The EAR Head Hunter Invector DS Browning A5 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of aftermarket choke tubes promising tighter patterns and longer ranges. But the EAR Head Hunter Invector DS Browning A5 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 immediately caught my eye. This choke isn’t just another accessory; it’s a precision-engineered tool designed to maximize the potential of the Browning A5 for turkey hunting.
I was experiencing frustratingly inconsistent patterns with my factory choke, leading to missed opportunities on wary toms. My hunt for a solution led me to the EAR Head Hunter. The promise of “extreme patterns down range at further distances” was exactly what I needed.
Upon unboxing, the EAR Head Hunter exuded quality. The matte black finish was flawless, and the weight felt substantial, suggesting durable construction. Compared to the extended choke tubes from Carlson’s and Briley that I’ve used in the past, the EAR Head Hunter seemed to prioritize pattern density above all else.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The claims were bold, but the build quality suggested the EAR Head Hunter could deliver on its promise. I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Invector DS Browning A5 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the EAR Head Hunter took place at my local shooting range, patterning it with a variety of turkey loads, including Winchester Long Beard XR and Federal Premium Grand Slam. The range offered distances from 10 to 50 yards, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation. The weather was clear and calm, providing ideal testing conditions.
The most notable aspect was the immediate tightening of my patterns. At 40 yards, where my factory choke often produced sparse patterns with significant gaps, the EAR Head Hunter delivered consistently dense groupings with impressive pellet counts in the vital zone of a turkey target. There was a noticeable improvement in pattern consistency across different load types.
The EAR Head Hunter required no break-in period or adjustments. I simply installed it in my Browning A5 and began shooting. It felt like a seamless upgrade. I was pleasantly surprised by the improvement in pattern density and uniformity.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season of using the EAR Head Hunter, its performance has been nothing short of exceptional. The choke has remained consistently reliable, even after multiple hunts in various weather conditions.
Durability has proven to be a strong suit. Despite repeated use and exposure to field conditions, the matte black finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear. The choke tube has remained securely threaded in my A5, without loosening or requiring constant tightening.
Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with bore cleaner and a nylon brush after each use is all that’s needed to maintain its performance. Compared to other chokes I’ve used, the EAR Head Hunter has required minimal maintenance. It consistently outperforms my previous setups. It has provided tighter and more reliable patterns, translating into more successful hunts.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Invector DS Browning A5 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Specifications
This EAR Head Hunter choke tube is designed specifically for Browning A5 12 Gauge shotguns with the Invector DS choke system. This ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance.
It features a .660 constriction, optimized for tight, dense patterns at extended ranges. This is ideal for turkey hunting scenarios where longer shots are common.
The choke boasts JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore designs. These unique bore designs promote better “shot & wad cup” separation, resulting in more precise and denser patterns on the target.
Finished in a matte black coating, the choke tube provides a non-reflective surface. This helps minimize glare and ensures better concealment in the turkey woods.
Designed for use with 12 Gauge ammunition, this choke is versatile enough to handle a wide variety of turkey loads. Experimentation is key to finding the optimal pairing for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions. The .660 constriction is critical for achieving tight patterns for turkey hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter excels at delivering tight, consistent patterns at distances of 40 yards and beyond. This is critical for ethical and effective turkey hunting. The choke’s performance exceeded my expectations. It provided a significant improvement over my factory choke, resulting in more confident shots.
The primary strength is its ability to consistently produce dense patterns. This increases the odds of a clean kill. A potential weakness could be the very tight pattern at close range, making it less forgiving on shorter shots.
The EAR Head Hunter dramatically exceeded my expectations. It delivered consistently tighter patterns and increased my effective range.
Design & Ergonomics
The EAR Head Hunter is built with high-quality materials. The robust construction gives it a solid and durable feel. The weight is substantial. However, it’s not excessive enough to negatively impact the shotgun’s balance.
The choke tube is incredibly user-friendly. Installation and removal are straightforward using a standard choke tube wrench. There’s virtually no learning curve. Anyone familiar with changing choke tubes will find it simple to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The EAR Head Hunter appears to be built to last. The robust construction and durable finish suggest it will withstand years of use and abuse.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with bore cleaner and a nylon brush is all that’s needed to keep it in optimal condition. The choke is easy to disassemble and clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter does not come with any additional accessories, focusing purely on choke tube performance. No customization options are available. It is a purpose-built choke tube with a singular goal: optimizing turkey patterns.
The choke tube is compatible with any standard Invector DS choke wrench. Aftermarket choke tube cases are also compatible for safe storage.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Invector DS Browning A5 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and dense patterns at extended ranges. This increases the effective range for turkey hunting.
- JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore designs significantly improves shot & wad cup separation for consistent patterns.
- Durable matte black finish minimizes glare and withstands harsh field conditions.
- Easy to install and maintain. Requires only basic cleaning tools.
- Specifically designed for Browning A5 with Invector DS chokes, ensuring a perfect fit.
Cons
- The very tight pattern may be less forgiving at close ranges. This requires careful aiming on shorter shots.
- Limited to Browning A5 shotguns with Invector DS choke system. Not compatible with other shotguns or choke systems.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Invector DS Browning A5 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660?
Perfect for: Turkey hunters who own a Browning A5 with the Invector DS choke system and seek maximum range and pattern density. Seasoned turkey hunters looking to improve their success rate on wary birds at longer distances will benefit greatly.
Who should skip this product? Hunters using other shotgun brands or choke systems, or those who primarily hunt turkeys at very close ranges (under 20 yards). Hunters who prefer a more open choke for versatility in different hunting situations should consider alternatives.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality turkey-specific optic can further enhance accuracy at extended ranges. A comfortable sling can improve mobility and reduce fatigue during long hunts. Experimentation with various turkey loads is essential to find the optimal pairing for your shotgun and choke tube.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Invector DS Browning A5 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
The EAR Head Hunter Invector DS Browning A5 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is a purpose-built choke tube that delivers exceptional performance for turkey hunters. Its tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges provide a significant advantage in the field.
At $89.99, the price is justified by the noticeable improvement in pattern density and overall performance. This investment can translate to more successful hunts and fewer missed opportunities.
I wholeheartedly recommend the EAR Head Hunter to any serious turkey hunter using a Browning A5 with the Invector DS choke system. Upgrade your A5 with the EAR Head Hunter and experience the difference a truly optimized choke can make this turkey season.