious turkey hunter can appreciate. I was seeking a choke tube that could consistently deliver dense, lethal patterns beyond the typical 30-yard mark, especially in the dense foliage of the Southeast where I frequently hunt.
The JEBS Headhunter arrived in simple, functional packaging, a refreshing change from some of the over-the-top displays I’ve encountered. Upon opening it, I was immediately struck by the robust feel of the tube and the clean, matte finish. The construction seemed solid, promising durability in the field.
I had been considering the Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke tube and the Patternmaster Code Black Turkey choke, both popular options known for their tight patterns. I ultimately chose the JEBS Headhunter because of JEBS Chokes’s reputation for innovative bore designs and the specific claim of improved “shot & wad cup” separation, a key factor in pattern density. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 looked and felt the part, but the proof would be in the pattern.
Real-World Testing: Putting JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 was the local shooting range, specifically a 50-yard range equipped with paper targets. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze – ideal conditions for patterning. Installation was straightforward; the choke tube threaded smoothly into my Benelli Crio barrel.
The first few shots were impressive. At 40 yards, the pattern was significantly tighter than my factory choke, with a noticeable concentration of pellets in the vital zone. There were no obvious holes or inconsistencies, suggesting a consistent and even spread. I was particularly impressed with how little the point of impact shifted compared to my point of aim, a pleasant surprise.
Extended Use & Reliability
After the range, the real test began: weeks of turkey hunting in the varied terrains of Georgia and Alabama. The JEBS Headhunter saw action in everything from open fields to thick hardwood bottoms. It has consistently delivered exceptional patterns, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
The choke tube has held up remarkably well to the rigors of hunting. I have yet to notice any significant wear or tear, even after repeated cleanings. Maintenance is simple: a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent after each use keeps it in top condition. The JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 has noticeably outperformed any of the other aftermarket choke tubes I’ve used for my Benelli 20 gauge in the past, providing consistently tighter patterns at extended distances.
Breaking Down the Features of JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560
Specifications
- Caliber: 20 Gauge. This choke tube is designed specifically for 20-gauge shotguns, ensuring optimal performance with this popular bore size.
- Shotgun Compatibility: Benelli Crio/Crio Plus. This JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 is compatible with Benelli shotguns that utilize the Crio and Crio Plus choke tube system.
- Constriction: .560″. This constriction is optimized for turkey hunting, providing a very tight pattern for increased range and lethality.
- Material: High-quality steel. Constructed from high-quality steel, ensuring durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Finish: Matte. The matte finish reduces glare and provides a non-reflective surface, crucial for avoiding spooking game.
- Internal Design: Patented “multi-staged” interior bore design. This design enhances shot & wad cup separation, increasing pattern density and accuracy.
These specifications contribute directly to the choke tube’s performance. The .560″ constriction and the multi-staged interior bore design are specifically engineered to create tighter patterns at longer distances, essential for successful turkey hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 excels in its primary function: delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns. Its accuracy is outstanding, allowing for confident shots at ranges that would be questionable with a standard choke tube. It consistently puts a high percentage of pellets in the vital zone of a turkey target at 40 yards and beyond.
The only slight weakness I’ve observed is that it can be too tight for very close shots (inside 20 yards), potentially resulting in a pattern that’s too small and unforgiving. Overall, it far exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The JEBS Headhunter features a simple, functional design. The matte finish is aesthetically pleasing and practical, reducing glare in the field. The choke tube threads smoothly into the barrel and is easy to install and remove.
The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable burden to the shotgun. The flush fit minimizes snagging on brush or clothing.
Durability & Maintenance
The JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 is built to last. The high-quality steel construction ensures excellent resistance to wear and corrosion. Regular cleaning is all that’s required to keep it in top condition.
Given the robust construction, I expect it to last for many seasons of hard use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The JEBS Headhunter is primarily a standalone product, designed to function without additional accessories. There are no specific customization options directly associated with the choke tube itself. However, it’s compatible with various aftermarket choke tube wrenches designed for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus systems, offering a more comfortable and secure grip during installation and removal. Be sure to use bold and italic text where necessary to emphasize important points.
Pros and Cons of JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560
Pros
- Extremely Tight Patterns: Delivers exceptional pattern density at extended ranges (40+ yards), increasing the odds of a clean kill.
- High-Quality Construction: Made from durable steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Threads smoothly into compatible Benelli Crio barrels.
- Improved Shot & Wad Separation: JEBS patented bore design contributes to pattern consistency.
- Matte Finish: Reduces glare and minimizes spooking game.
Cons
- Too Tight for Very Close Shots: Pattern may be too concentrated for shots inside 20 yards.
- Specialized Use: Primarily designed for turkey hunting; may not be ideal for other game birds.
Who Should Buy JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560?
The JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand maximum range and pattern density from their 20-gauge Benelli Crio shotguns. It’s an excellent choice for hunters who frequently encounter wary birds or hunt in areas where longer shots are often necessary.
Hunters who primarily hunt other game birds or those who prefer a more open pattern for close-range turkey hunting might want to skip this product. A hunter who prefers a more versatile choke tube might not find this product to be best suited for their needs.
A quality choke tube wrench designed for Benelli Crio systems is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560
The JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 is a specialized tool that excels at its intended purpose: delivering devastatingly tight patterns for turkey hunting at extended ranges. The price of $79.99 is justified by the superior performance and quality construction. It is a significant upgrade over factory choke tubes and a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the JEBS Headhunter to anyone seeking to maximize the effective range and lethality of their 20-gauge Benelli Crio shotgun for turkey hunting. If you’re tired of missed opportunities due to marginal patterns, this choke tube is a game-changer. Step up your turkey hunting game today – invest in a JEBS Headhunter Choke Tube 20 ga. Benelli Crio Matte .560 and experience the difference for yourself!
