The CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS Made a Bold First Impression
The CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS isn’t just another choke tube; it’s a specialized tool designed for hunters who demand exceptional performance at extended ranges. Its ported design and compatibility with various shot types, including Hevi-Shot, Bismuth, and lead, promises devastating patterns for coyote and waterfowl hunters alike. For years, I’ve chased the elusive perfect pattern, struggling to find a choke that consistently delivers tight groupings beyond 50 yards. This choke seemed to offer the solution I was looking for: a choke tube optimized for larger shot sizes and long-range performance, specifically tailored for the demands of predator hunting.
I needed a choke that could extend my effective range when hunting coyotes in open fields. Standard chokes often produced patterns that were too sparse at longer distances, resulting in missed opportunities and wounded animals. The CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS arrived in a simple, functional package. The choke’s robust construction and the clearly marked porting immediately impressed me. Picking it up, the weight felt balanced, hinting at a quality build.
Compared to my standard modified choke and a long-range turkey choke from Trulock, the CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS was noticeably different. While the others focused on general purpose or extreme tightness with small shot, this CARL COYOTE choke felt purpose-built for a specific task: delivering dense patterns with larger shot at longer distances. I chose the CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS because of its advertised effectiveness with larger shot sizes and its intended use for coyote hunting at extended ranges. I was cautiously optimistic; the claims were bold, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS was on a crisp morning in the rolling hills of eastern Wyoming, a known coyote hotspot. The wind was calm, and visibility was excellent, providing ideal conditions for testing the choke’s long-range capabilities. I patterned the choke with a variety of loads: #4 buckshot, BB lead, and Hevi-Shot #2, using a life-size coyote target at 40, 50, 60 and 70 yards. The installation was smooth and straightforward, requiring no special tools. The choke tightened securely into my Benelli Crio Plus barrel.
The performance in these controlled conditions was impressive. At 40 yards, the buckshot created a devastatingly tight pattern, with nearly every pellet striking the vital zone of the coyote target. Even at 60 yards, the pattern held together remarkably well, delivering enough pellets to ensure a clean kill. Recoil was slightly reduced compared to my standard choke, likely due to the porting. The choke performed admirably, with no noticeable issues or malfunctions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my hunting gear. The choke shows minimal signs of wear, despite exposure to harsh weather conditions and frequent cleaning. The black finish has held up well, resisting scratches and corrosion. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a standard choke tube brush and solvent.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket chokes, the CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS consistently outperforms them in terms of pattern density and effective range with larger shot sizes. This choke has significantly improved my confidence and success rate when hunting coyotes in open terrain. It has not disappointed me in the slightest.
Breaking Down the Features of CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS
Specifications
- Compatibility: Designed for shotguns with Crio Plus choke tube systems. This ensures a secure and reliable fit in Benelli and Beretta shotguns that utilize the Crio Plus system.
- Shot Type: Optimized for use with Hevi-Shot, Bismuth, or lead ammunition. This versatility allows hunters to use their preferred shot type depending on regulations and personal preference.
- Ported Design: Features strategically placed ports to reduce recoil and muzzle jump. This allows for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy.
- Construction: Made from high-quality steel for durability and longevity. The robust construction ensures the choke can withstand the rigors of heavy use and harsh environmental conditions.
- Intended Use: Specifically designed for coyote, waterfowl, and predator hunting. Its optimized pattern density at longer ranges makes it ideal for these applications.
- Steel Shot Restriction: NOT FOR USE WITH STEEL SHOT. This is a critical limitation to prevent damage to the choke tube and potential harm to the shooter.
Performance & Functionality
The CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS excels at delivering dense, consistent patterns at extended ranges, specifically with larger shot sizes. This results in cleaner kills and fewer wounded animals. The porting effectively reduces recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. This is particularly beneficial in situations where multiple targets are present.
The primary strength of this choke is its ability to maintain tight patterns with buckshot and larger lead or Hevi-Shot at distances beyond 50 yards. One potential weakness is the restriction against using steel shot. It limits its use in areas where non-toxic shot is required. The choke tube meets and exceeds my expectations for long-range predator hunting.
Design & Ergonomics
The CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS features a simple, functional design with a durable black finish. The choke is easy to install and remove using a standard choke tube wrench. Its weight is negligible, having virtually no impact on the overall balance of the shotgun.
The choke tube is user-friendly and requires no special training or expertise to operate. Its design prioritizes functionality and durability, making it a reliable and effective tool for hunters of all skill levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The high-quality steel construction of the CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS ensures it will withstand years of use with proper care. Regular cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent is essential to prevent fouling and maintain optimal performance. With proper maintenance, this choke tube should last for many hunting seasons.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS does not come with any additional accessories. It is a standalone choke tube designed to be compatible with shotguns featuring the Crio Plus choke tube system. There are no specific customization options available for the choke itself, other than selecting the appropriate Crio Plus thread pattern for your shotgun. However, it is compatible with aftermarket choke tube wrenches designed for Crio Plus systems.
Pros and Cons of CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS
Pros
- Delivers devastatingly dense patterns with larger shot sizes (buckshot, BB lead, Hevi-Shot). This dramatically increases the effective range for predator and waterfowl hunting.
- Noticeably reduces recoil and muzzle jump due to the ported design. This allows for faster and more accurate follow-up shots.
- Durable high-quality steel construction ensures long-lasting performance. The robust build withstands harsh conditions and frequent use.
- Easy to install and clean with standard choke tube tools. This minimizes maintenance time and effort.
- Specifically designed for the Crio Plus system, ensuring a secure and reliable fit in compatible shotguns. This removes any guesswork on if this choke fits your firearm.
Cons
- Not for use with steel shot. This limits its use in areas where non-toxic shot is mandatory.
- Specialized design may not be ideal for close-range shooting with smaller shot sizes. This means it is not an all-in-one choke for all shooting styles.
Who Should Buy CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS?
Perfect for: Coyote hunters, waterfowl hunters (using lead or bismuth shot), and predator hunters who require extended range and tight patterns with larger shot sizes. It also suits hunters who prioritize reduced recoil and quicker follow-up shots.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who primarily use steel shot, those who primarily hunt at very close ranges, or those seeking a single choke tube for all hunting applications should consider other options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality choke tube wrench designed for Crio Plus systems is essential for easy installation and removal. Also consider selecting a high-quality lead or Hevi-Shot ammunition specifically designed for predator or waterfowl hunting to maximize the choke’s effectiveness.
Conclusion on CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS
The CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS is a specialized choke tube that delivers exceptional performance for hunters who demand extended range and tight patterns with larger shot sizes. Its ported design effectively reduces recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots. Its durable construction ensures long-lasting reliability. While the restriction against steel shot is a drawback, its strengths far outweigh its limitations for its intended purpose.
At $52.49, the price is justified given the performance improvements and the increased confidence it provides in the field. I wholeheartedly recommend the CARL COYOTE PORTED CHOKE CRIO PLUS to any serious predator or waterfowl hunter looking to extend their effective range and improve their success rate. Take your shotgun to the next level and experience the difference for yourself!