Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga Review

The Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga Made a Bold First Impression

The Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga is a seemingly simple accessory, but its impact on shotgun performance is anything but. Designed by Beretta, this choke tube promises enhanced corrosion resistance and the ability to withstand the rigors of steel shot, making it a compelling option for shooters who demand reliability and versatility. But does it live up to the hype?

I was primarily seeking a choke tube that would allow me to confidently use steel shot in my Beretta A400 Xtreme, without fear of damaging the barrel. Steel shot is increasingly required on the waterfowl fields I hunt, so a reliable choke capable of handling it was paramount.

My first impression upon unboxing the Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga was that it appeared robust and well-machined. The nickel-alloy coating gave it a sleek look and a feeling of quality. I had considered aftermarket chokes from Carlson’s and Briley, but ultimately chose the Beretta choke for its guaranteed compatibility and the peace of mind that comes with using a factory part. My initial excitement stemmed from knowing I could now use steel shot with confidence.

Real-World Testing: Putting Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga at my local sporting clays range and on a duck hunt in the marsh. I wanted to see how the choke performed with lead target loads and steel waterfowl loads in various conditions. The weather during my duck hunt was particularly harsh, with driving rain and mud everywhere.

The choke performed admirably in both scenarios. I noticed a consistent pattern with both lead and steel shot, and it was very easy to install using the included choke wrench. There were no noticeable issues or surprises after my first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga has held up extremely well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, even after prolonged exposure to moisture. I clean the choke after each use, which is a simple process involving a brush and solvent.

The performance has remained consistent, and I have experienced no issues with pattern degradation or loosening of the choke tube. Compared to some aftermarket chokes I have used in the past, the Beretta choke feels significantly more robust and reliable.

Breaking Down the Features of Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga

Specifications

• Fits Beretta A400 Xtreme, A400 Xplor, A400 Xcel, 690, 692, DT11, A300 Xtrema, SV10, and certain 686 Silver Pigeon 1 Sporting models. This wide compatibility ensures versatility across various Beretta shotgun models.
• Manufactured from high-strength steel and finished in a nickel-alloy coating. This construction provides exceptional durability and corrosion resistance, even in harsh environments.
• Fully interchangeable on all Beretta barrels threaded for Optima-Choke® HP. This feature allows for easy swapping of chokes to suit different shooting scenarios.

These specifications are crucial because they ensure the choke tube can withstand the pressure and abrasion of steel shot, while also providing a long service life. The nickel-alloy coating is particularly important in preventing rust and corrosion, which can significantly impact performance and longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga performs its job flawlessly. It provides consistent and reliable patterns with both lead and steel shot. The choke’s strengths lie in its durability and ease of use, although it is important to ensure the choke tube is correctly installed and tightened.

The choke meets my expectations for a factory Beretta product, delivering reliable performance and consistent patterns.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga is excellent. The materials used are high-quality, and the choke feels solid and well-made. The flush design ensures it doesn’t protrude beyond the end of the barrel, maintaining the shotgun’s aesthetics.

The choke is user-friendly, requiring only a choke wrench for installation and removal. There is virtually no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

The Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga is built to last. The high-strength steel construction and nickel-alloy coating provide excellent protection against wear and tear. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning with a brush and solvent.

With proper care, this choke tube should provide many years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga is a relatively simple accessory and does not come with many additional accessories. However, it is compatible with a variety of choke wrenches designed for Beretta Optima-Choke HP tubes. There aren’t really any customization options beyond selecting the constriction that is appropriate for your needs.

Using a high-quality choke wrench is a must to prevent damage during installation and removal.

Pros and Cons of Beretta Choke Tube OptimaChoke HP Flush 12Ga