The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED BER BEN Made a Bold First Impression
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED BER BEN arrived in a simple, unassuming package, belying the performance I hoped it contained. As a seasoned turkey hunter with over a decade of experience, I’ve cycled through my fair share of choke tubes, each promising tighter patterns and longer shots. My trusty old choke was starting to show its age and losing some of its effectiveness at longer ranges, prompting me to search for a reliable replacement that wouldn’t break the bank.
The promise of optimized patterns at both short and long distances, combined with recoil reduction from the ports, piqued my interest. I was looking for a choke that offered versatility in different hunting situations, from tight wooded areas to open fields. While I considered other options from Patternmaster and Kick’s Industries, the CARL CHOKE TUBE offered a compelling blend of features and affordability. Upon unboxing, the CARL CHOKE TUBE’s blue, non-reflective finish and solid steel construction immediately impressed me, radiating a sense of quality and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED BER BEN to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local shooting range, preparing for the upcoming turkey season. I mounted the CARL CHOKE TUBE on my trusty Benelli Super Black Eagle II, using a variety of turkey loads from different manufacturers. Testing was done in clear, dry conditions, focusing on pattern density at 30 and 40 yards. The CARL CHOKE TUBE installed easily and securely with no needed gunsmithing, an immediate win.
The difference was immediately noticeable compared to my old choke. The ported design noticeably reduced muzzle jump, allowing for faster follow-up shots, and the patterns were significantly tighter and more consistent. This choke tube was proving its value, and quickly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use during pre-season scouting and patterning, the CARL CHOKE TUBE has performed admirably. Even after extended range sessions and cleaning after each use, there’s been no noticeable wear or corrosion. It is obvious that cleaning and maintenance are simple tasks. It easily surpasses my previous choke in terms of pattern consistency and recoil reduction.
Breaking Down the Features of CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED BER BEN
Specifications
- The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED BER BEN is a 12-gauge choke tube designed for Benelli and Beretta shotguns. It’s specifically bored as a Super Full Choke, tailored for optimal turkey hunting performance.
- The choke features a ported design to reduce recoil and muzzle jump. This is a critical feature for maintaining accuracy on follow-up shots, especially when using magnum turkey loads.
- Constructed from aircraft stainless steel, the tube offers exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. This ensures longevity, even with regular exposure to harsh weather conditions.
- It is finished with a blue, non-reflective coating to minimize glare and prevent spooking wary game. Stealth is a hunter’s best friend!
Performance & Functionality
The CARL CHOKE TUBE excels in delivering dense, consistent patterns at typical turkey hunting ranges. At 40 yards, it consistently produced patterns with a high percentage of pellets within a 10-inch circle, ensuring ethical and effective shots. While the porting is subtle, it noticeably tames recoil, enhancing shooter comfort and control. It performs exactly as expected for its designed purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The choke tube’s design is simple and functional. The stainless-steel construction inspires confidence, while the blue finish provides a touch of aesthetics without compromising stealth. The installation process is straightforward, requiring no special tools beyond a standard choke tube wrench, if even that. There is a simple and solid design here that inspires confidence.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless-steel construction promises excellent durability. After weeks of use, including exposure to rain and mud, the choke shows no signs of rust or wear. Cleaning is as simple as running a brush through the tube and wiping it down with a lightly oiled cloth. The robust design ensures it will last for many seasons to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARL CHOKE TUBE doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it’s a standalone product. However, its compatibility with Benelli and Beretta shotguns means it can be used with various aftermarket choke tube wrenches. There is no need for any other accessories in most cases.
Pros and Cons of CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED BER BEN
Pros
- The CARL CHOKE TUBE provides exceptional pattern density at extended ranges, drastically improving your odds of a successful hunt. This is the most important factor for any turkey hunter.
- The ported design effectively reduces recoil and muzzle jump, allowing for quicker and more accurate follow-up shots. Maintaining a sight picture is critical in turkey hunting.
- The stainless-steel construction ensures long-lasting durability and resistance to corrosion, even in harsh environments. This provides lasting value for the money.
- The blue, non-reflective finish minimizes glare and helps keep you concealed from wary turkeys. Every advantage counts when hunting these wily birds.
- Installation is simple and straightforward, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing. Anyone can install this choke tube easily.
Cons
- The finish, while non-reflective, may be prone to scratching with prolonged use. This is a minor cosmetic issue that doesn’t affect performance.
- The “Super Full” choke designation might be too tight for very close-range shots (inside 20 yards), potentially resulting in a smaller, less forgiving pattern. Hunters in very tight terrain should be aware of this.
Who Should Buy CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED BER BEN?
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED BER BEN is perfect for serious turkey hunters seeking to maximize their shotgun’s performance at medium to long ranges. It’s also a great choice for hunters who are sensitive to recoil and appreciate the added control offered by the ported design. Hunters that use Benelli and Beretta shotguns will also appreciate this choke tube.
This choke tube might not be ideal for hunters who primarily hunt in extremely dense cover where shots are consistently very close. Hunters prioritizing versatility over maximum range may want to consider a more open choke. There is a tradeoff for the longer range and denser patterns.
Conclusion on CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED BER BEN
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 12GA TKY PORTED BER BEN offers exceptional value for its price, delivering consistent patterns, recoil reduction, and rugged durability. It noticeably improved my shotgun’s performance, and I’m confident it will contribute to a successful turkey season. I wholeheartedly recommend it to any turkey hunter looking for a reliable and effective choke tube that won’t break the bank.
For just $44.49, it’s a small investment that can yield big results in the field. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!