The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR Made a Bold First Impression
After years of tweaking my shotgun setups for waterfowl, I was always searching for that perfect choke tube. The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR immediately caught my eye with its promise of tighter patterns and reduced pellet deformation, something I desperately needed to improve my downrange consistency. The Invector DS system is notorious for requiring specialized chokes, so finding a high-performance aftermarket option felt like striking gold.
I was constantly battling inconsistent patterns with factory chokes, especially when switching between steel and lead shot. I longed for a single choke that could handle anything I threw at it, delivering consistent results across various distances. The Cremator’s TST (Triple Shot Technology) and its purported ability to handle any shot type without restriction piqued my interest immensely.
Unboxing the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the 17-4 stainless steel. The ported design looked aggressive and purposeful, hinting at the performance benefits to come. The choke had a satisfying weight that inspired confidence in its build quality.
I had been considering a Briley choke, known for their precision, but the Cremator’s steel-shot-friendly design and slightly lower price point ultimately swayed me. I also looked at the Patternmaster Code Black Duck, but concerns about specific wad compatibility steered me toward the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR. This seemed like a versatile and reliable solution for my waterfowl needs.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to test the claims of improved patterns and reduced recoil. The robust construction and thoughtful design gave me hope that this choke would finally solve my pattern inconsistencies. I was eager to get it on my Browning and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR at my local sporting clays range, using a variety of target loads. I wanted to get a feel for its performance before taking it out for waterfowl. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and a bit breezy, providing decent conditions for evaluating performance.
Even with lighter target loads, I could immediately notice a slight reduction in felt recoil, likely due to the ported design. Target breaks were noticeably cleaner and more consistent, especially at mid-range distances. I was pleased with the results straight away.
There was a minor issue with initial installation; it required a bit more force than my factory chokes to seat correctly, but that was the only hiccup. I was impressed by the pattern consistency even with a variety of different loads. The ported design appeared to do its job effectively.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full waterfowl season using the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR, it has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of rust or corrosion despite heavy use in wet conditions. The finish has held up well, with only minor cosmetic wear.
Cleaning is straightforward; I simply run a choke tube brush through it after each use and apply a light coat of oil for storage. It’s an extremely simple process. The choke has consistently delivered tight patterns with both steel and lead shot, making it a reliable choice for any hunting situation.
Compared to my previous factory chokes, the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR is a significant upgrade. I’ve noticed a marked improvement in my hit ratios on longer shots, making it well worth the investment. It consistently provides more confidence in my setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR
Specifications
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns with the Browning Invector DS choke system. It is constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, ensuring exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. The “MR” designation indicates a Mid-Range constriction, suitable for engaging targets at moderate distances.
The choke features Carlson’s proprietary Triple Shot Technology (TST), which consists of three graduated rings in the taper section to promote a more gradual constriction of the shot column. This reduces pellet deformation and produces denser, more consistent patterns. The ported design aids in recoil reduction, providing a more comfortable shooting experience. The extended design allows for wrench-free installation and removal, and it also offers muzzle protection.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR excels at producing tight, consistent patterns at mid-range distances. Its performance significantly improves hit probability on waterfowl, particularly when using steel shot. The recoil reduction from the ported design is a welcome benefit, especially during high-volume shooting sessions.
The main strength is its versatility; it handles a wide range of shot types and sizes without any performance degradation. A minor weakness is that the extended design may not be ideal for very tight hunting blinds or dense cover. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional; the 17-4 stainless steel construction feels robust and durable. The extended design provides a secure grip for easy installation and removal. The weight is balanced, without adding unnecessary bulk to the shotgun.
The wrench-less installation makes it incredibly user-friendly; no special tools are required. There’s a minor learning curve in terms of understanding optimal shot selection for specific ranges, but this is easily overcome with a bit of range time.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR is built to last; the high-quality stainless steel construction ensures longevity even with frequent use in harsh conditions. Regular cleaning with a choke tube brush and a light coat of oil is all that is needed to keep it in top condition. It requires minimal maintenance.
Repair, while unlikely to be needed, would likely require professional assistance due to the precision machining involved. However, the Carlson‘s lifetime warranty provides peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR does not come with any accessories. Its design is inherently focused on optimizing shot patterns rather than accommodating external modifications. Carlson’s offers the Cremator series in Close Range and Long Range constrictions, as well as a non-ported version.
While there are no direct accessories for the choke itself, it’s compatible with any 12-gauge Browning Invector DS shotgun. This allows for a wide range of aftermarket options related to the shotgun’s overall setup. The Carlson‘s website also provides a pattern chart to assist in choosing the correct choke for your needs.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR
Pros
- Noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns, particularly at mid-range.
- TST (Triple Shot Technology) reduces pellet deformation for improved downrange performance.
- Ported design offers a slight reduction in felt recoil.
- Constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Wrench-less installation and removal for ease of use.
Cons
- The extended design may not be ideal for extremely tight hunting situations.
- The Mid-Range constriction may not be optimal for all waterfowl hunting scenarios; those requiring very close-range or extremely long-range shots might need additional chokes.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR?
Perfect for: Waterfowl hunters seeking to improve pattern consistency and increase hit probability at mid-range distances. Also great for sporting clays shooters who want a versatile and durable choke tube. It is an ideal upgrade for anyone using a Browning shotgun with the Invector DS system and struggling with inconsistent patterns.
Who should skip this product? Those primarily hunting in very tight cover where a shorter choke tube is needed. Those consistently shooting at extremely close or long ranges might benefit more from a choke specifically designed for those distances.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality choke tube wrench (although not strictly necessary) can be helpful for ensuring a secure installation, especially after extended use. Different brands and loads of shotshells to pattern the choke with, ensuring optimal performance.
Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR has proven to be a valuable addition to my waterfowl hunting setup. The improved pattern consistency and slight recoil reduction make it a worthwhile upgrade over factory chokes. It’s robust, reliable, and delivers consistent performance.
The price is justified by the noticeable improvement in downrange performance and the durability of the product. It is an investment that pays off with increased confidence and higher success rates in the field. The Carlson‘s reputation for quality and the inclusion of a lifetime warranty add to the value proposition.
I would highly recommend the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS MR to any waterfowl hunter using a Browning shotgun with the Invector DS system. If you are looking to enhance your shotgun’s performance and tighten your patterns, this choke is a must-have. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference for yourself.
