The Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL Made a Bold First Impression
The Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL might seem like a simple accessory, but its impact on a shotgun’s performance is significant. The Browning name itself carries weight in the shooting world, synonymous with quality and reliability. I was excited to see if this choke tube lived up to the Browning standard.
My need for this choke tube stemmed from a desire for more versatility in my 20-gauge shotgun. I primarily use it for upland bird hunting, but I also occasionally participate in clay target shooting. The factory-installed modified choke was a decent all-around option, but I needed a more open pattern for close-range shots and a wider spread for challenging crossing birds.
Upon receiving the Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL, I was immediately impressed with its polished finish and solid construction. The 17-4 stainless steel gave it a reassuring heft and suggested long-lasting durability. The flush fit design was also a plus, as it maintained the clean lines of the shotgun without extending beyond the barrel.
I considered other choke tubes from different manufacturers, including some extended choke options. However, I ultimately chose the Browning tube due to the Browning name, the flush fit design, and the perceived quality of the 17-4 stainless steel. Other tubes felt less substantial in hand. My first impression was one of quiet confidence – this was a well-made piece that would likely perform as expected.
Real-World Testing: Putting Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local sporting clays course. The course presented a variety of shots, from close-in rabbits to long, angled crossers. I specifically wanted to gauge how the Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL performed on those close-range targets.
The Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL excelled in these close-range scenarios. The wider pattern provided a forgiving margin of error, making it easier to break the clay even with slightly off-center hits. I even noticed it improved my confidence on incoming birds. There were no issues whatsoever during this first outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL has proven to be a reliable addition to my shotgun accessories. It has seen action in everything from dove hunts in dry, dusty fields to pheasant hunts in damp, early-morning conditions. There have been no rust issues, and the tube remains easy to install and remove.
The choke tube has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick scrub with a brush and solvent keeps it in top condition. Compared to other choke tubes I’ve used in the past, the Browning tube consistently delivers more uniform patterns, resulting in fewer missed birds and broken clays. It definitely outperforms cheaper, less precisely manufactured tubes.
Breaking Down the Features of Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL
Specifications
- The Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL is designed for use with 20-gauge shotguns. Its Cylinder constriction provides the most open pattern available, ideal for close-range shooting.
- It is constructed from highly polished 17-4 stainless steel. This material offers exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- The tube features a flush fit design. This design maintains a sleek profile and prevents snagging on brush or clothing.
- The tube is manufactured to industry constriction standards. This ensures consistent and reliable performance across different ammunition types.
The stainless steel construction is crucial for preventing rust, particularly in wet environments. The Cylinder bore is the most open choke and is essential for very short-range shooting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL performs exceptionally well in situations where a wide shot pattern is desired. Its consistent spread ensures that targets are more likely to be hit, even if the shot isn’t perfectly centered. For close-range targets like quail, grouse, or rabbits, this choke tube is ideal.
The only limitation is its range. At longer distances, the shot pattern becomes too dispersed, reducing the energy of the pellets on the target. It excels at close range but suffers at longer ranges. It definitely meets expectations at close range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL boasts a simple yet effective design. The polished stainless steel finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, resisting corrosion and wear. The flush fit ensures that the tube doesn’t extend beyond the end of the barrel, maintaining a clean and snag-free profile.
The installation and removal are straightforward, requiring no special tools. The user-friendly design is a definite plus, making it easy to swap chokes in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures that the Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL is built to last. With proper care, this choke tube should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a bore brush and solvent.
The tube is corrosion-resistant, minimizing the risk of rust and pitting. The build quality indicates a long lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, its compatibility with Browning‘s standard Invector™ choke system means it can be used with a wide range of Browning shotguns. Some shooters may opt to use a choke tube wrench for easier installation and removal, though it’s not strictly necessary. Aftermarket choke cases can also be beneficial for organization and protection.
Pros and Cons of Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL
Pros
- Excellent for close-range shooting. The wide pattern ensures a higher probability of hitting targets at close distances.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction. This material is highly resistant to corrosion and wear.
- Flush fit design. The tube maintains a sleek profile and prevents snagging.
- Easy to install and remove. No special tools are required.
- Consistent pattern density. It provides reliable and predictable shot dispersion.
Cons
- Limited range. The wide pattern is not suitable for longer-distance shots.
- Specialized use. It is intended for very specific shooting scenarios.
Who Should Buy Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL?
The Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL is perfect for upland bird hunters who frequently encounter close-flushing birds, such as quail or grouse. It is also beneficial for clay target shooters who want a more forgiving pattern on close-range targets. Home defense could be another application.
This product is not ideal for shooters who primarily engage in long-range shooting activities, such as waterfowl hunting over decoys at extended distances or trap shooting. If you are looking for a versatile choke tube that can handle a wide range of distances, a modified or improved cylinder choke would be a better choice. A choke tube wrench is a must-have.
Conclusion on Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL
The Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL is a well-made, specialized accessory that excels in close-range shooting scenarios. Its durable construction, flush fit design, and consistent pattern density make it a worthwhile addition to any 20-gauge shotgun owner’s collection. While its range is limited, its performance in close-quarters situations is exceptional.
At a price of $24.99, the value proposition is excellent. It’s a small investment that can significantly improve your success rate in specific hunting and shooting situations.
I would definitely recommend the Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL to anyone seeking a reliable and effective choke for close-range shooting. Upgrade your shotgun’s versatility, improve your close-range accuracy, and pick up a Browning Choke Tube 20 CYL today!