The Carlsons Cremator WinChoke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlsons Cremator WinChoke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported promises to be a game-changer for 20-gauge shotgun enthusiasts, offering optimized performance at mid to long ranges. Coming from Carlsons Choke Tubes, a name I’ve trusted for years, this ported choke tube set, constructed from 17-4 stainless steel and finished in black, immediately piqued my interest.
Years of hunting waterfowl and upland game have taught me the importance of reliable and consistent patterns. My older choke tubes just weren’t cutting it anymore, especially when trying to reach out to those further birds. The promise of improved pattern density and reduced recoil with the Cremator series was too good to pass up.
Upon unboxing, the Carlsons Cremator chokes felt substantial and well-made. The black finish was even and looked incredibly durable. The porting was clean and precise, giving the chokes a very aggressive and purposeful appearance.
I had been considering the Briley Spectrum extended choke tubes and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck chokes. Ultimately, I chose the Carlsons Cremator due to its reputation for balanced performance across various shot types and its competitive price point. I was hoping for a noticeable improvement in pattern consistency, especially at longer distances, and my first impression was definitely positive.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator WinChoke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local sporting clays range. I ran several boxes of 20-gauge shells through my Beretta A400 Xplor Action, equipped with the Carlsons Cremator mid-range choke. The weather was overcast with a slight breeze, ideal for observing shot patterns.
The difference was immediately noticeable. Recoil felt marginally reduced compared to my factory chokes, and the shot patterns were significantly tighter and more consistent at the ranges I typically encounter when hunting pheasant. There were no jams or issues with installation, making for a smooth transition.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, spanning multiple trips to the range and a weekend waterfowl hunt, the Carlsons Cremator chokes continue to impress. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through them without any signs of wear or performance degradation.
The 17-4 stainless steel construction appears to be extremely durable. Cleaning has been straightforward, with only a quick wipe-down needed after each use to remove powder residue. Compared to my previous chokes, the Carlsons Cremator tubes have proven to be far more reliable and consistent in their performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator WinChoke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
Specifications
- Brand: Carlsons. Carlsons has a proven track record of producing high-quality choke tubes, and their commitment to innovation is evident in the Cremator series.
- Category: Choke Tubes. These chokes are specifically designed to enhance shotgun performance.
- Model: Cremator. The Cremator name suggests the ability to “incinerate” targets with dense, effective shot patterns.
- Gauge: 20 Gauge. This ensures compatibility with 20-gauge shotguns.
- Finish: Black. The black finish not only looks sleek but also provides a layer of corrosion resistance.
- Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel. 17-4 stainless steel offers exceptional strength and durability, ensuring the choke tubes can withstand the rigors of frequent use and exposure to the elements.
- Constriction Type: Mid-Range / Long-Range. This designation indicates the chokes are optimized for engaging targets at moderate to extended distances.
- Chokes Included: 2. Having two chokes provides versatility for different hunting or shooting scenarios.
- Configuration: WinChoke. This configuration guarantees compatibility with shotguns that utilize the WinChoke system.
The use of 17-4 stainless steel is a crucial specification, as it contributes directly to the durability and longevity of the choke tubes. The mid-range/long-range constriction provides versatile use across various shooting disciplines.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator chokes deliver exceptional performance, noticeably improving pattern density and consistency at both mid and long ranges. Recoil reduction, thanks to the porting, is a welcome benefit, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
The chokes excel at tightening shot patterns, providing greater confidence when engaging targets at distances where standard chokes would result in sparse patterns. The only area for potential improvement would be providing even more specific constriction information. The Cremator series delivers consistent performance, meeting and exceeding my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Cremator chokes boast a robust and well-thought-out design. The black finish is aesthetically pleasing and provides corrosion resistance. Installation is simple and straightforward, requiring no special tools.
The chokes feel solid and well-balanced. The porting is precisely machined and contributes to the overall aggressive look of the tubes.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlsons Cremator chokes are built to last. After several weeks of use, there are no signs of wear or corrosion. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick cleaning after each use.
The durable construction of the Carlsons Cremator choke tubes ensures they will withstand years of use. Their simple design makes cleaning quick and easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator WinChoke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported package includes two choke tubes, providing immediate versatility for different shooting distances. While no specific accessories are included, the WinChoke configuration ensures compatibility with a wide range of choke wrenches.
The chokes can be used with various types of ammunition, further enhancing their versatility. The WinChoke compatibility opens the door to use with different aftermarket choke wrenches for easy changes.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator WinChoke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: Significantly tighter and more consistent shot patterns at mid to long ranges.
- Reduced Recoil: Ported design effectively reduces felt recoil for faster follow-up shots.
- Durable Construction: 17-4 Stainless Steel ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion.
- Easy Installation: Simple WinChoke configuration allows for quick and easy installation.
- Versatile Performance: Suitable for a wide range of shooting disciplines, including hunting and sporting clays.
Cons
- Limited Constriction Information: More specific constriction details would be beneficial for fine-tuning performance.
- Price: The price point may be a bit high for budget-conscious shooters, but the quality justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator WinChoke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported?
The Carlsons Cremator WinChoke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported is perfect for hunters seeking to improve their effective range and pattern density. Competitive shooters looking for an edge in sporting clays or trap will also benefit from the enhanced performance.
Beginners might find the benefits less noticeable initially, but the reduced recoil can be advantageous. Those who primarily shoot at very close ranges may not fully utilize the chokes’ capabilities. A quality choke wrench is a must-have accessory for easy choke tube changes.
Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator WinChoke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
The Carlsons Cremator WinChoke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported is an excellent investment for any serious 20-gauge shooter. The enhanced pattern density and reduced recoil make it a worthwhile upgrade.
The price is justified by the noticeable performance improvements and the durability of the 17-4 stainless steel construction. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Carlsons Cremator chokes to anyone looking to improve their shotgun’s performance. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the Carlsons difference!