The CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless shotguns and their corresponding chokes come and go. However, when I first laid eyes on the CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA., I knew it was something different. I was immediately intrigued by its promise of improved performance for my 20-gauge shotgun.
My old choke was struggling to provide consistent patterns, leading to frustrating misses during upland bird hunts. I needed a reliable choke that could deliver tighter, more predictable patterns at varying distances. The CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA., with its reputation for quality and performance, seemed like the perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, the CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. felt solid and well-made. The blued finish was clean and even, and the choke itself had a reassuring weight to it. It exuded quality. Compared to the factory choke, this one felt significantly more robust.
I considered other aftermarket chokes, notably those from Briley and Patternmaster. Ultimately, I chose the CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. because of its attractive price point, combined with the consistently positive reviews I had read about Carlson’s choke performance. I wanted to improve my shot patterns without breaking the bank.
My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of skepticism. Could a choke at this price point really deliver the performance improvements I was hoping for? Time would tell, but the initial impression was definitely positive. It was a simple, well-built piece of kit with a clear purpose.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. was at my local sporting clays range. The weather was mild and dry, ideal for testing shot patterns. I primarily used a 20-gauge over-under shotgun.
I was immediately impressed with the pattern consistency. The improved pattern density significantly reduced the number of broken clays versus my old factory choke. It was far easier to consistently break clays even at longer ranges.
The installation was simple, requiring only a choke wrench (sold separately). I did not need to make adjustments beyond proper tightening. I was surprised at the noticeable increase in pattern density and evenness compared to my original choke.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple upland bird hunts in varying conditions, the CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. has proven to be extremely reliable. It consistently produces tight, even patterns, resulting in cleaner kills and fewer wounded birds. The choke has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of rust or corrosion.
Maintaining the CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. is simple. After each use, I clean it with a bore brush and solvent. Then, I apply a light coat of gun oil. The choke still looks and performs like new.
Compared to my previous factory choke, the CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. is a significant improvement. It has noticeably enhanced my shooting performance in both sporting clays and hunting scenarios. It consistently outperforms my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA.
Specifications
The CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. is designed for use with 20-gauge shotguns that utilize the Tru-Choke thread pattern. It features an Improved Cylinder (IC) constriction. The Carlson’s choke is made from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
This particular model is designed to deliver a pattern that is tighter than a Cylinder bore. But it’s looser than a Modified choke. This makes it ideal for close-range hunting and sporting clays where quick target acquisition is crucial. This balance offers versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. performs exceptionally well. It delivers consistent and predictable patterns, which is crucial for accurate shooting. Its improved cylinder constriction provides a balance between pattern density and spread.
The choke’s strength lies in its ability to provide a consistent pattern at reasonable distances. The slight weakness is that at extended ranges, patterns may begin to open up, limiting effectiveness on smaller targets. This is a trade off for the versatility of the IC constriction. It certainly met my expectations, vastly improving my shotgun’s performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. is designed for easy installation and removal. The durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance. The choke’s blued finish helps to prevent rust and corrosion, even in harsh conditions.
The choke is user-friendly. No specialized tools are required beyond a choke wrench. There is no learning curve involved; simply install the choke and start shooting.
Durability & Maintenance
The CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. is built to last. The high-quality steel construction ensures that it can withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements. It is simple to clean and maintain, further extending its lifespan.
Regular cleaning and light lubrication will keep the CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. in top condition. Its rugged design means that it will likely outlast many other shotgun components. I expect to use it for many hunting seasons to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. does not come with any included accessories. However, it is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Tru-Choke systems. There are no specific customization options for this particular choke.
It will fit any 20-gauge shotgun that accepts Tru-Choke style chokes. However, users should ensure that their shotgun barrel is rated for the use of aftermarket chokes before installing. I strongly advise confirming compatibility before attempting installation.
Pros and Cons of CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA.
Pros
- Delivers consistent and predictable shot patterns.
- Improved Cylinder constriction provides versatility for various shooting scenarios.
- Made from durable, corrosion-resistant steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Affordable price point provides excellent value for money.
Cons
- Choke wrench is not included and must be purchased separately.
- IC constriction may not be ideal for extremely long-range shooting.
Who Should Buy CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA.?
The CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. is perfect for upland bird hunters and sporting clay enthusiasts. It is especially useful for those who need a versatile choke for close-to-medium range shooting. Anyone looking to improve their shotgun’s performance on a budget will benefit.
Those who primarily engage in long-range waterfowl hunting or competitive trap shooting may want to consider a choke with a tighter constriction. Users who prefer a completely customized shooting experience might prefer adjustable chokes. You should skip this product if you require specialized chokes.
A must-have accessory is a choke wrench. Also, consider purchasing a choke tube case to protect the choke when it’s not in use.
Conclusion on CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA.
Overall, the CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. is an excellent product that delivers on its promises. It significantly improved my shotgun’s performance. The price is very reasonable for the quality and performance you get.
The CARLSONS CHOKE TRU-CHOKE 20GA. is absolutely worth it for anyone looking to enhance their shotgun’s capabilities without spending a fortune. I wholeheartedly recommend it to any 20-gauge shooter looking for a reliable and versatile choke. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!