Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS Review

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless shotgun chokes come and go. However, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS immediately caught my eye. This isn’t just another choke tube; it promises to enhance the performance of your Beretta shotgun with its improved cylinder constriction and flush fit.

I was looking for a choke that offered a balance between spread and range for upland bird hunting. Many aftermarket chokes protrude from the barrel, creating an unbalanced feel. The OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS promised a flush fit, and I was eager to test if it lived up to the hype.

Upon unboxing, I was impressed by the clean, minimalist design. The choke tube felt solid and well-machined, hinting at good build quality. Its simple design spoke to a commitment to functionality over flashy aesthetics.

Compared to a Briley extended choke and a Carlson’s ported choke I own, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS stood out for its streamlined profile. I chose the Beretta choke because I value a clean look and snag-free performance in dense brush. My initial excitement was high – the promise of improved patterns and a seamless fit had me itching to get to the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS at my local sporting clays range and during a pheasant hunt in South Dakota. The sporting clays range provided a controlled environment to evaluate pattern density, and the pheasant hunt offered real-world conditions for assessing overall performance. The weather was dry at the range, but the hunt involved varying conditions, from sunshine to light rain.

The OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS was easy to install and required no special tools. Pointing felt natural and unhindered. I experienced no issues with the choke loosening during the day.

I did observe a slightly wider pattern at 30 yards compared to a modified choke. This was expected with an improved cylinder choke, and it proved beneficial for closer-range shots at flushing birds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS continues to perform reliably. There are no signs of loosening or pattern degradation. The finish remains intact, showing good resistance to wear and tear from brush and cleaning solvents.

Maintenance is straightforward; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it clean. The choke has shown itself to be resistant to rust. This is a marked improvement from some cheaper chokes I’ve owned that require constant vigilance.

This choke has consistently delivered excellent patterns at typical upland hunting distances, outperforming my previous cylinder bore choke in pattern density. It instilled greater confidence in my shots.

Breaking Down the Features of Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS

Specifications

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS is an improved cylinder choke tube designed for Beretta 12-gauge shotguns that utilize the Optima-Choke system. It features a flush-mounted design, meaning it does not extend beyond the end of the barrel. The price is approximately $29.99.

The improved cylinder constriction provides a versatile balance between spread and range. This constriction is ideal for close-to-medium-range shooting situations. The flush-mount design minimizes the risk of snagging on brush and keeps the shotgun’s balance consistent.

Performance & Functionality

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS excels at delivering consistent, evenly distributed patterns at distances up to 30 yards. This makes it exceptionally well-suited for upland bird hunting and close-range sporting clays. The improved cylinder constriction provides a noticeable increase in pattern density compared to a cylinder bore choke.

While it is not ideal for long-range shots, its strength lies in its versatility at typical hunting distances. There are no discernible functional weaknesses, and it performs precisely as expected. It exceeded my expectations for a choke in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS is well-machined from durable steel with a clean, black finish. Its flush-mounted design maintains the shotgun’s original balance and aesthetics. Installation and removal are easy and require no specialized tools.

The choke threads smoothly into the barrel. There’s no learning curve, making it suitable for shooters of all skill levels.

Durability & Maintenance

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS is constructed to withstand the rigors of regular use. Its durable steel construction and corrosion-resistant finish ensure a long service life with proper care. Regular cleaning after use is the key to maintaining its performance and preventing rust buildup.

Maintenance involves simply cleaning the choke with a bore brush and solvent after each use. It can be performed quickly and easily in the field.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS itself doesn’t require any specific accessories, as it is a standalone choke tube. However, a choke tube wrench for easy removal and installation is a worthwhile addition. The Beretta Optima-Choke system is widely supported, so finding compatible choke wrenches is easy.

You could use different chokes for different hunting situations. The OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS can be part of a larger set of chokes to match specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IC FLS