The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565 Made a Bold First Impression
Turkey hunting is a deeply personal pursuit, a blend of strategy, patience, and the right gear. I’ve spent over a decade chasing gobblers across various terrains, and the frustration of a scattered pattern at a crucial moment is etched in my memory. That’s why the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565 immediately piqued my interest – a choke tube promising tighter, more effective patterns at extended ranges.
My quest for the perfect turkey choke began after a particularly humbling season where a longbeard strutted just outside my comfortable range, only to walk away unscathed due to a less-than-ideal shot pattern. Unboxing the EAR Head Hunter revealed a well-machined, matte black choke tube that exuded quality. The simple design belied the JEBS Chokes patented “multi-staged” interior bore design, which promises better shot and wad separation.
Compared to my previous choke, a standard extended turkey choke, the EAR Head Hunter felt more substantial, hinting at a more robust build. I also considered the Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke and the Primos Jelly Head Max, both popular choices, but the EAR Head Hunter’s unique bore design and claims of extreme patterns swayed my decision. My initial excitement was tempered with cautious optimism. I couldn’t wait to see if the hype matched the reality.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565 was at a local shooting range, patterning different turkey loads at 30 and 40 yards. The weather was clear and mild, perfect for dialing in the setup. Installation was straightforward; the choke screwed in smoothly to my Remington 870 20 gauge.
The initial results were immediately impressive. The patterns were noticeably tighter and more consistent than what I was used to, with a dense core of pellets concentrated in the kill zone of a turkey target. There was no need to adjust to the choke as it was as simple as screwing it in and heading to the range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a full turkey season in the humid swamps of South Carolina, the EAR Head Hunter has proven its worth. It continues to deliver consistent, tight patterns, even in challenging conditions. The matte black finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear despite being exposed to mud, rain, and dense vegetation.
Maintenance is simple; a quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use keeps it in top condition. Compared to my previous experiences with other chokes, the EAR Head Hunter consistently outperforms them in pattern density and effective range. This gives me more confidence when a bird hangs up just beyond what I’d consider “chip shot” distance.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565
Specifications
- Gauge: 20 Gauge. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of popular turkey shotguns, making it a versatile choice for many hunters.
- Construction: High-quality steel with a matte black finish. The robust construction offers excellent durability and corrosion resistance for lasting performance.
- Bore Diameter: .565″. This specific constriction is optimized for tight patterns at extended ranges, ideal for turkey hunting.
- Choke Type: Turkey. This is specifically designed for optimal performance with turkey loads.
- Compatibility: Remington threaded barrels. Make sure that your shotgun takes Remington threaded barrels.
- Interior Bore Design: JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore. This unique design promotes better shot and wad separation, resulting in denser and more consistent patterns.
These specifications directly translate to improved performance in the field. The tighter constriction and unique bore design result in a denser pattern, increasing the odds of a clean, ethical kill.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565 excels at its primary function: delivering devastatingly tight and consistent patterns. At 40 yards, I consistently achieved patterns with 80-90% of the pellets within a 10-inch circle, which is exceptional for a 20 gauge. The choke’s strength lies in its ability to maintain pattern density at longer ranges, giving hunters more confidence in challenging scenarios.
One minor area for improvement could be the exterior finish. While durable, it can be prone to scratching if not handled carefully in dense brush. Overall, the EAR Head Hunter exceeds expectations, providing a significant upgrade in pattern performance compared to standard turkey chokes.
Design & Ergonomics
The EAR Head Hunter’s design is simple yet effective. The matte black finish reduces glare, an important consideration when hunting wary turkeys. Its weight is negligible, adding virtually no noticeable heft to the shotgun.
Installation is straightforward, requiring no special tools. The choke is very user friendly as there are no adjustments necessary.
Durability & Maintenance
The EAR Head Hunter is built to last. The high-quality steel construction can withstand the rigors of turkey hunting, from harsh weather to rough handling. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only regular cleaning to remove powder residue.
The choke’s robust design suggests that it will provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is a breeze because of the simple design.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565 doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, its compatibility with Remington threaded barrels means it can be paired with a wide variety of aftermarket sights and slings to enhance overall shotgun performance. There are no customization options for the choke tube itself.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges.
- JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design improves shot and wad separation.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance in demanding hunting conditions.
- Simple installation and maintenance.
- Matte black finish reduces glare, an advantage in the turkey woods.
Cons
- Matte black finish can be prone to scratching.
- No included accessories.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565?
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand the best possible pattern performance from their 20-gauge shotgun. It’s an excellent upgrade for those seeking to extend their effective range and improve their odds of success. This choke is also well-suited for hunters who prioritize durability and reliability in their gear.
Hunters who are new to turkey hunting or who primarily hunt at very close ranges might not fully appreciate the benefits of this specialized choke. Consider a basic full choke for shorter ranges. A sling for your shotgun would be a must-have accessory when using this choke.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565
The EAR Head Hunter Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .565 is a top-tier turkey choke that delivers on its promise of tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the performance justifies the investment for serious turkey hunters. The value it provides is well worth the money.
I would highly recommend this choke to anyone looking to maximize the effectiveness of their 20-gauge shotgun in the turkey woods. If you’re ready to take your turkey hunting to the next level, the EAR Head Hunter is an excellent choice. Gear up, get out there, and let the EAR Head Hunter help you put that longbeard on the ground!