First Thoughts on the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS
For years, I’ve preached the importance of a well-patterned shotgun, a tool often underestimated in its versatility. A poor pattern can mean the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating day in the field or a broken clay and a perfect score. That’s why I was intrigued by the claims surrounding the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS, promising better patterns and consistent performance.
Having spent over a decade tweaking and tinkering with shotguns for various purposes, from upland bird hunting to tactical training, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of different choke tubes. I was particularly drawn to Carlson’s Choke Tubes‘s claim of a 25% larger parallel section, a design element that theoretically should smooth out shot strings and reduce pellet deformation. My hope was that this choke would give me tighter, more predictable patterns, especially at longer ranges, when I was shooting sporting clays.
Upon receiving the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS, my initial impression was positive. The stainless steel construction felt robust, and the knurled end promised easy installation and removal, a welcome feature when switching chokes on the fly during a sporting clays course. Compared to the factory choke tubes that came with my Browning Citori, the Carlson’s tube definitely looked more substantial.
I had been considering a Briley choke, known for their precision and quality, but the price point of the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS made it a much more accessible option for testing. I was also debating between this and a Patternmaster choke, known for its unique wad-stripping technology, but I wanted a more traditional design to compare directly to my factory chokes. The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS promised enhanced performance without straying too far from the conventional, and I was eager to see if it delivered.
My first impression was a mix of optimism and skepticism. I was excited about the potential for improved patterns, but also cautious, knowing that choke tube performance can be highly subjective and dependent on factors like ammunition and shooting technique. Only time, and a lot of shotgun shells, would tell if the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS to my local sporting clays range, a course known for its challenging presentations and varied target distances. I wanted to test it in a real-world setting, under pressure, rather than just shooting at paper targets. The conditions were ideal: a slightly overcast day with minimal wind, perfect for evaluating pattern density and consistency.
I primarily used Winchester AA target loads, a common and reliable choice for sporting clays, to ensure a consistent baseline for comparison. Installation was a breeze; the knurled end allowed me to quickly swap out my existing modified choke without any tools. The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS threaded smoothly into my Browning Citori, and felt secure. Right away, I noticed improved breaks on longer crossing targets, birds that previously had given me trouble.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, shooting hundreds of rounds through the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS, I can confidently say it has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or corrosion, despite cleaning it after each session with a standard choke tube cleaner and bore brush. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick scrub is all it takes to keep it in top condition.
Compared to my experiences with cheaper, aftermarket choke tubes, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS has consistently outperformed them in terms of pattern density and consistency. I have noticed fewer “holes” in my patterns at longer ranges, resulting in more confident and reliable breaks. My scores at sporting clays have improved marginally.
Breaking Down the Features of CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS
Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of shotguns, making it a versatile choice for many shooters.
- Choke Constriction: Modified. This is a popular all-around constriction suitable for a variety of shooting applications.
- Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel. This provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability, ensuring a long lifespan even with frequent use.
- Compatibility: Browning Invector Plus. This choke is designed to fit shotguns threaded for the Browning Invector Plus system.
- Design: Sporting Clays. Optimized for the specific demands of sporting clays, offering improved pattern density and consistency at typical target distances.
The specifications are important because they directly influence the performance and reliability of the choke tube. The 17-4 stainless steel construction guarantees durability, while the modified constriction provides a balanced compromise between range and pattern density.
Performance & Functionality
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS excels at its primary job: improving shotgun patterns for sporting clays. Its modified constriction provides a versatile balance of range and pattern density, making it suitable for a wide variety of target presentations. The improved pattern consistency results in more confident breaks, even on challenging targets.
While the choke tube performs exceptionally well in most situations, it’s not a magic bullet. Very long-range targets (beyond 45 yards) still require a tighter choke, and very close-range targets might benefit from a more open constriction. Ultimately, this choke tube exceeded my expectations, delivering consistent and reliable performance that has noticeably improved my shooting.
Design & Ergonomics
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and ease of use. The knurled end allows for quick and tool-free installation and removal, a welcome feature for shooters who like to experiment with different chokes. The stainless steel construction not only enhances durability but also gives the choke tube a premium feel.
The choke is lightweight and doesn’t add noticeable weight to the end of the shotgun barrel. Swapping it in and out feels very natural. There is no learning curve; the design is intuitive and user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS is built to last, thanks to its 17-4 stainless steel construction. I expect it to withstand years of regular use without any significant degradation in performance. Maintaining the choke tube is simple: a quick cleaning after each shooting session is all it takes to prevent the buildup of residue and corrosion.
I don’t anticipate needing to repair the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS under normal use, given the robustness of the materials and construction. The lifetime warranty offered by Carlson’s provides added peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the choke tube itself. However, its compatibility with the Browning Invector Plus system opens up a world of customization options. Shooters can experiment with different choke constrictions within the Invector Plus range to fine-tune their patterns for specific applications.
While the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS is optimized for sporting clays, it can also be used effectively for hunting and other shotgun shooting disciplines.
Pros and Cons of CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density and Consistency: Provides tighter, more even patterns compared to factory chokes, resulting in more confident breaks.
- Durable 17-4 Stainless Steel Construction: Ensures a long lifespan and resistance to corrosion, even with frequent use.
- Easy Installation and Removal: The knurled end allows for quick and tool-free choke swaps.
- Versatile Modified Constriction: Suitable for a wide range of target presentations in sporting clays, hunting, and other disciplines.
- Affordable Price Point: Offers excellent value for the money compared to higher-end choke tubes.
Cons
- Not Ideal for Extreme Ranges: Very long-range targets might require a tighter choke constriction.
- Limited Customization: Only offers modified constriction in this specific model.
Who Should Buy CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS?
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS is perfect for sporting clays enthusiasts looking to improve their scores without breaking the bank. It’s also an excellent choice for hunters who want a versatile choke tube for a variety of game birds. Anyone using a shotgun with the Browning Invector Plus system who wants more consistent patterns should consider this choke.
Those who primarily shoot trap at fixed distances, or those who require very specialized choke constrictions for specific shooting disciplines, might want to explore other options. Target shooters consistently engaging in patterns beyond 50 yards should also consider a full choke instead. A must-have accessory for anyone buying this choke is a high-quality choke tube wrench, although it’s designed for hand tightening.
Conclusion on CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS is an excellent value for the money, delivering tangible improvements in pattern density and consistency for sporting clays and other shotgun shooting disciplines. Its durable construction, easy installation, and versatile modified constriction make it a worthwhile upgrade for any shotgun owner using the Browning Invector Plus system. The price is justified by the enhanced performance and the longevity of the stainless steel material.
I would personally recommend the CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA MOD SPORT CLAY BRO INV PLUS to anyone looking to improve their shotgun patterns without spending a fortune. It’s a simple and effective upgrade that can make a noticeable difference in your shooting performance. Go ahead and give it a try. You might just be surprised at how much it can improve your game.