The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. isn’t just another aftermarket shotgun accessory; it’s a promise of tighter patterns and enhanced downrange performance. Manufactured by Carlsons, a reputable name in the choke tube industry, it’s designed specifically for Benelli Crio Plus shotguns, offering a full choke constriction for maximum range and pattern density. This choke tube aims to elevate your shotgun’s capabilities, whether you’re chasing waterfowl or breaking clays.
For years, I’ve struggled with inconsistent patterns from my Benelli when trying to reach out to longer distances. I needed a choke tube that could consistently deliver tight, reliable patterns at extended ranges, and the “full” constriction seemed like the perfect solution. The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. promised to solve this problem.
Upon receiving the choke tube, I was immediately struck by its solid construction and clean finish. The stainless steel felt robust and well-machined. Compared to a generic, unbranded choke I had previously used, the Carlsons choke exuded quality and precision. It felt like a serious piece of equipment.
My initial thought was excitement. Could this simple addition truly transform my shotgun’s performance? I was eager to get to the range and find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. was at my local shooting range, where I set up targets at 30 and 40 yards. The weather was mild and dry, ideal conditions for testing. I used a variety of 12-gauge ammunition, including both lead and steel shot, to assess the choke’s performance with different loads.
The most noticeable difference was the significant tightening of the shot patterns compared to my previous improved cylinder choke. At 40 yards, the Carlsons choke delivered noticeably denser patterns, with a higher percentage of pellets hitting the target’s vital zone. The difference was immediately apparent.
Installation was straightforward, and I didn’t need any special tools beyond the standard choke tube wrench. I experienced no issues during the initial use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my shotgun. I’ve used it extensively for both clay shooting and waterfowl hunting in a variety of conditions. Despite exposure to rain, mud, and the occasional bump, it shows minimal signs of wear.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in excellent condition. I’ve experienced no corrosion or degradation of the finish.
The Carlsons choke significantly outperforms the factory-supplied modified choke that came with my Benelli. It consistently provides tighter, more consistent patterns at longer ranges, leading to more successful shots and fewer wounded birds. It has definitely met and exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga.
Specifications
The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:
- Material: Constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel. This provides exceptional strength and corrosion resistance, ensuring a long lifespan.
- Compatibility: Designed specifically for Benelli Crio Plus shotguns. This ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance with compatible models.
- Constriction: Full choke. The full choke provides the tightest pattern, ideal for long-range shots and maximizing pellet density.
- Ammunition: Compatible with steel, lead, and Hevi-Shot. Its versatility allows it to be used in various hunting and shooting applications.
- Warranty: Backed by Carlsons‘ lifetime warranty. This reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s quality and durability.
- Origin: Made in the USA. This ensures high quality craftsmanship and supports American manufacturing.
These specifications are not just marketing jargon; they translate directly into tangible benefits. The stainless steel construction guarantees longevity, while the full choke constriction provides the pattern density needed for ethical and effective shots at extended ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. excels in its primary function: delivering tight, consistent shot patterns. Its accuracy at longer ranges is significantly improved compared to less constricted chokes. This increased pattern density translates to a higher probability of hitting the target.
The main strength lies in its ability to maintain a dense pattern at distances where other chokes start to spread out. It instills confidence when taking longer shots. A minor weakness could be that the very tight pattern may not be ideal for close-range shooting, where a more open choke is preferable.
The choke tube meets and exceeds my expectations for long-range performance. It has noticeably improved my hit rate on distant targets.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. features a flush-mount design that integrates seamlessly with the shotgun’s barrel. Its build quality is exceptional, with precise machining and a flawless finish. The stainless steel construction gives it a substantial feel, conveying a sense of durability and quality.
There is no learning curve involved. Installing the choke tube is a simple and intuitive process.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures that the Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. is built to last. It can withstand harsh environmental conditions and repeated use without showing significant wear.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use is sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. The choke tube is also resistant to rust and corrosion, further extending its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, its compatibility with various ammunition types, including steel, lead, and Hevi-Shot, provides a degree of flexibility.
While it doesn’t directly accept accessories, its performance can be further enhanced by pairing it with high-quality ammunition and carefully selecting the appropriate shell for the intended target. The choke is compatible with any Benelli Crio Plus shotgun.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga.
Pros
- Consistently tight shot patterns at extended ranges. This is the choke’s primary strength, making it ideal for hunting waterfowl or shooting clays at longer distances.
- Durable 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction. Ensures a long lifespan and resistance to corrosion.
- Easy to install and maintain. No special tools or skills are required for installation or cleaning.
- Compatible with steel, lead, and Hevi-Shot. Offers versatility in ammunition selection.
- Carlsons‘ lifetime warranty. Provides peace of mind and reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s quality.
Cons
- Full choke may be too tight for close-range shooting. Less suitable for situations where a wider shot pattern is needed.
- Limited to Benelli Crio Plus shotguns. Not compatible with other shotgun models.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga.?
The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. is perfect for waterfowl hunters who frequently take long-range shots. It is also beneficial for trap and skeet shooters seeking tighter patterns for improved scores. Anyone who owns a Benelli Crio Plus shotgun and wants to maximize its long-range potential will find this choke tube a valuable addition.
This product isn’t ideal for hunters who primarily shoot at close range, such as those hunting upland birds in dense cover. A more open choke would be better suited for those situations.
A must-have accessory would be a quality choke tube wrench to facilitate easy installation and removal. Also, experimenting with different brands and types of ammunition is highly recommended to find the optimal load for your specific shotgun and intended target.
Conclusion on Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga.
The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. is a well-made, high-performing choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and improved long-range accuracy. Its durable construction, easy maintenance, and compatibility with various ammunition types make it a worthwhile investment for Benelli Crio Plus shotgun owners.
At $24.99, the price is justified by the noticeable improvement in performance and the peace of mind provided by Carlsons‘ lifetime warranty. It’s a small price to pay for a significant upgrade in your shotgun’s capabilities.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Full 12 ga. to anyone looking to enhance their shotgun’s long-range performance. If you want tighter patterns and more successful shots, this choke tube is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your Benelli today and experience the difference!