The Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified Made a Bold First Impression
After years of relying on the factory choke tubes in my trusty Winchester 20 gauge, I knew it was time for an upgrade. The patterns were inconsistent, and I was losing confidence in my shots, particularly on fast-moving upland game. That’s when I started researching aftermarket choke tubes, specifically a modified choke for versatility. I wanted something that could handle everything from close-range flushing birds to slightly longer shots on clays. The Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified immediately caught my eye because of Carlson’s reputation for quality and reasonable pricing.
My old factory choke tubes were showing significant wear, and I suspected they were contributing to my inconsistent patterns. I was primarily looking for improved shot consistency and a slightly tighter pattern than my factory improved cylinder choke offered. I had considered a Briley choke, renowned for their precision, but the price point was significantly higher. Ultimately, the Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified seemed to strike the right balance between performance and affordability.
The Carlsons choke arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Upon opening, the first thing I noticed was the clean, stainless steel finish. It felt solid and well-made, a stark contrast to the somewhat flimsy feel of my factory chokes. Its weight was comparable to the factory chokes, so I knew it wouldn’t significantly alter the balance of my shotgun.
Compared to a Trulock choke, another popular option, the Carlsons choke seemed to have a slightly smoother internal bore. I chose the Carlsons for its readily available reviews and its slightly lower price. My first impression was positive – this seemed like a well-crafted, no-nonsense choke tube that would perform as advertised. I was excited to test it at the range and in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified was at a local sporting clays course. I wanted to see how it performed on a variety of targets at different distances. The weather was overcast and slightly damp, which can sometimes affect shot patterns. I was using standard 7.5 shot target loads.
The improved consistency was immediately apparent. The clays broke with a satisfying puff of smoke, even on the edge of the pattern. I was consistently hitting targets that I had previously struggled with using my factory improved cylinder choke. The modified constriction seemed perfect for the typical sporting clays distances. There were no issues with installation, and the choke tube seated perfectly flush with the barrel.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified has held up admirably. It has seen action in everything from early-season dove hunts to late-season pheasant outings in wet, muddy conditions. There are no signs of rust or corrosion on the stainless steel finish.
The choke tube remains easy to clean, requiring only a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent after each use. I’ve noticed no degradation in performance over time. Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlsons choke offers superior performance and reliability. It has instilled a newfound confidence in my shooting ability.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified
Specifications
The Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified is designed specifically for Winchester shotguns chambered in 20 gauge. It features a flush-mounted design, meaning it sits even with the end of the barrel. The constriction is modified, with a diameter of .600 inches. This is a versatile choke that offers a balance between pattern density and range. The choke is manufactured from corrosion-resistant 17-4 ph stainless steel.
The stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting durability, even in harsh weather conditions. The modified constriction is ideal for a variety of shooting applications. This includes upland bird hunting, sporting clays, and even some waterfowl hunting over decoys.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified performs exceptionally well. It consistently produces tight, even patterns at typical hunting and sporting clays distances. The modified constriction provides a noticeable increase in pattern density compared to improved cylinder. I have experienced no issues with pattern inconsistencies or malfunctions.
The choke’s strength lies in its versatility and consistent performance. A slight weakness might be that for very close-range shooting (under 20 yards), an improved cylinder or skeet choke might be preferable. However, for most situations, the modified constriction is a perfect compromise. It definitely meets my expectations for a versatile, reliable choke tube.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified features a simple, functional design. The stainless steel construction is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The flush-mounted design ensures a seamless fit with the shotgun barrel.
The choke tube is easy to install and remove using a standard choke tube wrench. There is virtually no learning curve involved in using this choke. It is a straightforward, user-friendly product.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 ph stainless steel construction ensures that the Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified will last for many years with proper care. It is highly resistant to rust and corrosion. Maintenance is simple, requiring only regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent.
With proper care, this choke tube should provide a lifetime of reliable performance. Its robust construction and corrosion-resistant properties make it a durable and long-lasting investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified does not come with any accessories beyond the choke tube itself. However, it is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Winchester shotguns. There are no specific customization options available for this particular choke tube.
Although there are no direct accessories, a quality choke tube wrench is a must-have for easy installation and removal. You can pair this choke with different shot shells to fine-tune your patterns for specific hunting situations.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified
Pros
- Exceptional Value: Offers premium performance at an affordable price point.
- Improved Pattern Density: Significantly tighter patterns compared to factory improved cylinder chokes.
- Versatile Performance: Suitable for a wide range of shooting activities, including upland bird hunting and sporting clays.
- Durable Construction: Made from corrosion-resistant 17-4 ph stainless steel for long-lasting reliability.
- Easy to Clean: Simple maintenance ensures consistent performance.
Cons
- For very close-range shooting, a more open choke (e.g., improved cylinder) might be preferred.
- No included choke tube wrench.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified?
The Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified is perfect for hunters who need a versatile choke tube for various game birds, as well as for sporting clays enthusiasts looking for consistent patterns at moderate distances. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade from factory choke tubes without breaking the bank. This is the go-to choke for anyone who primarily uses their 20 gauge for upland birds.
Someone who primarily hunts waterfowl at long distances, or who exclusively shoots skeet, might want to consider a different choke tube. Waterfowlers will want to look at the Carlson’s extended choke tubes for steel shot and skeet shooters should stick with skeet chokes for that discipline. A must-have accessory is a high-quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal, along with a bore cleaning kit to ensure the choke tube remains in optimal condition.
Conclusion on Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified
The Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified is a fantastic upgrade for any Winchester 20 gauge shotgun. It delivers consistent, reliable performance at a price that is hard to beat. The improved pattern density and versatile modified constriction make it an ideal choice for a wide range of shooting applications.
The price of $16.49 is more than justified by the improved performance and durability compared to factory choke tubes. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Carlsons Winchester Flush Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Modified to anyone looking to enhance the performance of their 20 gauge shotgun without spending a fortune. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!