Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC Review

The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless choke tubes promising tighter patterns and improved performance. The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC, with its promise of consistent patterns and durable stainless steel construction, immediately caught my eye. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype, especially at a price point that’s significantly lower than some of the competition.

I was looking for a choke tube that could consistently deliver improved patterns for close-range upland bird hunting and clay shooting. My old choke tube, a generic brand, was giving me inconsistent results, with noticeable gaps in the pattern at distances of 20-30 yards. This Browning choke tube offered the potential to address that issue.

Upon unboxing, the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC felt solid and well-made. The polished stainless steel finish gave it a premium look and feel, and the flush fit design was aesthetically pleasing. It instilled confidence that Browning hadn’t compromised on quality, despite the appealing price.

Compared to a Briley extended choke tube and a Carlson’s ported choke tube that I use for other gauges, the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC stands out for its simplicity and flush fit. I chose this particular choke tube over others because I wanted a reliable, affordable option for my 20-gauge that wouldn’t extend beyond the barrel. I also prefer the tighter patterns the Improved Cylinder constriction provides for my style of hunting.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC seemed well-built and the price was certainly right, but the real test would be how it performed in the field. Only live fire would reveal whether it could truly deliver on its promise of consistent patterns.

Real-World Testing: Putting Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC at my local sporting clays range. The day was sunny and dry, with a slight breeze – ideal conditions for shooting. I focused on station shots mimicking upland bird hunting scenarios, around 20-30 yards.

The choke tube performed admirably. I immediately noticed a more consistent pattern with fewer noticeable gaps compared to my old choke tube. The clays broke more convincingly, and my hit rate improved noticeably.

The choke tube was easy to install and required no special tools. There were no issues with installation or functionality. The ease of use was a welcome surprise.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC has consistently delivered excellent performance. I’ve used it in various conditions, including light rain and dusty fields. It continues to hold up well.

So far, there are no signs of wear and tear on the choke tube. The 17-4 stainless steel construction seems to be very durable, and the polished finish still looks new. The tube still threads smoothly into my shotgun.

Cleaning and maintenance are simple. A quick wipe-down with a bore brush and some solvent after each use is all that’s required. This ease of maintenance adds to the overall positive experience.

Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket choke tubes, the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC outperforms my expectations, especially considering its price. The consistent patterns and ease of use make it a clear winner. My previous choke tube was from an unknown manufacturer.

Breaking Down the Features of Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC

Specifications

The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC is designed for 20-gauge shotguns with Invector-Plus™ choke systems. It features an Improved Cylinder constriction, which is ideal for close-range shooting at distances of 20-30 yards. The choke tube is constructed from highly polished 17-4 stainless steel for maximum durability.

The choke tube is designed to be a flush fit. This prevents it from extending beyond the end of the barrel. The longer choke taper inside the Invector-Plus™ choke tube is specifically designed for use with back-bored barrels, optimizing patterns.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the choke tube’s performance and longevity. The stainless steel construction ensures resistance to corrosion and wear. The Improved Cylinder constriction provides a balance between pattern density and spread, making it versatile for various shooting scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC excels at producing excellent patterns with uniform densities. I have found that it significantly improves my accuracy and hit rate on clay targets and upland birds at close range. It excels in situations where you want some spread, but still a dense pattern.

The tube’s strengths lie in its consistent pattern performance, durable construction, and ease of use. A potential weakness could be its limited range; Improved Cylinder chokes are not ideal for long-distance shots. However, for its intended purpose, it performs admirably.

It meets and exceeds my expectations for a choke tube in this price range. I was particularly impressed with the consistent patterns it produced. I expected a decent choke tube, but this one offers surprising performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC is well-designed and feels solid in hand. The polished stainless steel gives it a premium appearance and ensures smooth installation. Its flush fit design maintains the sleek profile of the shotgun.

The choke tube is incredibly user-friendly. Installation and removal are straightforward. There is no noticeable learning curve associated with its use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its 17-4 stainless steel construction, the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple. Cleaning after each use is recommended to prevent buildup of residue. I anticipate no issues with long-term durability or repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC does not come with any additional accessories. Since it is a choke tube, there aren’t any customization options beyond choosing a different constriction.

It is compatible with any 20-gauge shotgun designed for Browning’s Invector-Plus™ choke system. This wide compatibility makes it easy to use with a variety of shotguns. No specialized tools are necessary to install or remove the choke tube.

Pros and Cons of Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC

Pros

  • Excellent pattern density for close-range shooting.
  • Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction for long-lasting performance.
  • Flush fit design maintains a sleek shotgun profile.
  • Easy to install and maintain.
  • Affordable price point offers great value.

Cons

  • Improved Cylinder constriction is not ideal for long-range shots.
  • No included accessories (choke wrench sold separately).


Who Should Buy Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC?

The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC is perfect for upland bird hunters who primarily hunt in close cover and require a consistent, moderately open pattern. It is also well-suited for sporting clays shooters looking for an affordable and reliable choke tube for close-range targets. Casual shooters will appreciate the ease of use and performance.

This choke tube might not be the best choice for those who primarily shoot at longer distances or require more specialized choke constrictions for specific shooting disciplines. Skeet shooters may also prefer a cylinder or skeet choke instead.

A must-have accessory is a choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal.

Conclusion on Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC

The Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC is an excellent choice for shooters seeking a reliable and affordable choke tube for close-range shooting. Its consistent patterns, durable construction, and ease of use make it a standout product in its category. At $24.49, the price is more than justified given the level of performance.

I would absolutely recommend the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC to anyone looking for a quality Improved Cylinder choke tube for their 20-gauge shotgun. It is a great value and delivers consistent results. Upgrade your shotgun today with the Browning Choke Tube IV+ 20 IC and experience the difference!


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