The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve relied on a fixed choke in my favorite 12-gauge. While reliable, I’ve always felt limited by its single pattern. Enter the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL, a seemingly simple accessory promising enhanced versatility and performance.
I was looking to tighten my patterns for longer shots on dove and preserve the flexibility to open it back up for closer quail. My existing setup lacked this adaptability, and the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL seemed like an affordable solution. Upon unboxing, the polished stainless steel immediately caught my eye. It felt solid and well-made, a far cry from some of the cheaper aftermarket chokes I’ve seen.
Compared to a Carlson’s Sporting Clays Choke or a Briley Spectrum Choke, the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL distinguishes itself with its flush-fit design and Browning’s reputation for quality. The others offered extended options with knurled grips, but I prefer the sleek, almost invisible profile of the flush fit. My initial reaction was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. Could this choke tube truly deliver the pattern improvements I was seeking?
Real-World Testing: Putting Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL was a dove hunt in the Texas Hill Country. Conditions were dry and dusty, but the weather was mild. I spent the morning primarily targeting birds at around 35-40 yards. The improvement in pattern density at those distances was immediately noticeable. I found myself connecting on birds that would have been marginal shots with my old modified choke.
Installation was straightforward. It only required a choke tube wrench, and it screwed in smoothly without any binding. The flush fit design meant it didn’t snag on brush as I walked through the mesquite. No issues arose during the first use, but I did notice that it heated up more than my factory choke after repeated firing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, primarily for dove and quail hunting, the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL continues to perform admirably. It shows no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor powder residue, which is easily cleaned. Cleaning is a breeze with a standard choke tube brush and solvent. I’ve experienced no issues with sticking or deformation.
Compared to my previous fixed-choke setup, the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL offers a significant improvement in versatility and effective range. It’s far more effective than I anticipated. The uniform pattern densities truly make a difference.
Breaking Down the Features of Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL
Specifications
- The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL is designed for 12-gauge shotguns with Invector-Plus™ choke systems. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of Browning shotguns.
- It boasts a flush-fit design. This feature is crucial for hunters who navigate dense cover.
- Constructed from highly polished 17-4 stainless steel. This material provides exceptional durability and corrosion resistance.
- The constriction is listed as FL, representing a “flush” or light constriction ideal for close to mid-range targets. It provides a slightly tighter pattern than Cylinder bore.
- The longer choke taper inside the Invector-Plus™ system is designed for use with back-bored barrels. This contributes to improved pattern uniformity and reduced pellet deformation.
Performance & Functionality
The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL performs exceptionally well in its intended role. Its functionality provides slightly tighter patterns than cylinder bore. This makes it ideal for flushing birds, close range clays, and close range target shooting.
Its strength lies in its ability to consistently deliver dense, uniform patterns at closer ranges. The primary weakness is that it is not designed for long-range shooting. It perfectly meets my expectations, providing noticeable improvement in pattern density compared to my fixed choke.
Design & Ergonomics
The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL’s design is simple and functional. It blends seamlessly with the shotgun barrel thanks to its flush-fit design. The build quality is excellent, using high quality materials. The 17-4 stainless steel feels solid and resists corrosion.
The design is incredibly user-friendly, requiring only a choke tube wrench for installation and removal. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL is built to last. Expect it to withstand years of use with proper care. Maintenance is straightforward. It requires a simple cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL does not come with any additional accessories beyond the choke tube itself. Customization options are limited to selecting different constrictions within the Invector-Plus™ system. It is fully compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Invector-Plus™ chokes.
Pros and Cons of Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL
Pros
- Noticeably improved pattern density compared to a cylinder bore at close to mid-ranges.
- Constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- The flush-fit design prevents snagging on brush and maintains a sleek profile.
- Easy to install and remove with a standard choke tube wrench.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value for improved shotgun performance.
Cons
- Not suitable for long-range shooting; tighter constrictions are needed for extended distances.
- Flush-fit design can be difficult to remove if overtightened or heavily fouled.
Who Should Buy Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL?
The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL is perfect for hunters who frequently encounter close-range shooting situations. This includes quail hunters, upland bird enthusiasts, and those who prefer a slightly tighter pattern for breaking clays at close range. It is also great for anyone looking to add versatility to their shotgun without investing in a whole new firearm.
Those who consistently shoot at longer ranges (40+ yards) should skip this product and opt for a tighter constriction choke. A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL
The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL is a simple yet effective accessory that delivers on its promise of improved pattern density at close ranges. Its durability, ease of use, and affordable price make it an excellent value for shotgun owners looking to enhance their versatility. The price is definitely justified, providing a significant performance boost for a minimal investment.
I would absolutely recommend the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL to anyone seeking to improve their close-range shotgun performance without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a simple, reliable, and affordable way to get more out of your 12-gauge, give the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 12 FL a try. You won’t be disappointed.