Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS Review

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

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS choke tube is a seemingly simple piece of metal, yet it plays a crucial role in shotgun performance. It promises to deliver an Improved Modified pattern, a sweet spot for many hunting and sporting applications. My journey to this particular choke tube started with a frustrating realization: my factory-supplied chokes were inconsistent and limiting my effective range, especially when targeting upland birds and breaking clays at longer distances.

Unboxing the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS, the first thing I noticed was its clean, flush-fitting design. It appeared well-machined, with a smooth, polished surface, a welcome change from some of the cheaper, roughly finished aftermarket chokes I’ve encountered over the years. The weight felt substantial enough to inspire confidence, hinting at quality materials and construction. It certainly felt a step up from the standard chokes that come with many shotguns.

Compared to extended choke tubes that protrude beyond the barrel, offering easier changing but potentially snagging in brush, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS offers a streamlined profile. While extended chokes from companies like Carlson’s or Briley might offer more specialized patterning options, the flush-mounted design of the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS appealed to my preference for a clean and unobtrusive setup. I was looking for reliability and consistent performance above all else, hoping this choke would become my go-to for diverse shooting scenarios.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It wasn’t flashy or revolutionary, but the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS seemed to embody the Beretta reputation for quality and precision. Would it live up to the hype and deliver the consistent patterns I craved? Only time and testing would tell.

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

First Use Experience

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS was first tested at my local sporting clays range. I used a Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus, a shotgun I’m intimately familiar with, and various 12-gauge loads, from light target loads to heavier game loads. The weather was cooperative, with a slight breeze and clear skies, providing ideal conditions for evaluating the choke’s performance.

The most noticeable difference was the tighter, more consistent patterns compared to the factory-supplied modified choke. Clays that previously escaped with a chip were now consistently broken into dust. The Improved Modified constriction seemed perfectly calibrated for the distances presented on the sporting clays course. No issues were encountered during the initial use, and the choke threaded smoothly into the barrel without any binding.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple trips to the sporting clays range and a few upland bird hunts, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS has proven to be a reliable performer. It has consistently delivered tight, even patterns with a variety of loads. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to hundreds of rounds and frequent cleaning.

Maintenance is simple: a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent after each use keeps it clean and functioning optimally. Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket chokes that exhibited inconsistent patterns or required frequent adjustments, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS has been a refreshing change. It simply performs as advertised, enhancing my confidence and improving my shooting performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS

Specifications

• Caliber: 12 Gauge. The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns.
• Constriction: Improved Modified (IM). This offers a tighter pattern than Modified but more open than Full.
• Type: Flush-mounted. This means it does not extend beyond the end of the shotgun barrel.
• Material: High-quality steel. This ensures durability and resistance to corrosion.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the pattern density and effective range of the shotgun. The Improved Modified constriction is ideal for achieving consistent breaks on clays at medium distances and for ethical shots on game birds at similar ranges. The flush-mounted design minimizes snagging and maintains the shotgun’s balance.

Performance & Functionality

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS excels at its primary function: consistently producing Improved Modified patterns. At the range, I consistently achieved dense, even patterns at 30-40 yards with various target and field loads. This translates to more broken clays and cleaner kills in the field.

The main strength of this choke is its consistency. It simply performs as expected, round after round. A potential weakness, common to all flush-mounted chokes, is the need for a choke wrench to change it, which can be inconvenient in the field. It meets expectations and even exceeds them by providing a reliable and predictable pattern that inspires confidence.

Design & Ergonomics

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS features a simple, functional design. The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a smooth finish. The weight is negligible, as it’s a small, internal component.

It’s incredibly user-friendly; simply screw it in using a choke wrench. There is no real learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The high-quality steel construction ensures the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS is built to last. With proper care and cleaning, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone component. However, it’s compatible with any Beretta Optima-Choke HP compatible shotgun.

While not a customization option per se, its compatibility with various Beretta shotguns allows users to tailor their choke selection to different shooting disciplines and game types. The Beretta Optima-Choke HP system is widely supported, making it easy to find replacement wrenches and cleaning tools.

Pros and Cons of Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS

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Who Should Buy Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS?

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS is perfect for: hunters targeting upland birds and waterfowl at moderate ranges, sporting clays enthusiasts looking for consistent patterns on mid-range targets, and anyone seeking a reliable, flush-mounted choke tube for their Beretta Optima-Choke HP shotgun.

This product might not be ideal for shooters who frequently need to change chokes in the field, as the requirement for a choke wrench can be inconvenient. Those seeking specialized patterns beyond Improved Modified might also consider extended choke tubes with more aggressive constrictions.

A must-have accessory is a reliable choke wrench. A good choke tube case for storage would also be beneficial.

Conclusion on Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS

The Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS is a simple yet effective choke tube that delivers on its promise of consistent Improved Modified patterns. The price of $29.99 is justified by the quality of construction, reliable performance, and the enhanced shooting experience it provides.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to improve their shotgun’s performance in a variety of hunting and sporting applications. If you own a Beretta Optima-Choke HP compatible shotgun and are seeking a reliable and consistent Improved Modified choke, the Beretta OPTIMA CT 12 IM FLS is an excellent choice. Upgrade your shooting experience today!

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