The Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black choke tube isn’t just another accessory; it’s a promise of tighter patterns and longer shots. I was immediately intrigued by the Carlson’s reputation and the claim that this choke, especially when paired with Winchester Long Beard Turkey loads, could be a game-changer. This review will delve into my experience with this choke, from unboxing to weeks of hunting and range testing.
My quest for a better turkey choke started after a frustrating season of near misses. The factory choke in my Browning Silver Hunter was simply not cutting it, leading to inconsistent patterns and birds slipping away. I considered several aftermarket options, including those from Patternmaster and Trulock, but ultimately settled on the Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black due to its affordability and targeted design for Long Beard ammunition. The promise of Shot-Lok technology maximizing its potential sealed the deal.
The choke arrived in a simple, no-frills package. I was immediately impressed by the solid, robust construction and the deep black finish. It felt substantial, a stark contrast to the thinner, almost flimsy factory choke. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism; it looked like a quality piece, but would it translate to improved performance in the field?
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black came at a local shooting range. I patterned the choke with Winchester Long Beard #5 shot at 40 yards. The conditions were ideal – clear skies and minimal wind.
The difference between the Carlsons choke and my factory choke was immediately apparent. The Carlsons produced a significantly tighter and more consistent pattern, with a dense core and fewer stray pellets. I noticed a more pronounced thump on the target, indicating better energy transfer. After my first use, I was definitely impressed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple turkey hunts, the Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black has proven its worth. It has held up flawlessly to repeated firing, showing no signs of wear or damage. Durability has been a real strength.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward; a quick scrub with bore cleaner is all it takes to keep it in top condition. Compared to my previous experiences with looser patterns from other chokes, the Carlsons has consistently delivered tighter, more lethal patterns. My confidence in making ethical, long-range shots has increased significantly.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black
Specifications
The Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black is designed for 12-gauge shotguns with the Browning Invector Plus choke system. The choke is constructed from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance. It features a black oxide finish to reduce glare and improve concealment.
The choke’s internal constriction is optimized for use with Winchester Long Beard Turkey loads and their Shot-Lok technology. This specific design promotes tighter patterns and longer effective ranges. These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the choke’s performance with specific loads.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black excels in its primary function: producing dense, consistent patterns at extended ranges. Accuracy and reliability have been exceptional. Its strength lies in its optimized design for Long Beard ammunition; its weakness might be less optimal performance with other turkey loads.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a dedicated turkey choke. The tighter patterns translate to fewer missed birds and cleaner kills.
Design & Ergonomics
The choke’s design is simple and functional. The black oxide finish is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. It screws in and out of the shotgun easily with a choke wrench. The weight is negligible, so it doesn’t affect the shotgun’s balance. There’s virtually no learning curve; installation is simple and quick.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black is built to last. It should endure years of use with proper care. Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black doesn’t come with any additional accessories besides the choke itself. It’s designed to work with the Browning Invector Plus choke system, so compatibility with other brands’ chokes is limited. It can be used with various choke wrenches designed for Invector Plus chokes. No other customizations are applicable to this particular product.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black
Pros
- Significantly tighter patterns compared to factory chokes.
- Optimized for Winchester Long Beard Turkey loads.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Improved effective range for ethical shots.
Cons
- May not perform optimally with non-Long Beard ammunition.
- No included choke wrench (sold separately).
Who Should Buy Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black?
This choke is perfect for turkey hunters using Browning shotguns with the Invector Plus system who want to maximize the performance of Winchester Long Beard Turkey loads. It benefits hunters seeking tighter patterns and longer effective ranges.
This product isn’t ideal for hunters who primarily use other brands of turkey ammunition or those who prefer a more versatile choke that performs well with a wider range of loads. Hunters on a very tight budget might want to explore cheaper options, though the improved performance is generally worth the investment. A must-have accessory is a quality choke wrench for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black
The Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black is a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters using Browning shotguns and Winchester Long Beard ammunition. It delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and improved range. The price of $49.75 is justified by the enhanced performance and durable construction.
I would personally recommend it to any turkey hunter looking to improve their success rate. It’s a simple upgrade that can make a significant difference in the field. Invest in the Carlsons Browning Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Invector-Plus Black and experience the difference a quality choke can make this turkey season!