The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 Made a Bold First Impression
Turkey hunting is a game of precision, patience, and, most importantly, pattern density. After years of chasing gobblers with factory chokes and mediocre results, I knew it was time to upgrade my setup. That’s where the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 entered the picture, promising tighter patterns and extended range.
My quest for a better choke stemmed from too many close encounters that ended with scattered shot and a missed opportunity. I was looking for a choke that could consistently deliver dense, lethal patterns at distances beyond the typical 30-yard range of a factory choke. I wanted something that would give me the confidence to take a shot knowing I was putting the maximum amount of pellets on target.
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was one of solid construction and a clean, matte black finish. The .655 constriction looked menacing, hinting at the tight patterns to come.
I considered several other turkey chokes on the market, including models from Carlson’s and Trulock. Ultimately, I chose the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 based on its reputation for producing consistently tight patterns and the JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design. This design promised better shot and wad separation, which I hoped would translate to more pellets on target at longer ranges.
My first impression was definitely one of excitement. The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 looked and felt like a serious piece of equipment. I was eager to get it to the range and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 was at my local shooting range. I set up a turkey target at 40 yards and patterned several different loads of turkey shells. This range gave me a controlled environment to really dial in the performance of the choke.
The choke performed exceptionally well in the dry, mild conditions. Even with budget-friendly shells, the patterns were noticeably tighter and more consistent than with my factory choke. I was immediately impressed with the pattern density.
Installation was straightforward, and the choke threaded smoothly into my Retay shotgun. There were no issues with fit or function. The improved pattern density was immediately obvious, boosting my confidence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season and several range sessions, the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has consistently delivered tight, lethal patterns, and shows no signs of wear and tear. This is a choke built to withstand the rigors of the turkey woods.
The matte black finish has held up well, showing minimal scratching despite being used in thick brush and muddy conditions. Cleaning is also straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe down with a bore brush and solvent after each use. Proper cleaning ensures the choke maintains its peak performance.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 has significantly improved my success rate in the field. The confidence I have knowing that I am putting more pellets on target has made all the difference. This choke has truly elevated my turkey hunting game.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655
Specifications
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 is a meticulously engineered choke tube designed specifically for turkey hunting. It is chambered for 12 gauge shotguns. The choke features a .655-inch constriction, optimized for tight patterns at extended ranges.
The choke tube is constructed from high-quality steel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion. The matte black finish reduces glare and provides a low-profile appearance in the field. The JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design is the heart of this choke’s performance.
This design promotes better shot and wad separation, resulting in denser and more consistent patterns. The design allows for exceptional patterns. These design elements contribute to the choke’s ability to deliver lethal patterns at distances beyond the reach of standard chokes.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 excels at its primary task: delivering tight, dense patterns at extended ranges. This choke significantly increases the effective range of a 12 gauge shotgun for turkey hunting. The result is more successful hunts.
The choke’s strengths lie in its ability to consistently put a high percentage of pellets within a 10-inch circle at 40 yards and beyond. The only area for improvement might be offering different constriction options to cater to different shooting styles and ammunition preferences. This choke has proven its value in the field.
Overall, the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 meets and exceeds expectations. It’s a well-designed and expertly manufactured choke that delivers on its promise of improved pattern density and extended range. It’s a game changer for serious turkey hunters.
Design & Ergonomics
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 boasts a robust build quality. The materials used are clearly of high quality. The weight is negligible.
The choke is easy to install and remove, requiring no special tools. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The choke threads smoothly into the barrel.
Durability & Maintenance
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 is built to last. With proper care, this choke should provide many years of reliable service. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain its performance.
Cleaning is simple and straightforward. A bore brush and solvent are all that’s needed to remove any residue. This choke offers exceptional longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 does not come with any additional accessories. The choke tube itself is the primary product. Customization options are limited to selecting the appropriate choke constriction for your specific shotgun and ammunition.
The choke is compatible with any Retay 12 gauge shotgun that accepts screw-in chokes. There are no specific accessories or modifications required for optimal performance. Using quality turkey loads is also a good idea.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and dense patterns at extended ranges, increasing your effective range for turkey hunting.
- The JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design promotes better shot and wad separation, resulting in more consistent patterns.
- Constructed from high-quality steel with a durable matte black finish, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring no special tools or complicated cleaning procedures.
- Significantly improves your chances of success in the turkey woods by providing the confidence to take longer shots with lethal accuracy.
Cons
- Limited customization options; only available in one constriction (.655).
- May require some experimentation with different turkey loads to find the optimal combination for your specific shotgun.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655?
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who are looking to maximize the performance of their Retay 12 gauge shotgun. This choke is ideal for hunters who frequently encounter wary birds or hunt in areas where longer shots are necessary. It’s also a great choice for hunters who want to improve their pattern density and consistency.
Hunters who primarily hunt in very close quarters, where shots are typically within 20 yards, might not fully benefit from the tight constriction of this choke. These hunters might find a more open choke to be more suitable for their needs. No must-have accessories or modifications are required, but experimenting with different turkey loads is highly recommended to find the optimal combination for your shotgun.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655
The EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 is an outstanding turkey choke that delivers exceptional performance and value. Its ability to consistently produce tight, dense patterns at extended ranges makes it a worthwhile investment for any serious turkey hunter. This choke will improve your patterns.
At $89.99, the price is justified by the significant improvement in pattern density and extended range. It’s a relatively small investment that can make a big difference in your success in the turkey woods. This is an affordable upgrade.
I would highly recommend the EAR Head Hunter Retay 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 to any turkey hunter looking to upgrade their setup and improve their chances of success. If you’re serious about turkey hunting, this choke is a game-changer. Take your turkey hunting to the next level and experience the confidence that comes with knowing you have the best possible equipment.