The Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 isn’t the sexiest piece of tactical gear, let’s be honest. It’s a choke tube, a small, unassuming cylinder designed to do one thing, and do it well: tighten your shot pattern. I’ve always been a believer that even the smallest component can make or break a successful hunt, and I approached this choke tube with that mindset.
I’ve been primarily focused on improving my turkey hunting game this season, specifically bagging those long-bearded toms at further distances. The factory-installed modified choke in my trusty Browning Silver Hunter just wasn’t cutting it beyond 30 yards. So, I began my search for a choke tube that would give me a denser pattern at longer ranges, while still being compatible with both steel and lead shot, because versatility is key.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the Carlson’s choke tube’s simple, no-frills design. The blued finish was clean and even, and the threads looked precisely cut. Holding it, the steel felt substantial and well-machined, inspiring confidence.
I had been considering a Patternmaster Code Black Turkey choke and a Briley Spectrum choke tube before ultimately settling on the Carlson’s. The Patternmaster, while highly regarded, came with a significantly higher price tag, and some users reported issues with certain wad types. The Briley, known for its excellent quality, was also pricier and a bit more specialized. The Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 struck me as the best value proposition; a reliable, versatile choke tube at an accessible price point.
My initial impression was one of quiet confidence. This choke tube wasn’t flashy or groundbreaking, but it felt like a well-made, practical tool that would get the job done. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could deliver on its promise of tighter patterns.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 was at my local shooting range, primarily to pattern my shotgun with different loads. The weather was typical for early spring: overcast, slightly breezy, and a bit damp. I set up targets at 20, 30, and 40 yards to get a feel for the choke’s performance at varying distances.
Installation was a breeze; the threads engaged smoothly, and the choke tightened securely with my choke wrench. The difference in pattern density compared to my old modified choke was immediately noticeable. At 30 yards, the pattern was noticeably tighter, with fewer stray pellets. However, at 20 yards, the pattern was almost too tight, creating a very small point of impact, which could be problematic for closer shots.
There were no initial issues – the choke tube performed as expected, providing a significantly tighter pattern than my previous choke. The only surprise was just how tight the pattern was at close range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple trips to the range and a few unsuccessful (but educational) turkey hunts, the Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 continues to perform reliably. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, using a variety of lead and steel shot loads, and it shows no signs of wear and tear.
The blued finish has held up well, even after being exposed to some wet conditions. Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent keeps it in top shape. It’s imperative to clean your choke tubes regularly to prevent buildup and maintain optimal performance.
Compared to my previous experience with more open chokes, the Carlson’s definitely provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density at longer ranges, extending my effective range by at least 10 yards. However, the trade-off is a less forgiving pattern at closer distances, requiring more precise aiming. This is the crucial element to consider when selecting a choke.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595
Specifications
- Compatibility: Designed for Browning Invector Plus 20ga shotguns. This ensures a proper fit and reliable performance.
- Constriction: .595″. This measurement represents the internal diameter of the choke tube at its narrowest point, dictating the tightness of the shot pattern.
- Choke Designation: Extra Full. This designation signifies a very tight pattern, ideal for long-range shots.
- Material: Steel. The steel construction provides durability and the ability to handle both steel and lead shot.
- Finish: Blued. The blued finish helps protect against corrosion.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the choke tube’s performance. The extra full constriction ensures a tight pattern at longer ranges, while the steel construction allows for versatility in ammunition selection. The Invector Plus compatibility means it seamlessly integrates with compatible Browning shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 excels at tightening shot patterns, making it ideal for hunting applications where long-range accuracy is crucial. It consistently delivers dense patterns at 40 yards and beyond, greatly increasing the odds of a successful shot on distant targets.
Its strength lies in its ability to extend the effective range of a 20-gauge shotgun. However, its weakness is its limited versatility at close ranges due to the extremely tight pattern. The choke meets and even exceeds expectations for long-range performance, but requires careful consideration of shot distance and aiming precision.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 features a simple, flush-mounted design that doesn’t extend beyond the end of the barrel. The steel material is robust and inspires confidence, while the blued finish gives it a classic look.
The choke tube is easy to install and remove with a standard choke wrench. There is virtually no learning curve, making it accessible to shooters of all skill levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction of the Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 suggests it will last for many years with proper care. The blued finish provides some protection against corrosion, but regular cleaning and oiling are essential to prevent rust.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a bore brush, solvent, and gun oil. The simplicity of the design ensures that there are no complicated parts to break or require specialized maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 itself doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it is a standalone product. However, it is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Browning Invector Plus choke tubes.
There are no real customization options for this specific choke tube, but it allows users to customize their shotgun’s pattern for different hunting scenarios. Its real “customization” comes into play when selecting different ammo.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595
Pros
- Extremely tight patterns at longer ranges.
- Compatible with both steel and lead shot.
- Durable steel construction.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Pattern is too tight for close-range shooting.
- Limited versatility compared to more open chokes.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595?
The Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 is perfect for turkey hunters, waterfowl hunters engaging in longer-range shots, and anyone who needs a tight pattern for specific target applications. It benefits shooters who prioritize accuracy at extended distances and are willing to adjust their aiming accordingly.
This choke tube is not ideal for upland bird hunters who typically engage targets at closer ranges, or for skeet and trap shooters who need a wider pattern. For those scenarios, a more open choke is better suited. A quality choke wrench is a must-have accessory for installing and removing the choke tube safely.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595
The Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 is a well-made, reliable choke tube that delivers on its promise of tight patterns at longer ranges. At a price of $18.99, it represents an excellent value for the money, providing a significant performance boost without breaking the bank.
I would definitely recommend this choke tube to anyone looking to extend the effective range of their 20-gauge shotgun and is hunting game where a tight pattern is desired, such as turkey. If you’re after longer-range capabilities, grab a Carlson’s Flush Extra Full Choke Tube for Browning Invector Plus 20ga .595 and put those longer shots within your kill zone!