The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 Made a Bold First Impression
After years of chasing upland game and waterfowl, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances of shotgun performance. Mastering the art of the shotgun hinges on achieving optimal patterns at various ranges, and that starts with the right choke tube. That’s why the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 immediately caught my eye.
My frustrating experience with inconsistent patterns inside 20 yards was the catalyst. I needed a choke that could consistently deliver tight, effective patterns for those close-quarters shots in thick brush or flooded timber. The promise of improved performance with both lead and steel shot, all in a package under $50 from a reputable manufacturer like Carlson’s, was too good to ignore.
Unboxing the Carlson’s choke tube, I was immediately struck by the robust feel of the steel. The black oxide finish looked durable and professional. It screamed quality and purpose.
I considered the Briley Improved Cylinder choke and the Trulock Precision Hunter Improved Cylinder, but the Carlson’s offering boasted optimized performance for close-range scenarios, specifically highlighting lead and steel shot compatibility. This focus, combined with the price point, made it the clear winner for my specific needs.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this relatively inexpensive choke tube truly deliver the pattern density I was seeking at close range? Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local shooting range, patterning the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 with a variety of loads. This included both lead target loads and steel shotshells. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for evaluating pattern density.
The Carlson’s choke tube proved easy to install using a standard choke tube wrench. Its performance was immediately noticeable. The patterns at 15 yards were significantly tighter and more consistent than with my factory-installed Improved Cylinder choke.
There were no initial issues with installation or extraction. The choke tube threaded smoothly into my Browning’s Invector Plus barrel. The improved pattern density eliminated the “fliers” I had been experiencing, resulting in more consistent hits.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full waterfowl season and several upland bird hunts, the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 has proven to be a reliable performer. It has been subjected to everything from freezing temperatures and driving rain to dusty fields. The choke has consistently delivered tight, even patterns.
The black oxide finish has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, even after repeated exposure to moisture. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed to remove any residue.
Compared to my previous experiences with other choke tubes, the Carlson’s offering has outperformed them in close-range scenarios. The consistent pattern density provides confidence in the field, leading to cleaner kills and fewer wounded birds. It has truly improved my close-range shooting capabilities.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730
Specifications
- The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 is designed for 12-gauge shotguns with the Browning Invector Plus choke system. Its internal diameter measures .730 inches, providing a constriction optimized for close-range shooting.
- It is constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel for exceptional durability. This material ensures resistance to corrosion and wear, even under harsh conditions.
- The choke is specifically designed for use with shot sizes ranging from BB to #10 with steel shot. It can be used with any size of lead, bismuth, TSS or Hevi-Shot.
- It is optimized for close-range shooting, with recommended yardages of 5-20 for lead and 15-30 for steel. This ensures dense patterns at typical engagement distances in upland bird hunting or waterfowl hunting over decoys.
- The choke tube is marked with “#1 CR/IC – Close Range,” indicating its constriction and intended use. This allows for easy identification in your choke tube set.
- Slugs may only be used through the IC/CR Choke. It is important to never shoot a slug through a choke tube that is not IC/CR.
These specifications are crucial because they define the Carlson’s choke tube’s purpose and capabilities. The .730-inch diameter and material construction contribute to the choke’s ability to deliver tight, consistent patterns at close range. The compatibility with various shot types makes it versatile for different hunting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 excels at its intended purpose: delivering dense, even patterns at close range. It noticeably improves pattern consistency compared to more open chokes, especially with steel shot. This leads to more ethical and effective shots on game birds.
The choke’s primary strength is its ability to create tight patterns inside of 30 yards. Its main weakness is that it is not suited for longer shots.
The Carlson’s choke meets and slightly exceeds expectations. It provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density, which directly translates to better performance in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 features a simple, functional design. Its black oxide finish provides a durable and non-reflective surface. The choke tube is lightweight and doesn’t significantly alter the balance of the shotgun.
The choke tube is exceptionally user-friendly. Its simple screw-in design requires no special tools (beyond a choke tube wrench) and only takes a few moments to install. There is no learning curve associated with its use.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Its corrosion-resistant finish ensures that it can withstand harsh environmental conditions without degrading.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent will remove any fouling or residue. Periodic lubrication of the threads will ensure smooth installation and removal.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 does not come with any additional accessories. However, Carlson’s offers a wide range of choke tube wrenches that can be purchased separately. The choke tube is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for the Invector Plus system.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730Pros
- Improved pattern density at close range, leading to cleaner kills.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction for long-lasting performance.
- Compatible with both lead and steel shot, offering versatility for different hunting scenarios.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring no specialized tools or knowledge.
- Affordable price point, making it an excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Not ideal for longer-range shots, as patterns become too tight.
- Lacks extended or ported designs, which some shooters may prefer for recoil reduction.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730?
Pros
- Improved pattern density at close range, leading to cleaner kills.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction for long-lasting performance.
- Compatible with both lead and steel shot, offering versatility for different hunting scenarios.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring no specialized tools or knowledge.
- Affordable price point, making it an excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Not ideal for longer-range shots, as patterns become too tight.
- Lacks extended or ported designs, which some shooters may prefer for recoil reduction.
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 is perfect for hunters who primarily shoot at close range, such as those hunting waterfowl over decoys in tight cover or upland birds in dense brush. It is also well-suited for sporting clays shooters who frequently encounter close-range targets. This choke tube offers consistent, tight patterns that increase hit probability and ensure ethical harvests.
Hunters who primarily hunt open fields or require longer-range shots should skip this product. Those shooters should consider a modified or full choke for optimal performance. A must-have accessory is a reliable choke tube wrench to ensure proper installation and removal of the choke tube.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Invector Plus 12ga .730 is an exceptional value for hunters and shooters seeking improved close-range performance. Its durable construction, compatibility with various shot types, and noticeable improvement in pattern density make it a worthwhile investment. At a price of $49.99, it is an affordable upgrade that can significantly enhance your shooting experience.
I would highly recommend the Carlson’s choke tube to anyone looking to tighten their patterns at close range and improve their success in the field. Don’t hesitate – upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference firsthand.