The Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube isn’t just another piece of metal; it’s a specialized tool designed to maximize your turkey hunting success with a 20 gauge Browning Invector Plus shotgun. This extended choke tube promises tighter patterns and greater effective range when using Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) loads, and that immediately piqued my interest.
My relentless pursuit of that elusive longbeard led me to search for a choke tube that could handle the devastating power of TSS shot in my 20 gauge. I was consistently frustrated with inconsistent patterns at longer ranges using factory chokes and standard lead loads. The promise of tighter groupings and increased confidence with TSS was a siren song I couldn’t ignore.
The Carlsons choke tube arrived in simple, functional packaging. The black finish on the 17-4 stainless steel was sleek and professional, and the extended design hinted at the pattern tightening capabilities it advertised. The build quality felt robust, instilling confidence that it could withstand the rigors of hard hunts.
Several other popular turkey chokes were also in the running, like those from competitors such as Briley and Patternmaster. However, the Carlsons offering stood out for its specific tailoring to TSS loads and its reputation for producing consistent results without requiring extensive load experimentation, which is something that I lack time for. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic, hoping it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black was at a local shooting range, patterned against a standard turkey target at 40 yards. I tested it with several brands of 20 gauge TSS loads, specifically those with #9 shot. The weather was clear and cool, providing ideal conditions for patterning.
The initial results were immediately impressive. The patterns were significantly tighter and more consistent than what I had previously achieved with my factory full choke. Pellet distribution was even across the target, with a dense core ensuring lethal hits in the vital areas of the turkey target, and I did not notice any open spots within 30 inches.
Using the choke tube was straightforward, requiring no special tools beyond a standard choke wrench. I immediately felt more confident in my shotgun’s capabilities. There were no initial problems or surprises; the choke tube performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season of use in varied conditions, the Carlsons choke tube has proven to be a reliable and durable performer. It has withstood rain, mud, and the occasional accidental bump against trees without any signs of damage or degradation in performance.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent after each use keeps it in top condition. After many uses, I observed no rust or corrosion. The Carlsons choke tube has consistently outperformed my expectations.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes and aftermarket lead-specific chokes, the Carlsons choke tube paired with TSS offers a marked improvement in pattern density and effective range, making it a superior choice for serious turkey hunters. It has given me confidence that I would not have had before.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Specifications
The Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube is designed specifically for 20 gauge Browning Invector Plus shotguns. Its constriction is .565 inches, optimized for tight patterns with TSS loads. The choke tube is constructed from 17-4 stainless steel for strength and corrosion resistance, it has a black finish.
These specifications are crucial for turkey hunting because the tighter constriction maximizes pattern density at longer ranges, increasing the likelihood of a clean, ethical kill. The durable stainless-steel construction ensures longevity, even with frequent use and exposure to harsh weather conditions. The specific design for Browning Invector Plus shotguns guarantees a secure and reliable fit.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube excels at delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns with TSS loads. This drastically improves the effective range of a 20 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting.
Its primary strength lies in its ability to maintain pattern density at distances beyond 40 yards, providing a significant advantage over standard chokes with lead shot. The only potential weakness is that its extremely tight pattern might be too restrictive for very close-range shots (inside 20 yards), and it is best to adjust if needed. Overall, it exceeds expectations in pattern performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons choke tube boasts a simple, functional design. The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the black finish reduces glare in the field. It weighs slightly more than a flush-mounted choke, but the difference is negligible.
The choke tube is easy to install and remove with a standard choke wrench. There is virtually no learning curve, and it offers a secure fit within the shotgun barrel.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is built to last. Its robust construction can withstand years of use.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a bore brush and solvent. Rust resistance is excellent.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black does not come with any additional accessories beyond the choke tube itself. No customization options are directly available.
However, its compatibility with Browning Invector Plus shotguns means it can be used with aftermarket choke wrenches and storage cases. It’s designed to work seamlessly with a variety of 20 gauge TSS loads, allowing for some degree of load experimentation to find the optimal combination.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: Delivers extremely tight patterns with TSS loads at extended ranges.
- Durable Construction: Made from 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Improved Effective Range: Increases the effective range of a 20 gauge for turkey hunting.
- Easy to Install & Maintain: Simple to install and clean with standard tools.
- Compatible with Browning Invector Plus: Ensures a secure and reliable fit in compatible shotguns.
Cons
- Pattern Too Tight at Close Range: Pattern can be too restrictive for very close shots (under 20 yards).
- Limited Customization: No direct customization options are available.
Who Should Buy Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?
The Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is perfect for serious turkey hunters using a 20 gauge Browning Invector Plus shotgun and Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) loads. This choke tube is ideal for those seeking to maximize the range and effectiveness of their shotgun for turkey hunting.
This product is not for hunters who primarily use lead shot or hunt in areas where very close-range shots are the norm. A must-have accessory is a quality choke wrench for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
The Carlsons 38023 TSS Turkey Browning Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube is a specialized tool that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and increased effective range with TSS loads. Its durable construction and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters.
The price is justified given the significant improvement in performance compared to standard chokes. I would personally recommend it to any turkey hunter looking to maximize the potential of their 20 gauge Browning Invector Plus shotgun and TSS loads. Invest in the Carlsons choke tube, pattern your shotgun, and prepare for a successful turkey season!