The Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench Made a Bold First Impression
Having spent over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve encountered my fair share of specialized tools. The Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench isn’t exactly a high-speed, low-drag item, but for the serious shotgunner, it’s a critical piece of kit. Briley is a name synonymous with quality in the shotgun world, and my initial impression was that this wrench would live up to that reputation.
Like many shotgun owners, I’d previously relied on multi-tools or even pliers to swap out choke tubes. This often resulted in scratched tubes, damaged threads, and general frustration. I needed a dedicated tool that would provide a secure grip and make choke tube changes quick and easy, without causing any damage. The Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench promised exactly that.
Upon unboxing, the wrench felt surprisingly lightweight. The aluminum construction gave it a solid, but not unwieldy, feel. The bright silver finish was clean and professional, instilling confidence in the build quality. Compared to a generic choke tube wrench I’d seen at a local gun shop, the Briley tool’s fit and finish were noticeably superior; the fingers looked more precisely machined, and the crank handle felt more robust. I was excited to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at the local sporting clays range. It was a typical, slightly overcast day. The range provides a great testing ground for choke tubes, as one needs to swap chokes for different stations on the course. I wanted to see how easily the Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench could handle repeated choke changes.
The Briley wrench made the process incredibly simple. The aluminum fingers slid smoothly into the choke tube, and the crank handle allowed for quick and effortless tightening and loosening. Even after a few rounds, when the tubes started to get a bit grimy, the wrench maintained a secure grip. There was no slippage, and no scratched tubes. The only minor issue I encountered was getting used to the crank handle’s rotation direction, but that was quickly resolved with a little practice.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it in various weather conditions, from hot and humid summer days to cold and damp autumn mornings. It has held up incredibly well.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The aluminum still looks great, and the crank handle still turns smoothly. Cleaning the wrench is also very easy; a quick wipe-down with a cloth after use is usually all that’s needed. Compared to my previous experiences with improvised tools, the Briley wrench is a night-and-day difference. It has simplified choke tube changes and completely eliminated the risk of damaging my expensive choke tubes.
Breaking Down the Features of Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench
Specifications
- The Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns. This ensures a snug and secure fit within the choke tube, preventing slippage and damage.
- The wrench is constructed from lightweight aluminum. This material provides excellent strength and durability while keeping the tool easy to handle and carry.
- The wrench features aluminum fingers. These fingers accurately align inside the choke tube and hold the teeth in place for optimal grip.
- The crank handle is designed for quick spinning of tubes in or out. This allows for faster and more efficient choke tube changes compared to using pliers or multi-tools.
- The Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench is a universal wrench and fits all Briley chokes (except Briley special thinwall choke tubes.) This makes it a versatile tool for shotgun owners who use a variety of Briley chokes.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the wrench’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The aluminum construction ensures the tool will last for years, while the precisely machined fingers and crank handle provide a secure grip and efficient operation.
Performance & Functionality
The Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench performs its job exceptionally well. It allows for quick, easy, and damage-free choke tube changes.
Its strengths lie in its secure grip, ease of use, and durable construction. The only minor area for improvement might be a slightly more ergonomic handle, although the current design is perfectly functional. It meets and exceeds expectations, especially compared to using improvised tools.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The aluminum construction feels solid and durable, and the tool is lightweight and comfortable to hold.
The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. Anyone who has ever changed a choke tube will be able to use this wrench with ease.
Durability & Maintenance
The Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench is built to last. The aluminum construction is resistant to corrosion and wear.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down after each use is all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options available. Its simplicity is part of its appeal. It is designed to work with all standard Briley 12-gauge choke tubes (excluding thinwall versions).
Pros and Cons of Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench
Pros
- Effortless Choke Changes: Makes swapping choke tubes quick and easy, saving time and frustration at the range or in the field.
- Protects Choke Tubes: The aluminum fingers provide a secure grip without scratching or damaging expensive choke tubes.
- Durable Construction: The aluminum construction ensures the wrench will last for years, even with frequent use.
- Universal Fit: Compatible with all standard Briley 12-gauge choke tubes (excluding thinwall versions), offering versatility for shotgun owners.
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry in a range bag or hunting pack.
Cons
- Not for Thinwall Chokes: The wrench is not compatible with Briley special thinwall choke tubes, which may limit its usefulness for some shooters.
- Aluminum Can Still Mar Tubes If Not Careful: Although designed to prevent damage, excessive force or improper alignment could still potentially mar the choke tube’s finish.
Who Should Buy Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench?
The Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench is perfect for: Hunters who frequently change chokes to match different game and hunting conditions; competitive shooters who need to quickly adjust their chokes between stations; and any shotgun owner who values the ease and safety of changing choke tubes without damaging them.
Who should skip this product? Those who only own shotguns with fixed chokes, or those who exclusively use Briley thinwall chokes.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None. The wrench is ready to use right out of the box.
Conclusion on Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench
The Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench is a simple, yet incredibly effective tool. It takes the frustration out of changing choke tubes, protects your investment in quality chokes, and is built to last.
At $26.49, the price is justified for the convenience and peace of mind it provides. I would absolutely recommend the Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench to any serious shotgunner.
If you’re tired of struggling with choke tube changes and want a tool that will make the process quick, easy, and safe, then invest in the Briley 12 Gauge Choke Tube Wrench. You won’t regret it.