CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE Review

First Thoughts on the CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE

The CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE promises to unleash the full potential of Federal’s Black Cloud ammunition in my Mossberg shotguns. This choke, designed specifically for the Mossberg 835 and 935 12-gauge models, is built to enhance the performance of Black Cloud’s FliteControl wad and Flitestopper shot. Federal claims devastating penetration and improved downrange performance. For a seasoned outdoorsman like myself, that’s a claim worth investigating.

I needed a choke tube that could consistently deliver tight, effective patterns with steel shot for waterfowl hunting. I’ve struggled with inconsistent patterns in the past, losing birds and wasting ammunition. The promise of improved pattern density and longer effective range drew me to this particular choke.

Upon unboxing, the CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE feels solid and well-made. The titanium-coated steel gives it a robust and durable impression. It’s heavier than the factory choke tubes, suggesting denser material and a more substantial build.

Compared to a standard modified choke and a competitor’s extended range waterfowl choke, the CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE immediately stood out. The extended tube design and internal geometry looked more sophisticated. The competitor’s choke felt less refined, and the factory choke, well, it’s just a basic choke.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. Could a choke tube really make that much difference? I hoped this choke would live up to the hype and improve my consistency in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test took place at a local shooting range, patterning the CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE with various steel shot loads, including Federal Black Cloud, naturally. The weather was typical for early spring – slightly damp with a light breeze. I shot at distances of 30 and 40 yards, standard waterfowl engagement ranges.

The choke noticeably tightened the patterns compared to my factory modified choke. At 30 yards, the Black Cloud load produced dense, even patterns with excellent pellet distribution within a 30-inch circle. There were no significant holes or gaps in the pattern. However, even with the non-Black Cloud loads, the patterns were denser than with my factory choke.

There was no learning curve involved; installation was straightforward, just like any other choke tube. The only surprise was the noticeable increase in felt recoil, likely due to the tighter constriction of the choke.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full waterfowl season and numerous trips to the range, the CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or corrosion on the titanium coating, even after exposure to harsh weather conditions and cleaning solvents.

Maintenance is simple; cleaning with a standard choke tube brush and solvent is all that’s required. I inspect it regularly for buildup and ensure it’s properly tightened before each use. It’s consistently outperformed my previous chokes, delivering tighter patterns and more consistent kills in the field.

Compared to my experiences with other aftermarket chokes, the CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE has proven to be significantly more reliable and durable. This is a solid piece of equipment.

Breaking Down the Features of CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE

Specifications

• Specifically designed for Mossberg 835/935 12GA shotguns: Ensures a proper and secure fit for optimal performance.
• Extended tube design: Extends beyond the muzzle for improved pattern consistency and protects the muzzle.
• Titanium-coated steel construction: Increases durability and corrosion resistance, essential for harsh environments.
• Mid Range and Long Range models available: Allows hunters to choose the appropriate choke constriction for their hunting style and distance.
• Optimized for Federal Black Cloud ammunition: Designed to maximize the performance of Black Cloud’s FliteControl wad and Flitestopper shot.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the choke’s ability to deliver consistent, effective patterns. The titanium coating ensures longevity. The extended design helps to reduce shot deformation. The specific optimization for Black Cloud ammunition aims to squeeze every last bit of performance from that specific load.

Performance & Functionality

The CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE excels at tightening shot patterns, extending the effective range of my Mossberg 835 and 935 shotguns. It is reliable, consistently delivering dense patterns with minimal flyers. It is easy to install and remove.

The choke’s greatest strength is its ability to produce consistently tight patterns with steel shot, especially Federal Black Cloud. The only weakness is the potential increase in felt recoil, which is a trade-off for the tighter constriction. It definitely meets my expectations and has improved my success rate in the field.

Design & Ergonomics

The CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE features a robust, durable construction, and the titanium coating provides excellent corrosion resistance. Its weight is noticeable but not cumbersome. It’s easy to handle during installation and removal.

The design is straightforward and functional. There’s no learning curve, it’s a simple screw-in installation, and it’s ready to go. The extended design is aesthetically pleasing and also offers muzzle protection.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its titanium-coated steel construction, the CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE should last for many seasons with proper care. Simple cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent after each use is all that’s required to maintain its performance. No repairs have been necessary to date.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE comes with no additional accessories beyond the choke tube itself. There are no specific customization options available for the choke itself, but it’s compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Mossberg shotguns. It is also compatible with various brands of steel shot ammunition, although its performance is optimized for Federal Black Cloud.

Pros and Cons of CARL BLACK CLOUD 12GA MOSS 835/935 CHOKE