The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel choke tube promises enhanced patterns and improved performance for skeet shooters using Beretta or Benelli shotguns. It’s a seemingly simple piece of metal, but the right choke can dramatically impact your scores on the skeet field. I’ve seen shooters struggle for years until they finally found the perfect choke and watched their averages climb almost overnight.
For years, I have relied on factory chokes in my Beretta, believing they were sufficient for casual skeet shooting. However, recently I have become more serious about improving my scores and competing locally. It was time to upgrade my equipment, and the Carlsons name, known for quality and performance, kept popping up in discussions with fellow shooters.
Upon unboxing, the choke tube felt solid and well-made. The 17-4 stainless steel construction gave me confidence in its durability. The finish was smooth and clean, with clear markings indicating the “Skeet” constriction. Comparing it to my factory Beretta choke, the Carlsons tube felt noticeably more robust. I chose the Carlsons over some other brands because of the good balance of price and perceived quality. I was hoping for improved consistency in my patterns and fewer missed targets.
I was definitely excited to try it out. I wasn’t expecting miracles, but I was hoping for a noticeable improvement in my shot consistency. I felt confident that the Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel would provide a tighter, more consistent pattern at skeet distances.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel was at my local skeet range. The weather was typical for early spring: slightly overcast with a light breeze. I primarily shot station 4, my nemesis, and station 8, where I usually crush the clay.
The choke tube screwed in smoothly and easily with the provided wrench. My initial impressions were positive. I started with low expectations, but I immediately noticed a difference in the way the gun felt and sounded. My first round resulted in a 23/25, a slight improvement over my average. I did not have any issues with the choke coming loose after firing several rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. The 17-4 stainless steel has shown no signs of rust or corrosion, despite being exposed to varying weather conditions. Cleaning is also a breeze. A quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent keeps it looking new.
The choke has definitely helped me improve my skeet scores. I am consistently shooting higher scores and have fewer frustrating misses. The improvement, while subtle, is noticeable and has given me a boost of confidence. I believe the Carlsons choke tube has been an improvement, even over the factory chokes, that I am accustomed to.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel
Specifications
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel choke tube is designed specifically for Beretta and Benelli shotguns using the Mobilchoke system. It is constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, a material known for its strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. The choke is designed for 12-gauge shotguns. The “Skeet” designation indicates a very open constriction, designed for close-range targets typically found on a skeet field. This constriction provides a wide, even pattern at shorter distances.
The use of 17-4 stainless steel is a significant advantage, ensuring longevity and resistance to rust, even with frequent use in various weather conditions. The “Skeet” constriction is essential for delivering a consistent spread pattern within the typical skeet shooting range of around 21 yards. This consistent spread improves the probability of hitting the target.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel choke tube performs its job admirably, delivering consistent and predictable patterns at skeet distances. The improved patterns have translated to higher scores and increased confidence on the range. The only area for potential improvement is a slight tightening of tolerances to ensure an even tighter fit within the barrel.
The strength lies in its consistency and durability, while its sole weakness is the very slight play when installed. Ultimately, the Carlsons choke meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel features a simple, functional design. The choke is constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel. The weight is negligible and has no impact on the balance of the shotgun. It is easy to install and remove with a choke wrench.
There is no learning curve involved. Simply screw it into your Beretta or Benelli shotgun.
Durability & Maintenance
Thanks to the 17-4 stainless steel construction, this choke tube is built to last. Regular cleaning and light lubrication will keep it in top condition for years. Maintenance is straightforward: clean after each use to prevent buildup.
Accessories and Customization Options
The choke tube comes with a simple choke wrench. There are no real customization options for this choke tube itself. The primary customization comes from selecting the correct constriction (Skeet) for your shooting needs.
It is compatible with any Beretta or Benelli shotgun that uses the Mobilchoke system.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel
Pros
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction. Resists corrosion and ensures long life.
- Improved pattern consistency. Noticeably tighter and more reliable patterns at skeet distances.
- Easy to install and remove. A simple choke wrench is all you need.
- Noticeable difference in scores. Performance directly translates to improved skeet scores.
- Affordable price. Great value for the performance gains.
Cons
- Slight play. Minor wiggle when installed.
- Plain Design. Lacks the aesthetic appeal of some higher-end chokes.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel?
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel is perfect for skeet shooters of all skill levels using Beretta or Benelli shotguns with the Mobilchoke system. It’s also perfect for casual shooters looking to upgrade from factory chokes. Anyone who wants a more consistent pattern at skeet distances would also benefit.
Those who need a choke for hunting other game should skip this product, as should anyone who owns a shotgun that does not use the Beretta/Benelli Mobil system. A must-have accessory would be a good quality choke tube case to protect your investment.
Conclusion on Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel is a solid, reliable, and affordable upgrade for any skeet shooter using a compatible shotgun. The improved pattern consistency and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment. At a price of $23.38, the value is outstanding.
I would definitely recommend it. It is a simple and effective way to improve your skeet scores without breaking the bank. If you’re ready to take your skeet game to the next level, give the Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel a try.