The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA Made a Bold First Impression
The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA, specifically the Browning Invector Modified Cylinder choke, isn’t just another piece of shotgun hardware. It’s a tool designed to enhance your shotgun’s performance in the field, promising improved patterns and greater range. As someone who’s spent years chasing waterfowl and upland game, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that can give me an edge.
My older Browning A-5, a trusty companion for countless hunts, had developed a slight issue with its original choke, patterns becoming a bit inconsistent at longer ranges. I’d heard whispers about KICKS chokes from fellow hunters, praising their quality and the tighter patterns they produced. I needed a reliable replacement that would breathe new life into my beloved 10-gauge and extend its effective range without sacrificing close-range performance.
Unboxing the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. Machined from high-quality steel, it felt solid and well-made. The matte finish was clean, and the threading looked precise, promising a snug fit in my shotgun barrel. Initial comparison with my factory chokes revealed a noticeable difference in the internal design, with the KICKS choke featuring a more gradual constriction.
I initially considered a Patternmaster choke, known for its wad-stripping design, and a Briley choke, renowned for its precision machining. Ultimately, the positive reviews and the promise of improved patterns with the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA, without the hefty price tag of Briley, swayed my decision. My first impression was one of cautious optimism, eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA was a duck hunt on a sprawling marsh. The weather was typical for late season: cold, with a light drizzle and a persistent wind. I was using a mix of 2 ¾” and 3″ steel shot loads, ranging from #2 to BB.
The choke installed easily into my Browning A-5. The difference in performance was immediately noticeable. At 30-40 yards, where my old choke produced patchy patterns, the KICKS choke delivered a much tighter, more consistent spread. The modified cylinder designation proved true, offering a good balance between pattern density and spread, ideal for decoying ducks. I experienced no issues with installation or removal.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intensive use during duck and goose season, the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA has proven its worth. It has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or damage despite being exposed to harsh weather and regular cleaning. The choke remains easy to clean. A quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent is all it takes to remove any residue.
Compared to my previous hunting experiences with the factory choke, the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA significantly improved my success rate at longer ranges. While it didn’t magically transform my shotgun into a long-range cannon, it did extend my effective range by a good 10-15 yards, providing more confidence in those crucial shots. It definitely outperforms the factory choke it replaced.
Breaking Down the Features of KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA
Specifications
- Product Name: KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA
- Configuration: Browning Invector (Standard Invector, not Invector-Plus)
- Gauge: 10 Gauge
- Constriction: Modified Cylinder
- Material: Steel
- Finish: Matte Black
- Compatibility: Browning shotguns with standard Invector choke system (10GA)
- Purpose: Designed for waterfowl and upland game hunting, providing improved patterns and range.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the choke’s performance and suitability for different hunting situations. The Modified Cylinder constriction offers a versatile pattern suitable for a wide range of distances, making it a good all-around choice. The steel construction ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, while compatibility with the Browning Invector system guarantees a proper fit.
Performance & Functionality
The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA performs admirably, delivering consistent patterns that are noticeably tighter than those produced by a standard cylinder choke. Accuracy is improved, especially at distances where a more open choke would result in a scattered spread. Reliability has been excellent, with no issues encountered during installation, use, or removal.
The choke’s strength lies in its ability to provide a balanced pattern, suitable for both close-range and mid-range shots. A potential weakness might be that, for extremely long-range shots (beyond 50 yards), a tighter choke constriction, such as a full or extra full choke, might be preferable. Overall, the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA meets and exceeds expectations for a modified cylinder choke.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA feeling solid and well-made. The materials used appear to be of high quality, contributing to the choke’s durability. Ergonomically, it’s a simple, functional design that prioritizes performance over aesthetics.
The choke is user-friendly and requires no special tools or expertise to install or remove. There is no learning curve. Simply screw it into the barrel using a choke wrench.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust steel construction, the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA should last for many years with proper care. It is reasonably easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is sufficient to prevent rust and corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with standard choke wrenches designed for Browning Invector chokes. There are no specific customization options available for the choke itself, as it is a fixed constriction design.
Pros and Cons of KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: Delivers noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns compared to a standard cylinder choke.
- Extended Effective Range: Increases the effective range of your shotgun by 10-15 yards, providing more confidence in longer shots.
- Durable Construction: Machined from high-quality steel for long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion.
- Easy to Install and Maintain: Simple to install and remove with a standard choke wrench, and easy to clean with basic gun cleaning supplies.
- Versatile Performance: The Modified Cylinder constriction offers a good balance for both close-range and mid-range shots.
Cons
- A tighter choke constriction may be better for extremely long-range shots.
- No included choke wrench.
Who Should Buy KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA?
The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA is perfect for waterfowl hunters and upland game hunters who want to improve the pattern density and effective range of their Browning shotgun with a standard Invector choke system. This choke is also great for those who are looking for a reliable and durable choke that will perform consistently in the field.
Those who primarily hunt at very close ranges (inside 20 yards) or who require extremely tight patterns for long-range shooting might consider other choke options. A cylinder choke may be more suitable for close-range encounters, while a full or extra full choke might be preferable for long-distance shots. A choke wrench is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA
The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA is a worthwhile investment for any hunter looking to enhance their shotgun’s performance. It delivers on its promise of improved patterns and extended range, providing a noticeable advantage in the field. The price is justified by the improved performance and durability of the product.
I would personally recommend the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA to any waterfowl or upland game hunter who wants to get the most out of their Browning shotgun. If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and missed opportunities, give the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 10GA a try. You won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!
