The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve been chasing that perfect turkey choke. The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 promises denser patterns at longer ranges, a claim I was eager to verify. EAR boasts a patented “multi-staged” interior bore design intended to improve shot and wad separation, leading to tighter patterns, exactly what any serious turkey hunter craves.
My quest began with frustrating hunts where birds hung up just outside my effective range. I needed a choke that could confidently extend my reach without sacrificing pattern density, and the EAR Head Hunter seemed to fit the bill. Upon unboxing, the matte black finish and solid construction immediately spoke to the quality.
I’ve used other turkey chokes, including the Carlson’s Long Beard XR and the Briley X2, each with varying degrees of success. I selected the EAR Head Hunter due to its innovative design and the manufacturer’s specific focus on maximizing pattern density. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the choke exuded quality, but the proof would be in the pattern. I was excited to see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was a local shooting range with dedicated patterning boards. I tested the choke with a variety of turkey loads, including Winchester Long Beard XR (my go-to), Federal Premium Grand Slam, and some Hevi-Shot Magnum Blend. Conditions were typical for early spring: cool, slightly damp, with a light breeze.
The EAR Head Hunter performed admirably right out of the gate. Patterns were noticeably tighter compared to my factory choke, especially with the Winchester Long Beard XR. I didn’t encounter any immediate issues, and the installation process was smooth.
Extended Use & Reliability
After months of use, including several turkey hunts in varying terrain and weather conditions, the EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 has proven its reliability. I’ve put roughly 100 rounds through it, and there are no signs of significant wear. Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition.
The choke has consistently delivered dense patterns, significantly improving my confidence at longer ranges. It noticeably outperforms my previous chokes, offering a tighter, more consistent spread at 40+ yards. I have experienced no issues whatsoever with the choke’s functionality.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Specifications
The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns with Invector choke systems. Its constriction measures .660″, which is optimized for tight turkey patterns. The choke is constructed from high-quality steel and features a durable matte black finish.
The EAR choke boasts a patented “multi-staged” interior bore design. This design promotes better shot and wad separation, leading to denser and more consistent patterns. The .660″ constriction is ideal for maximizing range and pattern density with various turkey loads.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 excels at its primary purpose: delivering tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges. It significantly improves effective range when compared to a factory choke or a more general-purpose aftermarket choke. The improved pattern density translates to more ethical and successful turkey hunts.
The choke tube does exactly what it claims, providing consistently tight patterns at 40+ yards. There are no notable weaknesses in terms of performance; the EAR Head Hunter meets and often exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The EAR Head Hunter is constructed from high-quality steel with a matte black finish. The build quality is excellent; the choke feels solid and well-made. Its weight is negligible, adding minimal impact to the shotgun’s overall balance.
Installation is simple, and the choke wrench (sold separately) makes swapping tubes a breeze. There is virtually no learning curve; its performance speaks for itself.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust steel construction and corrosion-resistant finish, the EAR Head Hunter should last for many seasons of dedicated use. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s required to maintain its performance. The finish appears durable and resistant to scratches and wear.
Maintenance is straightforward, and the choke’s simple design minimizes potential failure points. Its rugged construction suggests a long lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 doesn’t come with any included accessories, but a dedicated choke wrench is highly recommended for easy installation and removal. There are no customization options specific to the choke itself, but its performance can be fine-tuned by experimenting with different turkey loads. The EAR Head Hunter is compatible with any 12-gauge shotgun that uses the Invector choke system.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Pros
- Delivers extremely tight and dense patterns at extended ranges.
- Improves effective range for turkey hunting.
- Durable steel construction with a corrosion-resistant matte black finish.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Noticeably better performance than factory chokes.
Cons
- Requires a dedicated choke wrench for installation and removal (sold separately).
- Relatively specialized; may not be ideal for other types of hunting or shooting.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660?
The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is perfect for serious turkey hunters seeking to maximize their shotgun’s range and pattern density. It’s ideal for those who hunt in areas where long shots are often necessary. Anyone looking to upgrade from a factory choke and improve their odds of success in the turkey woods will appreciate this choke’s performance.
This choke may not be suitable for hunters who primarily hunt in dense cover where shots are typically close range (under 20 yards). Hunters who use their shotguns for a variety of game and require a more versatile choke may also want to consider other options. A dedicated choke wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 has proven to be an exceptional turkey choke. Its ability to deliver tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges is truly impressive. At $89.99, the price is justified by the significant improvement in performance it offers.
I wholeheartedly recommend the EAR Head Hunter to any serious turkey hunter looking to gain an edge in the field. It’s a well-made, reliable, and effective choke that will undoubtedly increase your chances of success. Invest in the EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 and experience the difference for yourself this turkey season!