The Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve spent over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear. Shotgun chokes might seem like a small piece of the puzzle, but they significantly impact performance, especially in hunting scenarios. The Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black immediately caught my eye for its promise of improved patterns at extended ranges.
My hunt for the perfect choke stemmed from frustrating experiences with inconsistent patterns when targeting waterfowl at longer distances. I needed a choke that could deliver tight, consistent groupings, maximizing my chances of a clean, ethical shot. The Carlsons Cremator claimed to offer just that, with its innovative Triple Shot Technology (TST).
Unboxing the Carlsons Cremator revealed a robust, well-machined choke tube with a clean black finish. The 17-4 stainless steel felt solid and durable, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand harsh conditions. It had a quality feel that similar aftermarket chokes sometimes lack.
I had previously used a Briley extended choke and a Patternmaster Code Black Duck choke. The Briley offered excellent construction but lacked the aggressive pattern tightening I desired for longer shots. The Patternmaster, while effective at short to medium ranges, sometimes produced inconsistent results beyond 40 yards. My hope was that the Carlsons Cremator, with its TST design, would offer a better balance of pattern density and consistency at longer ranges.
My initial impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. The build quality and design seemed promising. I was eager to put the Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Carlsons Cremator at a local sporting clays range. I focused on simulating longer-range waterfowl shots. The weather was mild, but a slight crosswind presented a realistic challenge.
The choke was surprisingly easy to install without a wrench, a definite plus for quick changes in the field. From the first few shots, the pattern seemed noticeably tighter compared to my factory choke. I felt a satisfying confirmation that I made the right decision.
The only initial issue I noticed was a slightly louder report compared to my factory choke. This wasn’t a major concern, but something to be aware of for noise-sensitive hunters.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Carlsons Cremator during waterfowl season, it has proven to be a reliable performer. The 17-4 stainless steel construction has held up extremely well. I haven’t observed any signs of rust or corrosion, despite exposure to wet and muddy conditions.
Maintaining the choke is simple. A quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each hunting trip keeps it in top condition. I haven’t experienced any issues with the choke loosening during firing.
Compared to my previous experiences, the Carlsons Cremator has consistently delivered tighter and more consistent patterns at longer ranges. This has noticeably improved my hit rate on ducks and geese, making it a valuable addition to my hunting setup. I’d describe the difference as significant, outperforming the other chokes I mentioned.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Specifications
The Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns with the Optima HP choke system. It’s constructed from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel for exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. The “Long Range” designation indicates a tighter constriction intended for shots at extended distances.
- Gauge: 12 Gauge, ensuring compatibility with standard 12-gauge shotguns.
- Choke System: Optima HP, designed to fit Beretta Optima HP threaded barrels.
- Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel, providing excellent strength and resistance to corrosion.
- Constriction: Long Range, offering a tighter pattern for extended-distance shooting.
- Finish: Black, providing a non-reflective surface and added corrosion protection.
- Technology: Triple Shot Technology (TST), featuring graduated rings for improved pattern density.
- Installation: Wrench-less, allowing for quick and easy installation and removal.
These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the choke’s performance and suitability for different hunting or shooting scenarios. The 17-4 stainless steel ensures longevity, while the Long Range constriction and TST technology work together to deliver tighter, more consistent patterns at extended distances.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black excels at its primary job: delivering dense and consistent patterns at longer ranges. I consistently achieve tighter groupings compared to using a factory choke or a more open aftermarket choke. This translates to increased confidence and a higher success rate in the field.
The strengths of this choke lie in its ability to maintain pattern density at distances where other chokes begin to spread excessively. The TST technology seems to effectively reduce pellet deformation and minimize flyers. One weakness is that the “Long Range” constriction can be too tight for very close-range shots.
The Carlsons Cremator has exceeded my expectations in terms of pattern density and consistency at extended ranges. This improvement justified the purchase.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Cremator features a simple, functional design. The 17-4 stainless steel construction feels robust and durable. The black finish provides a non-reflective surface, which is beneficial in hunting situations.
Installation and removal are effortless thanks to the wrench-less design. This feature is particularly useful in the field when quick choke changes are necessary. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction suggests excellent longevity. After several months of use in various weather conditions, the choke shows no signs of wear or corrosion. I expect it to last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use is sufficient to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black doesn’t come with any included accessories, as it’s a standalone choke tube. There are no specific customization options available for the choke itself.
However, it’s compatible with any 12-gauge shotgun that uses the Beretta Optima HP choke system. This allows users to experiment with different loads and shell types to optimize performance. Important note: As the product description states, this specific choke “cannot be used with any steel shot larger than #2.”
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges.
- Constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Features Triple Shot Technology (TST) for reduced pellet deformation and fewer flyers.
- Offers wrench-less installation and removal for quick and easy choke changes.
- The black finish reduces glare, beneficial for hunting applications.
Cons
- The “Long Range” constriction may be too tight for very close-range shots.
- Louder report compared to factory chokes (minor drawback).
- Cannot be used with steel shot larger than #2 (critical limitation for some waterfowl hunters).
Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?
The Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is perfect for waterfowl hunters who frequently take shots at longer ranges (40 yards and beyond). It is beneficial for sporting clays shooters looking to improve their scores on distant targets. Anyone who owns a 12-gauge shotgun with the Optima HP choke system and wants to maximize pattern density at extended distances should consider this choke.
This product might not be suitable for hunters who primarily shoot at very close ranges (inside 30 yards). A more open choke would be a better choice in those situations. It’s also unsuitable for those who use steel shot larger than #2.
A must-have accessory is a choke tube case to protect the Carlsons Cremator when not in use.
Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
The Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is a well-designed and effective choke tube that delivers on its promise of improved patterns at extended ranges. The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the Triple Shot Technology helps to minimize pellet deformation and maximize pattern density. I found it a welcome addition to my shotgun for ethical long-range shots.
The price of $50.10 is justified by the improved performance and the quality of construction. It is competitively priced compared to other premium choke tubes on the market.
I would personally recommend the Carlsons Cremator to any waterfowl hunter or sporting clays shooter looking to enhance their shotgun’s performance at longer distances. Just remember that this choke is designed for long-range shots with smaller steel shot. Don’t hesitate—improve your shot today!