The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve relied on a variety of chokes for my Remington 12 gauge, mostly sticking with the factory options. When waterfowl season approached, I decided it was time for an upgrade. The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black promised tighter patterns and greater consistency, a siren song for any serious waterfowl hunter.
I was constantly frustrated by inconsistent patterns with my factory chokes. Too often, I saw flyers that crippled birds or caused me to miss entirely. I needed a choke that could deliver consistent, dense patterns at typical waterfowl ranges.
The choke arrived in a simple but effective package. Picking it up, the first thing I noticed was the weight and the smooth, black finish. It felt substantial, like a quality piece of gear, promising longevity and performance. This contrasted sharply with the lightweight, almost flimsy feel of some cheaper aftermarket chokes I’d handled. I was immediately impressed.
I considered a Briley choke, known for their precision, and a Patternmaster, known for its unique wad-stripping design. Ultimately, the Carlsons choke won out because of its reputation for consistent patterns, durable 17-4 stainless steel construction, and a price point that didn’t break the bank. It seemed to offer the best balance of quality and value.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality seemed excellent, and the knurled end gave it a professional, functional look. I was eager to get it to the range and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black was at my local sporting clays range. This provided a controlled environment to test its pattern density and consistency before taking it into the field. I shot a variety of loads, including both steel and lead shot, to get a comprehensive understanding of its performance.
The weather was typical for early fall: slightly damp with a light breeze. Even in these conditions, the choke performed admirably. It was easy to install and remove, thanks to the well-designed knurling. After just a few rounds, I could see a noticeable improvement in pattern density compared to my previous choke.
The most surprising thing was how much tighter the patterns were. I had to adjust my lead slightly to compensate, but the consistent breaks on clays were undeniable. There were no unexpected gaps or flyers.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, both at the range and in the duck blind, the Carlsons choke has proven to be remarkably reliable. It has consistently delivered tight, even patterns, leading to cleaner kills and fewer cripples. The 17-4 stainless steel construction has held up well to the rigors of waterfowl hunting.
I’ve hunted in various conditions, from pouring rain to freezing temperatures, and the choke has performed flawlessly in each. There are no signs of rust or corrosion. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe down with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition.
This choke significantly outperforms the factory chokes I previously used. The difference in pattern consistency is night and day. The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke has given me a noticeable boost in confidence in the field, knowing my gun is performing at its best.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Specifications
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is specifically designed for Remington 12 gauge shotguns. It’s constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, known for its exceptional strength and corrosion resistance. The mid-range constriction is ideal for typical waterfowl hunting distances.
This choke features an extended design, protruding slightly beyond the end of the barrel. This makes it easier to grip for quick changes. Each choke is laser-marked with the constriction size, making it easy to identify in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this choke is to improve pattern density and consistency at mid-range distances. It achieves this through a 25% longer parallel section, which helps to stabilize the shot column as it exits the barrel. In my experience, it performs this task exceptionally well.
Its strength lies in its ability to deliver consistently tight patterns, reducing the number of missed shots and crippling shots. One potential weakness is that the “mid-range” constriction may not be ideal for extremely close-range shots. However, for the majority of waterfowl hunting situations, it is perfectly suited. It exceeds my expectations for a choke in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl choke features a simple, functional design. The 17-4 stainless steel construction gives it a robust feel, and the black finish provides a sleek, non-reflective look. The extended design, combined with the knurled end, makes it easy to install and remove, even with gloved hands.
The choke is easy to install with a standard choke tube wrench. There is virtually no learning curve. Its simple and effective design makes it a pleasure to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures exceptional durability. This choke is built to withstand the harsh conditions of waterfowl hunting. With proper care, it should last for many seasons.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s required to keep it in optimal condition. The corrosion-resistant properties of the 17-4 stainless steel minimize the risk of rust and pitting.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black does not come with any specific accessories beyond its packaging. However, it is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Remington 12 gauge shotguns. There are no specific customization options available for this particular choke.
It seamlessly integrates with standard Remington 12 gauge barrels. Its black finish complements most shotgun finishes. While there aren’t extensive customization options, the choke’s performance speaks for itself.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Consistently tight patterns improve hit probability.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures longevity.
- Easy to install and remove with the knurled end.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value.
- Noticeably improves pattern density compared to factory chokes.
Cons
- Mid-range constriction might not be ideal for extremely close-range shots.
- No included choke tube wrench.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?
This choke is perfect for waterfowl hunters seeking improved pattern density and consistency at typical hunting distances. It is also excellent for sporting clays enthusiasts looking to tighten their groupings. Anyone who wants a durable, reliable, and affordable choke for their Remington 12 gauge should consider this product.
Those who primarily hunt in very tight quarters, requiring a more open choke, may want to consider a different option. Also, individuals who are unwilling to perform basic maintenance, such as cleaning, should look elsewhere. No matter the product, proper care will only make it last.
A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal. Consider purchasing a high-quality bore cleaning kit to maintain the choke’s performance and longevity.
Conclusion on Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is an excellent upgrade for any Remington 12 gauge shotgun. Its 17-4 stainless steel construction, combined with its ability to deliver consistently tight patterns, makes it a valuable addition to any hunter’s or shooter’s gear. At a price of $41.99, it offers exceptional value.
The price is absolutely justified considering the noticeable improvement in performance and the durability of the materials. I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke to anyone looking to enhance their shotgun’s capabilities. Don’t settle for inconsistent patterns; upgrade to the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke and experience the difference for yourself!