The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS Made a Bold First Impression
The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS is a choke tube designed for Beretta shotguns utilizing the Optima-Choke HP system. It’s a component often overlooked, but crucial for optimizing shotgun performance. I’ve been a shotgun shooter for over a decade, primarily for waterfowl and sporting clays, and the quest for the perfect pattern is a never-ending pursuit.
My need for this particular choke stemmed from frustration with inconsistent patterns I was getting with factory chokes while shooting steel shot on geese. I was looking for a choke that could reliably deliver tight, even patterns at moderate ranges, specifically a medium choke to effectively down geese without excessive pellet spread. I wanted to improve my hit rate and reduce the chance of wounding birds, a responsibility I take very seriously.
The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was positive; the nickel-alloy coating gave it a clean, professional look. The weight felt appropriate, indicating a solid steel construction. This felt like a durable piece of equipment, definitely more robust than some of the cheaper aftermarket chokes I’ve seen.
I considered several other chokes before settling on this one. Carlson’s choke tubes are a popular choice, as well as those from Briley. Ultimately, I chose the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS because I wanted to maintain compatibility with my Beretta shotgun and believed the Beretta brand would ensure proper fit and reliable performance. I also appreciated the assurance that it could handle steel shot without issue.
I was cautiously optimistic. Choke tubes can be a bit of a gamble; some perform as advertised, others don’t. But based on the Beretta reputation and the stated compatibility with steel shot, I felt this was a worthwhile investment to improve my shotgun performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS was at a local sporting clays range. I wanted to pattern the choke with various loads before taking it into the field. The weather was clear and mild, ideal for a controlled testing environment. I shot at paper targets set at 30 yards to get a sense of pattern density.
The OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS noticeably tightened my shot patterns compared to the factory improved cylinder choke I had been using. The difference was immediately apparent; the shot was more concentrated in the center of the target. Recoil was manageable, and there were no issues with installation or removal using my choke wrench.
One initial surprise was how clean the choke remained after firing multiple rounds. Typically, with other chokes, I find significant powder residue buildup. But the nickel-alloy coating seemed to resist buildup, which made cleaning easier.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including two waterfowl hunts and multiple trips to the range, the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS has proven to be a reliable performer. There are no visible signs of wear or corrosion, despite exposure to wet conditions during the hunts. The high strength steel construction appears to be holding up well.
Cleaning the choke is a breeze. A quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent removes any accumulated residue. The internal threads are still sharp and undamaged. This level of durability and ease of maintenance is a significant plus in my book.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket chokes, the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS has outperformed them in terms of pattern consistency and ease of cleaning. I’ve used cheaper chokes that have corroded quickly or produced erratic patterns. This choke delivers consistent, reliable performance that gives me confidence in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS
Specifications
The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS is a 12-gauge choke tube designed for shotguns with the Beretta Optima-Choke HP system. It is classified as a “Medium” choke, offering a balance between tight patterns at longer ranges and sufficient spread for closer shots. It is made from high strength steel with a nickel-alloy coating.
The high strength steel ensures durability and the ability to withstand the pressures of repeated firing, including the use of steel shot. The nickel-alloy coating provides excellent corrosion resistance, crucial for withstanding harsh weather conditions and frequent cleaning. The medium constriction is designed to provide optimal pattern density at moderate ranges, typically 30-40 yards. This is the sweet spot for many hunting scenarios, especially waterfowl.
Performance & Functionality
The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS performs its job admirably. It consistently produces tight, even patterns that improve accuracy and increase the likelihood of clean kills. The choke is easy to install and remove using a standard choke wrench. I have experienced no issues with the choke loosening during firing.
The main strength of this choke is its consistent performance with various loads. It provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density compared to more open chokes. The only potential weakness is that it might be too tight for very close-range shooting (inside of 20 yards), where a more open choke would be preferable. However, for the majority of my hunting and sporting clays needs, it is an excellent choice.
The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS meets and exceeds my expectations. It delivers on its promise of improved pattern density and reliable performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS is a simple, functional design. The materials used are high-quality and durable. The nickel-alloy coating provides a smooth, easy-to-clean surface. Its weight is appropriate for its size and construction, and it does not add noticeable weight to the shotgun.
The choke is user-friendly and requires no special tools or skills to install or remove. The threads are well-machined and provide a secure fit. There is no learning curve associated with using this choke.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS is built to last. The high strength steel construction and nickel-alloy coating ensure it can withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements. With proper cleaning and maintenance, this choke should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply remove the choke after use, clean it with a bore brush and solvent, and apply a light coat of oil to protect it from corrosion. The nickel-alloy coating makes cleaning particularly easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS does not come with any accessories beyond the choke tube itself. However, it is compatible with a wide range of choke wrenches designed for Optima-Choke HP systems. These wrenches are readily available from Beretta and other aftermarket suppliers.
While choke tubes themselves are not customizable in the traditional sense, you can optimize your shotgun’s performance by experimenting with different brands and constrictions to find the best match for your specific shooting style and ammunition. The Optima-Choke HP system allows for easy interchangeability, making this process simple.
Pros and Cons of Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS
Pros
- Consistently tight and even shot patterns at moderate ranges. This significantly improves accuracy and increases the chance of clean kills.
- High-strength steel construction* and nickel-alloy coating ensure exceptional durability and corrosion resistance.* This makes it suitable for use in all weather conditions.
- Easy to install and remove with a standard choke wrench. This allows for quick and easy changes in the field.
- Compatible with steel shot. This is crucial for waterfowl hunting where lead shot is often prohibited.
- Simple to clean and maintain due to the smooth nickel-alloy finish. Cleaning the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS is hassle-free.
Cons
- May be too tight for very close-range shooting (inside of 20 yards). A more open choke may be preferable for those situations.
- Priced slightly higher than some aftermarket alternatives. While the quality justifies the cost, budget-conscious shooters may find cheaper options.
Who Should Buy Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS?
The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS is perfect for:
- Waterfowl hunters who need a reliable choke for shooting steel shot at moderate ranges.
- Sporting clays shooters who want to improve their pattern density and accuracy.
- Anyone who owns a Beretta shotgun with the Optima-Choke HP system and wants a high-quality, durable choke tube.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who primarily shoot at very close range (inside of 20 yards).
- Shooters on a very tight budget who are willing to sacrifice some quality for a lower price.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A quality choke wrench is essential for installing and removing the choke.
- Consider experimenting with different loads to find the optimal combination for your shotgun and the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS.
Conclusion on Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS
The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS is a well-made, durable, and reliable choke tube that delivers on its promise of improved pattern density. The high strength steel construction and nickel-alloy coating ensure it can withstand the rigors of frequent use in various weather conditions. The choke is easy to install, clean, and maintain, making it a hassle-free addition to any Beretta shotgun owner’s arsenal.
At $31.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and the consistent performance. While there are cheaper aftermarket options available, the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS provides a level of quality and reliability that makes it a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 MD FLS to any shotgun owner looking to improve their pattern density and accuracy. It is a solid, dependable product that will enhance your shooting experience. Upgrade your Beretta today! You won’t regret it.