The Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve cycled through countless choke tubes, each promising denser patterns and reduced recoil. When I first laid eyes on the Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range, I was immediately intrigued by its unique design and claims of enhanced performance.
I needed a choke tube that would consistently deliver tight patterns at extended ranges for dove and quail hunting. My old choke tubes, while functional, often resulted in frustrating misses at distances beyond 30 yards.
The Carlsons Cremator arrived in simple, yet effective packaging. The matte black finish and the pronounced ports gave it a serious, almost aggressive look; the tube felt solid and well-made in my hands. Compared to my previous, more basic choke tubes from Briley and Trulock, the Cremator’s extended design and ported construction immediately stood out. I ultimately chose the Carlsons due to the promise of improved pattern density and recoil reduction through porting.
My initial reaction was definitely positive. The build quality seemed excellent, and I was genuinely excited to see if the performance claims lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range at a local shooting range, patterning it with various 20-gauge loads. The weather was clear and sunny with a slight breeze, providing ideal testing conditions.
The choke tube performed admirably with noticeable pattern improvement at 40 yards compared to a standard modified choke. There was a slight but perceptible reduction in muzzle jump. No issues arose during the initial testing, and installation was quick and easy.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use during dove and quail season, the Carlsons Cremator has proven to be a reliable performer. The tube has held up well to repeated use, showing only minor cosmetic wear on the finish.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition. Compared to my previous experiences with other choke tubes, the Carlsons Cremator has delivered more consistent and denser patterns, resulting in cleaner kills and fewer wounded birds.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range
Specifications
- The Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range is designed specifically for Winchester threaded 20-gauge shotguns. Its specific diameter is .587.
- This choke tube features Carlson’s Triple Shot Technology (TST), which utilizes three graduated rings to reduce pellet deformation. This is intended to provide denser patterns and fewer flyers.
- It is a ported choke tube, designed to reduce muzzle jump and recoil. The ports do this by redirecting gasses upward and backward.
- The choke is constructed from premium 17-4 stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance. This material choice ensures a long lifespan.
- It is an extended choke tube, providing a longer parallel section for tighter patterns, wrench-less installation, and muzzle protection. The extended design also makes it easy to switch tubes quickly.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the choke’s performance and longevity. The TST technology and porting contribute to improved pattern density and reduced recoil, while the stainless steel construction ensures the tube can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range performs its job exceptionally well, providing consistent, tight patterns at extended distances. The porting noticeably reduces muzzle jump, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
The main strength is its ability to deliver denser patterns at longer ranges, making it ideal for hunting situations where longer shots are common. The only minor weakness is the increased muzzle report due to the porting, though this is a small price to pay for the improved performance. The Cremator definitely exceeds my expectations, providing a noticeable advantage over standard choke tubes.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Cremator boasts excellent build quality, constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel. Its weight is negligible and it feels solid and well-made.
The installation is user-friendly, requiring no tools. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures the Carlsons Cremator is built to last. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
The material is resistant to rust and corrosion. This ensures it will maintain its performance over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range does not come with additional accessories. The choke tube is designed for specific Winchester threaded 20-gauge shotguns, limiting direct customization options.
It is compatible with most 20-gauge shotgun cleaning kits and choke tube wrenches, although the wrench-less design minimizes the need for the latter. The ability to easily switch choke tubes allows you to adapt to different hunting scenarios.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: The Carlson’s TST technology delivers noticeably tighter patterns at extended ranges.
- Reduced Recoil: The ported design effectively reduces muzzle jump, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
- Durable Construction: Made from 17-4 stainless steel, the choke tube is built to last.
- Easy Installation: The wrench-less design allows for quick and easy installation and removal.
- Enhanced Muzzle Protection: The extended design protects the muzzle from damage.
Cons
- Increased Muzzle Report: The porting increases the noise level, which may be a concern for some shooters.
- Limited Customization: Designed specifically for Winchester threaded 20-gauge shotguns, limiting compatibility with other brands.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range?
The Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range is perfect for hunters who frequently take shots at longer ranges, such as dove and quail hunters. It also benefits competitive shooters seeking tighter patterns and reduced recoil.
This product might not be ideal for shooters who primarily hunt in close-range environments, where a more open choke is preferred. Similarly, those sensitive to increased noise levels might want to consider a non-ported option. A quality choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal, although the wrench-less design is a plus.
Conclusion on Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range
The Carlsons Winchester Cremator Ported Choke Tube 20 Gauge, Long Range is a well-designed and effective choke tube that delivers on its promises. The improved pattern density and reduced recoil make it a valuable addition to any hunter’s or competitive shooter’s arsenal.
At $48.49, the price is justified by the noticeable performance gains and durable construction. I would highly recommend this choke tube to anyone looking to improve their accuracy and reduce recoil in their 20-gauge Winchester shotgun. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the Carlsons Cremator difference!