Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS Review

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS Made a Bold First Impression

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS choke tube isn’t the sexiest piece of gear, but it’s a vital component for any shotgun enthusiast looking to maximize their gun’s potential. Beretta has a reputation for quality, and I was eager to see if this choke lived up to it. My journey began with a quest for tighter patterns at longer ranges when dove hunting in West Texas, where those speedy little birds demanded precision.

For years, I’d been struggling with inconsistent patterns from my factory choke. It led to frustrating misses and a growing sense that my shotgun wasn’t performing to its full potential. The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS promised tighter, more consistent patterns, and the Beretta name instilled confidence. I debated between this and a Carlson’s choke and a Briley choke. Ultimately, the Beretta‘s reputation for quality and seamless integration with my Beretta shotgun swayed my decision.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the choke’s solid feel and smooth, nickel-alloy finish. It felt substantial and well-made, a stark contrast to some of the cheaper, rougher chokes I’d encountered in the past. My initial impression was excitement mixed with a touch of anticipation, hoping that this seemingly simple piece of metal would finally solve my pattern woes.

Real-World Testing: Putting Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS was at my local sporting clays range. I wanted a controlled environment to assess its performance before taking it into the field. The weather was typical for early spring – a bit breezy with clear skies.

I immediately noticed a difference in my shot patterns. The clays were breaking more consistently and at greater distances. Previously, I’d often see a lot of chipped clays, but with the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS, the breaks were much cleaner and more decisive. I had no issues installing or removing the choke; it threaded smoothly and seated perfectly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS has proven to be a reliable and durable performer. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from dry, dusty upland fields to damp, foggy duck blinds. The nickel-alloy coating has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of rust or corrosion.

Cleaning is a breeze. A quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent, and it’s good to go. Compared to my previous experiences with less durable chokes, the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS has significantly outperformed them in both pattern consistency and overall longevity. It’s delivered on its promise of tighter patterns, leading to more successful hunts and improved scores at the range.

Breaking Down the Features of Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS

Specifications

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS is a 12-gauge choke tube designed for Beretta shotguns with the Optima-Choke HP system. It is constructed from high-strength steel for durability and finished with a nickel-alloy coating for corrosion resistance. This choke is a full choke, designed to provide the tightest patterns at longer ranges.

The choke’s purpose is to constrict the shot string as it exits the barrel, resulting in a denser pattern at the target. This is crucial for hunting scenarios where longer shots are required, or for competitive shooting where consistent breaks are essential. The high-strength steel ensures the choke can withstand the pressures of repeated firing, even with steel shot.

Performance & Functionality

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS excels in its primary function: delivering tight, consistent shot patterns. At 40 yards, I consistently achieve patterns that cover a 30-inch circle, with a dense core that ensures lethal hits on game birds. The choke performs exceptionally well with both lead and steel shot, making it a versatile option for various hunting and shooting disciplines.

The only slight drawback is that the very tight pattern may not be ideal for close-range shots, where a more open choke would be more forgiving. The choke met my expectations and then some, providing a noticeable improvement in my shooting performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS features a simple, functional design. The nickel-alloy finish not only provides corrosion resistance but also gives it a sleek, professional look. Installation and removal are straightforward, requiring no special tools beyond a standard choke wrench.

The choke’s weight is negligible, adding no noticeable bulk to the shotgun. There is virtually no learning curve to use the choke. Simply install it, pattern your shotgun, and start shooting.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its high-strength steel construction and nickel-alloy coating, the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS is built to last. As mentioned before, after months of use in various conditions, it shows no signs of wear or corrosion. Regular cleaning after each use is essential to prevent buildup and maintain optimal performance.

This choke is expected to last for many years with proper care. The design doesn’t lend itself to repair, but the robust construction minimizes the likelihood of needing it.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS doesn’t come with any accessories beyond its basic packaging. However, it is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Optima-Choke HP tubes. While there aren’t specific “customization options” in the traditional sense, users can experiment with different loads and shot sizes to fine-tune their patterns for specific applications.

The choke is designed to integrate seamlessly with Beretta shotguns that utilize the Optima-Choke HP system. It’s worth noting that it may not be compatible with chokes from other brands or shotguns with different threading systems.

Pros and Cons of Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS

Pros

  • Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent shot patterns.
  • Durable high-strength steel construction with a corrosion-resistant nickel-alloy finish.
  • Easy to install and remove.
  • Versatile performance with both lead and steel shot.
  • Noticeably improves shooting performance at longer ranges.

Cons

  • The very tight pattern may not be ideal for close-range shots.
  • Only compatible with Beretta shotguns featuring the Optima-Choke HP system.


Who Should Buy Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS?

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS is perfect for hunters who frequently take long-range shots at game birds, such as waterfowl or turkeys. It’s also a great choice for competitive shooters looking to maximize their scores in trap, skeet, or sporting clays events where longer shots are common. Anyone using a Beretta shotgun with the Optima-Choke HP system who is seeking tighter, more consistent patterns will benefit from this choke.

Those who primarily hunt in dense cover or shoot at very close ranges should skip this product. A more open choke, such as an improved cylinder or skeet choke, would be more suitable for those situations. A must-have accessory is a quality choke wrench for easy installation and removal. Experimenting with different loads to find the optimal combination for your shotgun and shooting style is recommended.

Conclusion on Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS is a well-made, durable, and highly effective choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter, more consistent patterns. At a price of $31.99, it represents an excellent value for anyone seeking to improve their shotgun’s performance. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any Beretta shotgun owner looking to maximize their range and accuracy.

If you are struggling with inconsistent patterns or simply want to squeeze every last bit of performance out of your Beretta shotgun, the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 FULL FLS is a worthwhile investment. It transformed my dove hunting experience, and I’m confident it can do the same for you. Get yours today and experience the difference a quality choke can make!


Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top