The Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Made a Bold First Impression
Turkey hunting. It’s more than just a sport, it’s a dance with nature, a test of patience, and a celebration of spring. To consistently bag those longbeards, you need the right gear, and that’s where the Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube comes in.
For years, I’ve relied on factory chokes, always wondering if I was leaving performance on the table. My problem? Inconsistent patterns and too many birds escaping with a few feathers missing. It was time for an upgrade, and the Carlsons choke promised tighter, denser patterns with the increasingly popular Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) loads.
The Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Immediately, the black finish and extended design spoke of quality and purpose. Picking it up, it felt solid and well-made, a far cry from some of the cheaper aftermarket chokes I’ve handled.
I considered other options like the Kick’s Gobblin’ Thunder and Trulock Precision Hunter, both known for their turkey-specific designs. Ultimately, the Carlsons choke won me over with its reputation for consistent TSS patterns and its construction from 17-4 stainless steel. My first impression was one of quiet confidence – this choke meant business.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place on a crisp April morning in the rolling hills of eastern Oklahoma. The air was thick with the smell of damp earth and blooming wildflowers, the perfect setting to put the Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black through its paces. Paired with my Winchester 1300 12-gauge and some premium TSS loads, I set up targets at 40 yards, the ethical maximum range for turkey hunting in my book.
The choke performed admirably, even in the cool, damp morning air. Patterns were noticeably tighter and denser than with my factory full choke. I felt more confident with each shot, knowing that a significant number of pellets would be impacting the vital zone.
Installation was simple and straightforward; no special tools required. I did notice that the extended design added a small amount of weight to the end of the barrel, but it wasn’t enough to negatively impact handling. After a few shots, I noticed that the choke tube was easier to clean than the factory choke tube.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season, plus numerous patterning sessions, the Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black has proven its worth. The black finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and the occasional accidental bump against a tree. It continues to deliver consistent patterns and instill confidence.
Cleaning is a breeze. A quick scrub with a brush and some solvent keeps it in top condition. Compared to my previous experiences with inconsistent patterns and missed birds, the Carlsons choke has been a game-changer.
The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides great durability, and has resisted rust and corrosion. Compared to other choke tubes I’ve used, this one shows considerably less wear and tear, maintaining a smooth interior surface that doesn’t seem to collect residue like the factory choke tube.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Specifications
The Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is designed specifically for Winchester 12-gauge shotguns. It features an extended design, meaning it protrudes slightly beyond the end of the barrel. This extension aids in pattern development and reduces muzzle jump.
It is constructed from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel, known for its strength and corrosion resistance. The choke is finished in a non-reflective black oxide coating. Its internal constriction is .640″, optimized for use with Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) and other high-density turkey loads.
The choke uses the Winchester Invector choke system, a common thread pattern compatible with many Winchester, Browning (Invector – not Invector Plus or DS), and Mossberg shotguns. This allows for a simple swap between the factory choke and the new Carlsons choke. The .640″ constriction is the key to its tight patterns, focusing the shot for longer-range shots.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black excels at its primary job: delivering tight, consistent patterns with turkey loads, particularly TSS. Its .640″ constriction is ideally suited for maximizing the performance of these dense, small-sized pellets. The result is significantly more pellets in the vital zone at longer ranges.
The choke’s strength lies in its ability to consistently produce kill shots at distances that would have been questionable with my factory choke. A potential weakness could be its tight pattern at close range, potentially leading to a missed bird if the shot is slightly off-center. It meets and exceeds expectations for long range performance and superior pattern density.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black has a simple but effective design. Its 17-4 stainless steel construction provides rugged durability, while the black finish minimizes reflection. The extended design makes it easy to identify and remove.
The choke weighs approximately 2 ounces, adding minimal weight to the shotgun. The extended portion of the choke tube also provides some muzzle protection. There’s practically no learning curve; installation is a breeze, and performance is immediately noticeable.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is built to last. Its corrosion resistance ensures reliable performance, even in harsh weather conditions. Regular cleaning and light lubrication will keep it functioning optimally for years.
Cleaning involves removing the choke tube, scrubbing the inside and outside with a bore brush and solvent, and applying a light coat of gun oil before reinstallation. The choke tube is very easy to maintain and clean with regular solvent and a bore brush. This maintenance procedure will prevent rust and buildup.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black doesn’t come with any accessories, as it’s a standalone product. There aren’t any “customization” options in the traditional sense, but its compatibility with Winchester, Browning (Invector), and Mossberg shotguns allows users to easily swap it between different firearms with the same choke system. This compatibility makes it a versatile investment for multi-gun owners. While no specific accessories are “required,” a good choke tube wrench is recommended for easy installation and removal.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Significantly tighter and denser patterns with TSS loads.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Extended design aids in pattern development and muzzle protection.
- Improved confidence in the field.
Cons
- The tight pattern might be too restrictive at very close ranges (under 20 yards).
- Limited to shotguns with the Winchester Invector choke system.
Who Should Buy Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?
Perfect for: Turkey hunters who want to maximize the performance of their Winchester, Browning (Invector), or Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun, especially when using TSS or other high-density loads. It is also great for those who want to extend their effective range and improve their chances of a clean kill.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who primarily hunt turkeys at very close ranges (under 20 yards) or who own shotguns with different choke systems. If you prefer a more open pattern for close-quarters hunting, this choke might be too restrictive.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good choke tube wrench and a bore brush are recommended for easy installation and maintenance. A quality set of TSS turkey loads will also unleash the choke’s full potential.
Conclusion on Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
The Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is a well-built, high-performing choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter, denser patterns with TSS loads. For the serious turkey hunter using a compatible shotgun, it’s a worthwhile investment that can significantly improve your chances of success. At a price point of $41.35, it offers excellent value for the performance gained.
I would absolutely recommend this choke to anyone looking to upgrade their turkey hunting setup and take their shot patterns to the next level. Don’t leave your success to chance; equip yourself with the Carlsons 38005 TSS Turkey Winchester 12 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black and experience the difference for yourself. It’s time to fill that freezer.