First Thoughts on the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY promises to be a drop-in upgrade, offering tighter patterns and extended range for turkey hunters using 20-gauge shotguns with Beretta/Benelli Mobilchoke systems. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this extended turkey choke aims to deliver consistent performance in the field, something many factory chokes struggle to do. I was keen to test its claims and see if it could improve my success rate this upcoming spring turkey season.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a choke tube that provides consistently tight patterns in my Benelli Nova 20 gauge. The factory choke was adequate, but it often produced patterns with too many holes, leading to missed birds and frustrating hunts. I needed a choke that could reliably deliver a dense, even pattern at ethical ranges, maximizing my chances of bringing home a gobbler.
Upon unboxing the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY, I was immediately impressed with its solid construction. The stainless steel felt robust and corrosion-resistant, promising longevity even in harsh hunting conditions. The extended design also gives it a more aggressive look, something I appreciate from a purely aesthetic perspective.
I considered several other turkey chokes, including models from competitors like Trulock and Patternmaster. However, the Carlson’s choke stood out due to its competitive price point and the reputation of Carlson’s Choke Tubes for producing quality, reliable products. The extended design and specific .575 constriction were also appealing, promising the tight patterns I was seeking.
My first impression was definitely positive. The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY felt well-made and looked like it would be a significant upgrade from my factory choke. I was excited to get it to the range and see how it performed with different turkey loads.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY at my local shooting range, setting up targets at 20, 30, and 40 yards. The weather was mild and dry, ideal for patterning different loads. I shot a variety of 20-gauge turkey loads, including Winchester Long Beard XR, Federal Premium TSS, and Hevi-Shot Magnum Blend.
The installation was simple; the choke screwed in smoothly and securely using the included choke tube wrench. I immediately noticed a significant improvement in pattern density compared to my factory choke. At 30 yards, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY produced consistently tight and even patterns with all three loads, with the majority of pellets landing within a 10-inch circle.
The only minor issue I encountered was a slight increase in recoil, likely due to the tighter constriction of the choke. It wasn’t uncomfortable, but it was noticeable compared to the factory choke. Otherwise, the first use was extremely positive; my confidence in the choke’s performance was immediately boosted.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and numerous range sessions, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the stainless steel finish remains corrosion-free despite exposure to various weather conditions. The choke tube continues to screw in and out smoothly, without any binding or resistance.
Maintaining the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY is simple; I clean it after each range session using a choke tube cleaner and a bore brush. The stainless steel material resists fouling and makes cleaning relatively quick and easy. The extended design also makes it easier to grip and remove the choke for cleaning.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes and other aftermarket options, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY has far exceeded my expectations. It consistently delivers tighter, more reliable patterns at longer ranges, providing a significant advantage in the field. I am extremely confident in its ability to perform when it matters most during turkey season.
Breaking Down the Features of CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY
Specifications
- Gauge: 20
- Thread Pattern: Beretta Benelli Mobilchoke
- Popular Firearm Models: Benelli Nova
- Ported: No
- Shot Type: Hevi-Shot, lead, or copper-plated lead. Steel shot should NOT be used in any Turkey Choke Tube.
- Constriction: Turkey .575 constriction
- Material: Stainless Steel
These specifications are critical for turkey hunting. The 20-gauge compatibility makes it suitable for a popular shotgun platform, and the Beretta/Benelli Mobilchoke threading ensures it fits a wide range of shotguns. The .575 constriction is designed to produce extremely tight patterns at longer ranges, increasing the odds of a successful and ethical harvest.
Performance & Functionality
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY performs its job exceptionally well. The .575 constriction tightens patterns significantly, increasing the effective range of a 20-gauge shotgun. It’s reliable, consistently delivering dense and even patterns, shot after shot.
The choke’s greatest strength is its ability to extend the effective range of a 20-gauge for turkey hunting. However, the extremely tight constriction can be a disadvantage at very close ranges (inside 20 yards), as the pattern may be too tight and result in a miss. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a dedicated turkey choke.
Design & Ergonomics
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY boasts a simple yet effective design. The stainless steel construction feels robust and durable, providing confidence in its longevity. The extended design allows for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands.
The choke tube is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or expertise for installation. The extended design also makes it easier to check for tightness before each hunt. Its ergonomic design blends form and function, increasing confidence in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY is built to last. It’s resistant to corrosion and wear, even in harsh hunting environments. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning with a choke tube cleaner and a bore brush is all that’s required. The stainless steel material resists fouling, making cleaning relatively quick and easy. The Carlson’s lifetime warranty also provides added peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY comes with a basic choke tube wrench for installation and removal. There are no specific customization options for this choke tube itself, other than choosing different finishes (though the stainless steel is the most common).
The choke tube is compatible with any 20-gauge shotgun that utilizes the Beretta/Benelli Mobilchoke system. It’s also compatible with a wide range of turkey loads from different manufacturers. It is critical to remember that steel shot should never be used with this or any turkey choke.
Pros and Cons of CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY
Pros
- Significantly tighter patterns, extending the effective range for turkey hunting.
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity and corrosion resistance.
- Compatible with a wide range of 20-gauge shotguns using the Beretta/Benelli Mobilchoke system.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring no special tools or expertise.
- Competitively priced, offering excellent value for the performance it delivers.
Cons
- Not suitable for steel shot, limiting ammunition options in some situations.
- Extremely tight constriction may produce patterns that are too tight at very close ranges, potentially leading to misses inside 20 yards.
Who Should Buy CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY?
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY is perfect for dedicated turkey hunters using 20-gauge shotguns who are seeking tighter patterns and extended range. This is also a great option for those who are using Benelli Nova shotguns as the product details specifically lists it as a popular firearm model. It’s also ideal for those who prioritize durability and reliability in their hunting gear.
This product is not recommended for hunters who primarily hunt waterfowl or other game birds that require the use of steel shot. It is also not the best choice for hunters who typically hunt turkeys at very close ranges (inside 20 yards).
A must-have accessory for this choke tube is a high-quality choke tube cleaner and a bore brush to ensure proper maintenance. Consider purchasing a variety of different turkey loads to pattern with the choke and determine the optimal load for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions.
Conclusion on CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY is an excellent upgrade for any serious turkey hunter using a 20-gauge shotgun with the Beretta/Benelli Mobilchoke system. The tighter patterns and extended range provide a significant advantage in the field, increasing the odds of a successful and ethical harvest.
The price of $35.99 is more than justified by the performance and durability of the product. Carlson’s has a strong reputation for its quality product. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your turkey hunting success.
I would highly recommend the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY to any turkey hunter looking to improve their shotgun’s performance. Take your 20-gauge to the next level with the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA BER/BEN EXTENDED TURKEY and bag that elusive gobbler this spring!