The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT Made a Bold First Impression
Having spent over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances that separate the truly exceptional from the merely adequate. Today, we’re diving into the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT, a choke tube designed to enhance the performance of your Beretta shotgun. This seemingly simple accessory promises to refine your shot patterns and improve your overall shooting experience.
I needed a reliable choke tube that would provide consistent, improved patterns at moderate ranges for both upland bird hunting and occasional sporting clays. My aging factory choke was showing its limitations. The need for tighter, more predictable patterns led me down the path to the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT.
Upon unboxing, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT presents a sleek, understated appearance. The blued finish is smooth and even, hinting at quality craftsmanship. Its weight is negligible, as expected, and it threads easily, suggesting a precise fit.
Compared to a standard flush-mounted choke, like the factory-included modified choke, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT offers an extended design. This extension provides a longer internal taper, theoretically improving pattern consistency. I chose this Beretta choke over aftermarket options due to Beretta’s reputation for quality and precise manufacturing tolerances.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The build quality appeared solid, but the true test would come at the range. Could this choke tube truly deliver on its promise of enhanced performance?
Real-World Testing: Putting Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT was at a local sporting clays range. The weather was mild with a slight breeze, providing decent conditions for testing. I primarily used 12-gauge, 1 1/8 oz, #7.5 shot target loads.
The most immediate impression was the consistent patterns it produced at the station distances averaging around 35 yards. Targets broke more decisively and consistently than I was accustomed to with my old choke. The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT seemed to deliver a denser, more even pattern.
There were no immediate issues. The choke threaded in smoothly and remained secure throughout the entire session. It was easy to install and remove using a standard choke wrench.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, spanning multiple trips to the range and a couple of upland bird hunts, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT continues to impress. It holds up well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion despite exposure to varying weather conditions.
The blued finish shows minor wear near the muzzle, which is expected. Cleaning is simple: a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in excellent condition. Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket chokes on other shotguns, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT has proven more reliable and consistent in its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT
Specifications
The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT is a 12-gauge choke tube, specifically designed for shotguns with the Optima-Choke HP system. It features a Modified constriction, falling between Improved Cylinder and Full chokes. Its extended design adds approximately 0.75 inches beyond the end of the barrel.
The choke is constructed from high-strength steel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion. The blued finish offers additional protection and a sleek aesthetic. These specifications are important because they dictate the shot pattern density and effective range. A Modified choke is versatile, suitable for a variety of applications, from close-range upland hunting to mid-range sporting clays.
Performance & Functionality
The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT excels in producing consistent and effective patterns at moderate ranges. It provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density compared to cylinder or improved cylinder chokes. This results in more broken targets and cleaner kills.
The primary strength lies in its versatility and reliability. It performs consistently across various shot sizes and target types. One potential area for improvement is the lack of markings indicating the choke constriction on the extended portion. This requires users to consult the markings on the portion of the choke that sits inside the barrel. It definitely meets my expectations for a choke in the Modified range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT is designed for ease of use and durability. The high-strength steel construction provides a robust feel. The external extension makes it easier to grip for installation and removal.
There is no learning curve. It functions as expected, threading smoothly and securely into compatible Beretta shotguns.
Durability & Maintenance
The choke’s steel construction and blued finish ensure long-lasting performance. Proper cleaning and light lubrication after use is all that’s needed. The build quality suggests it will withstand years of use with minimal wear and tear.
It’s a simple piece of equipment. There is really nothing to repair, provided it is properly installed and not abused.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT doesn’t come with accessories. However, it is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Optima-Choke HP systems. While there are no direct customization options for the choke itself, you can adjust your shotgun’s performance by selecting different choke constrictions for various shooting scenarios.
This allows for a high degree of versatility using other Optima-Choke HP system chokes such as Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Light Modified, Improved Modified, and Full constrictions. The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT is also compatible with aftermarket choke tubes designed for the Optima-Choke HP system from brands like Briley and Carlson’s.
Pros and Cons of Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT
Pros
- Provides consistent, dense shot patterns at moderate ranges.
- Durable steel construction with a corrosion-resistant blued finish.
- Easy to install and remove with a standard choke wrench.
- Noticeably improves target breaks and hunting success compared to less constricted chokes.
- Versatile for various shooting disciplines, including sporting clays, trap, and upland hunting.
Cons
- The choke constriction markings are located on the internal portion, not the extended portion.
- The blued finish may show wear over time with extensive use.
Who Should Buy Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT?
The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT is perfect for hunters and sporting clay enthusiasts looking to improve their shot patterns at moderate ranges. It’s an ideal upgrade for those who want a reliable, versatile choke tube. Anyone who appreciates quality manufacturing and dependable performance will benefit.
Those who primarily shoot at very close ranges (e.g., skeet) or extremely long ranges (e.g., waterfowl hunting with steel shot) might find other choke constrictions more suitable. If you only shoot one shell size such as buckshot, then a specialized choke would likely be a better fit. A must-have accessory is a good choke tube wrench.
Conclusion on Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT
The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM EXT delivers on its promise of enhanced shot patterns and improved shooting performance. The price of $32.99 is justified by its quality construction, consistent performance, and noticeable impact on target breaks and hunting success. I would absolutely recommend it.
This choke tube offers a simple yet effective way to upgrade your Beretta shotgun and elevate your shooting experience. Make the investment. You will not be disappointed.