First Impressions of Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials
The Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials promise a simple solution to a common problem: keeping expensive choke tubes safe, organized, and ready for action. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear enthusiast, I’ve seen too many choke tubes dinged, scratched, or misplaced in the bottom of range bags. The promise of clutter-free organization and protection for my valuable chokes immediately piqued my interest.
I was specifically looking for a way to protect my extended chokes. I needed a system that prevented cross-threading and kept them clean. The Allen vials appeared to offer exactly that, presenting a practical solution at a very affordable price.
Upon receiving the Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials, the first thing I noticed was their simplicity. They resembled the old film canisters, clear PVC tubes with pressure-fit lids. The material felt sturdy enough for its purpose, though certainly not indestructible. I was eager to swap out my current system of loosely wrapping my chokes in oily rags.
Compared to more elaborate choke tube cases or organizers with individual compartments, the Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials are undeniably basic. However, they are also significantly cheaper and take up less space. I considered options like hard-sided cases with foam inserts, but those were bulkier and, frankly, overkill for my needs. The Allen vials offered a more minimalist approach that I appreciated.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials seemed like a practical and affordable solution, but I was curious to see how well they would hold up in the field. I hoped they would live up to their promise of protection and organization.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials was at my local sporting clays range. I often swap chokes multiple times during a round to adjust to the varying target presentations. I typically shoot in all weather conditions.
The vials were easy to identify in my shooting bag due to their clear design. I particularly appreciated being able to quickly grab the correct choke without having to rummage through a pile of oily rags. The Allen vials made the process smoother and more efficient.
I encountered no problems when using the vials in slightly damp conditions. The pressure-fit lids kept moisture out and prevented rust formation on my chokes. The vials themselves showed no signs of damage or degradation after being handled with dirty and slightly wet hands.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials have proven to be surprisingly durable. While the PVC material is not impervious to scratches, it has held up well to the rigors of being tossed around in my shooting bag. I did experience a tiny split at the top of the tube when attempting to open one vial with cold, stiff hands, but that was the only damage I’ve incurred.
The lids still provide a snug fit, keeping the chokes secure and protected. I’ve even dropped a vial or two on hard surfaces without any catastrophic results. The vials are simple to clean.
Compared to my previous method of simply wrapping my chokes in oily rags, the Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials offer a significant improvement in both organization and protection. My chokes are no longer covered in grit or at risk of being damaged. Overall, the Allen vials have exceeded my expectations for a product in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials
Specifications
Manufacturer: Allen is a well-known name in the shooting and outdoor industry, providing affordable and reliable gear. Allen provides confidence when considering gear for rough environments.
Quantity: The pack includes three individual vials, allowing you to store a small selection of your most-used chokes. This is enough for most sporting clay rounds.
Fabric/Material: The vials are made from clear PVC plastic, which is lightweight and reasonably durable. The PVC material allows easy identification of the choke inside.
Color: The clear color allows for quick and easy identification of the choke tube inside without needing to open the vial. The clear color also makes it easier to spot in a crowded range bag.
Dimensions: Each vial measures 4.12 x 1 x 1 inches, providing ample space for most extended 12-gauge choke tubes. These dimensions allow easy storage in a shooting bag or vest.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials is to protect and organize choke tubes, and they perform this task admirably. The snug fit of the lids prevents dust, debris, and moisture from reaching the choke tubes, keeping them clean and ready for use. The vials are sized appropriately for most extended chokes, eliminating any concerns about compatibility.
The vials are not entirely waterproof, but they provide adequate protection against light rain or splashes. I have experienced no issues with rust or corrosion on my choke tubes since switching to the Allen vials. The design is simple and effective, with no unnecessary frills or complications.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials is undeniably utilitarian. The clear plastic and film-container style provide a no-nonsense approach to choke tube storage. The compact size of the vials makes them easy to store and transport.
The light weight of the PVC material does not add noticeable bulk to your shooting bag. The vials are easy to grip and open, even with gloved hands.
Durability & Maintenance
While the PVC material is not as robust as metal or high-density polymer, it is surprisingly durable for its price point. With reasonable care, the Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials should last for several seasons of regular use. Cleaning is as simple as rinsing the vials with soap and water and allowing them to air dry.
The pressure-fit lids may eventually loosen over time, but they can be easily replaced if necessary. The vials are resistant to most common cleaning solvents and oils.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials are a standalone product and do not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available, but their simplicity is part of their appeal. The vials are compatible with any 12-gauge choke tube that fits within their dimensions, regardless of brand.
You can label the vials with permanent markers to further improve organization. I used a label maker to mark each vial with the specific choke constriction.
Pros and Cons of Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials
Pros
- Affordable price point makes them accessible to all shooters.
- Effective protection against dust, debris, and moisture.
- Clear design allows for easy identification of choke tubes.
- Compact size minimizes storage space in your shooting bag.
- Durable PVC construction holds up well to regular use.
Cons
- PVC material not as robust as metal or high-density polymer.
- Pressure-fit lids may loosen over time.
- Not completely waterproof.
Who Should Buy Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials?
The Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials are perfect for shotgun shooters who want an affordable and effective way to protect and organize their choke tubes. This includes hunters, sporting clay enthusiasts, and recreational shooters. Anyone who values keeping their gear in good condition will appreciate the simplicity and practicality of these vials.
Those who require a completely waterproof storage solution or prefer a more rugged, heavy-duty case may want to consider other options. Shooters who own a large number of choke tubes may find that the three-pack is insufficient for their needs.
A must-have accessory is a small label maker to identify chokes quickly and easily. I also recommend using a high-quality gun oil to keep the choke threads lubricated before storing them in the vials.
Conclusion on Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials
The Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials offer a simple, affordable, and effective solution for protecting and organizing choke tubes. While they may not be the most glamorous or feature-rich option on the market, they excel at their primary task. The price is certainly justified considering the protection that the vials provide to much more expensive chokes.
I would personally recommend the Allen 12 Gauge Choke Tube Vials to any shotgun shooter looking for a practical and budget-friendly storage solution. Don’t let your expensive choke tubes rattle around unprotected in your range bag. Invest in a set of Allen vials and keep your gear safe, organized, and ready for action.