The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube set promises versatility and performance for Retay shotgun owners targeting waterfowl. This isn’t just another set of chokes; it’s a purpose-built system designed for close, mid, and long-range engagements in the demanding environments of waterfowl hunting. The fact that Carlsons chose 17-4 stainless steel speaks volumes about their commitment to durability.
My pursuit of this particular choke set stemmed from a growing frustration with inconsistent patterns when switching between different hunting scenarios. I needed a reliable, easy-to-manage system that could adapt to varying distances without sacrificing pattern density or consistency. I’d read countless forum posts praising Carlsons choke tubes, and the Delta Waterfowl designation signaled a product designed with serious waterfowl hunters in mind.
Unboxing the choke tubes, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The black finish on the 17-4 stainless steel gave them a tactical, no-nonsense look. The weight felt substantial, instilling confidence in their ability to withstand the rigors of repeated firing and harsh weather. The thread quality was impeccable, promising a snug and secure fit in my Retay shotgun.
I considered several other choke tube sets, including some from Briley and Patternmaster. Ultimately, the Carlsons set won out because of its specific focus on waterfowl hunting and the inclusion of close, mid, and long-range options in a single, coordinated package. Plus, the Delta Waterfowl endorsement gave me the assurance that these chokes had been thoroughly tested and approved by experienced hunters. My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to see if these chokes could live up to the hype and transform my waterfowl hunting success.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black took place on a frigid morning in the flooded timber of Arkansas. The air was thick with mist, and the temperature hovered just above freezing. I started with the close-range choke, anticipating ducks dropping in tight over the decoys.
The close-range choke performed admirably, delivering dense, even patterns at distances of 20-30 yards. Pellet distribution was consistent, resulting in clean, ethical kills on mallards and wood ducks. I found the chokes easy to install and remove using a standard choke tube wrench. The thread engagement was smooth and secure.
As the morning progressed and the ducks began to flare at longer distances, I switched to the mid-range choke. This transition was seamless, and the mid-range choke proved equally effective, extending my effective range to 40 yards. I experienced no issues with pattern blow-out or inconsistent pellet spread. The chokes performed flawlessly under challenging conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use throughout the waterfowl season, the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tubes have proven exceptionally durable. There are no signs of wear or corrosion despite frequent exposure to moisture and mud. The black finish remains intact, showing only minor cosmetic scratches.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. I simply remove the chokes after each hunt, clean them with a bore brush and solvent, and lightly oil the threads before re-installing. The 17-4 stainless steel construction resists rust and corrosion, minimizing the need for excessive maintenance. Compared to previous aftermarket chokes I’ve used, the Carlsons set has significantly outperformed them in terms of pattern consistency and overall reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Specifications
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube set is specifically designed for Retay 12-gauge shotguns. The set includes three chokes: close-range (Improved Cylinder), mid-range (Modified), and long-range (Full). The chokes are constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion.
The black finish provides a non-reflective surface, minimizing glare and maximizing concealment in the field. Each choke is clearly marked with its constriction type for easy identification. The chokes are designed to improve pattern density and consistency at various distances, optimizing performance for different waterfowl hunting scenarios. This translates to more ethical kills and fewer wounded birds.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tubes excel in their primary function: improving shotgun patterns. The close-range choke delivers tight, consistent patterns at short distances, ideal for decoying birds over water or in timber. The mid-range choke offers a balanced pattern for moderate distances, perfect for open-field hunting. The long-range choke tightens the pattern further, extending the effective range for those challenging shots on birds that flare at the last moment.
The strengths of this set lie in its versatility and reliability. The chokes are easy to switch out in the field, allowing hunters to adapt to changing hunting conditions. The only minor improvement I could suggest is the inclusion of a small choke tube wrench in the set, although most hunters already own one. Overall, the choke tube set meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is exceptional. The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides a solid, durable feel. The threads are precisely cut, ensuring a secure and wobble-free fit.
The chokes are easy to grip and manipulate, even with gloved hands. There is no noticeable learning curve associated with using these chokes. They are intuitive and straightforward to install and remove.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures that these chokes will last for many seasons of hard use. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are all that’s needed to maintain their performance. The black finish is resistant to chipping and scratching, further enhancing their durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black set comes with three chokes, covering a wide range of hunting distances. While there are no additional accessories included in the set, these chokes are compatible with standard choke tube wrenches. Furthermore, they can be used with various types of shotgun ammunition, allowing for customization based on personal preference and hunting conditions. Consider experimenting with different shot sizes and loads to find the optimal combination for each choke.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: Delivers tighter, more consistent patterns at all ranges.
- Versatility: Three chokes cover close, mid, and long-range hunting scenarios.
- Durability: 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Use: Simple installation and removal with a standard choke tube wrench.
- Ethical Kills: Increases effective range, resulting in cleaner, more humane kills.
Cons
- Wrench Not Included: A choke tube wrench is required for installation and removal (not included).
- Black Finish Shows Scratches: The black finish may show minor scratches over time with use.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube set is perfect for dedicated waterfowl hunters who own a Retay 12-gauge shotgun. It is ideal for hunters who frequently encounter varying shooting distances and require a versatile choke system. This set is also a great choice for hunters who prioritize durability and reliability in their gear.
This product might not be the best choice for hunters who primarily hunt over very short distances or who own a different brand of shotgun. Also, hunters who prefer a single, fixed choke may not appreciate the flexibility offered by this set. A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench. Consider purchasing a choke tube case to protect your investment.
Conclusion on Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Overall, the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube set is an excellent investment for serious waterfowl hunters. The improved pattern density and versatility it offers justifies its price. I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube set to any Retay 12-gauge owner looking to improve their shooting performance in the field.
If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and missed opportunities, then it’s time to upgrade your choke tubes. Don’t let another bird fly away – invest in the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Retay 12 Gauge Close-Range/Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black today!