Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 Review

First Thoughts on the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 choke tube is a specialized piece of equipment designed for shotgun enthusiasts, specifically those involved in skeet shooting. Beretta, a name synonymous with quality firearms and accessories, offers this extended choke tube as a means to enhance the performance of their shotguns. It promises a tighter, more consistent shot pattern at skeet distances, a crucial factor for success in the sport.

My own journey towards acquiring this choke tube stemmed from a desire to fine-tune my Beretta A400 Xcel for competitive skeet. I had been struggling with inconsistent breaks on longer shots, and I suspected that my factory choke wasn’t providing the optimal pattern. I wanted to step up my game.

Upon unboxing the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4, I was immediately struck by the quality of the finish. The silver finish is smooth and evenly applied, reflecting the attention to detail that Beretta is known for. The extended design adds .75″ to the overall length of the barrel, a noticeable but manageable extension.

Compared to the flush-mounted chokes that came standard with my A400, the extended design of the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 offers a few advantages. The extended portion provides a longer forcing cone, theoretically leading to a more gradual constriction of the shot column and reduced pellet deformation. This should result in a more uniform pattern. It also allows for easier removal and installation, especially with gloved hands.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It felt solid and well-made. I was eager to see if the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 would live up to its promise of improved skeet performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 was at my local gun club, a familiar environment where I could focus on the choke’s performance without distraction. The weather was typical for a spring morning: slightly overcast with a gentle breeze. I ran through several rounds of skeet, paying close attention to my break points and the consistency of the shot patterns.

The improvement was immediately noticeable. I saw fewer chipped targets and more solid breaks, especially on stations 3, 4, and 5, where the targets are typically further away. The shot pattern felt more consistent and predictable. It provided confidence to hit those longer shots.

There were no initial issues. The choke tube installed easily, and the extended design made it easy to tighten and remove by hand.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile addition to my skeet setup. It still looks as good as new. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it.

The finish has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or corrosion despite regular cleaning and exposure to the elements. Maintenance is simple. A quick scrub with a brass brush and some solvent after each shooting session keeps it in top condition.

Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 offers a tangible improvement in pattern consistency. The breaks are noticeably cleaner, and I feel more confident in my ability to consistently hit targets at skeet distances. It definitely outperforms the factory choke that came with my shotgun.

Breaking Down the Features of Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4

Specifications

• Type: Extended. The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 has an extended design for easy installation and removal.
• Gauge: 12 Gauge. This choke is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns, the most common gauge for skeet shooting.
• Choke size: Skeet EU. This corresponds to a very open pattern, ideal for the short-range targets in skeet.
• Model: Optima HP. The OPTIMAHP designation signifies that this choke is compatible with Beretta shotguns featuring the OPTIMAHP choke system.
• Finish: Silver. The silver finish provides a sleek aesthetic and added corrosion resistance.
• Extension: .75″. This extends the choke .75″ beyond the end of the barrel.

These specifications are crucial for skeet shooting because they directly influence the shot pattern’s density and spread at typical skeet distances. The Skeet EU designation ensures a wide, forgiving pattern that makes hitting close-range targets easier. The extended design helps in pattern consistency and facilitates easy choke changes.

Performance & Functionality

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 excels at its primary function: delivering consistent, well-distributed shot patterns at skeet distances. The Skeet EU choke size throws a wide and even pattern, making it easier to break targets, even with slight aiming errors. It allows a forgiving shooting experience.

The choke tube’s performance is impressive, though at longer distances past the standard skeet range, the pattern opens up significantly. Improvement is needed for longer shots. It meets my expectations and has noticeably improved my scores.

Design & Ergonomics

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 is well-built, with a durable silver finish and precise machining. The materials used are high-quality. It provides a smooth installation and removal process.

The extended design makes it easy to grip and tighten the choke tube, even with gloved hands. There is no learning curve involved. It’s a simple, user-friendly design.

Durability & Maintenance

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 is constructed from durable materials and appears to be built to last. With proper care and cleaning, it should provide years of reliable service. It is a solid investment.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a quick cleaning after each use to remove powder residue and prevent corrosion. The durable finish resists wear and tear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4 itself is an accessory, designed to enhance the performance of compatible Beretta shotguns. There are no additional accessories that come specifically with the choke tube.

It is compatible with any Beretta shotgun that utilizes the OPTIMAHP choke system. This allows for a wide range of customization options by swapping out different chokes for various shooting disciplines.

Pros and Cons of Beretta OPTIMAHP CT 12 SK EXT 3/4