The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve patterned more than my fair share of shotguns. When turkey season rolls around, the right choke tube can be the difference between bringing home dinner and going home empty-handed. My quest for tighter, more consistent patterns led me to the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY.
My current 20-gauge, a trusty Winchester 1300, was letting me down with its factory choke. Patterns were spotty beyond 30 yards, which felt like a handicap in the dense woods I hunt. I needed a choke that could deliver a dense, even pattern at longer ranges, giving me a better shot opportunity at those wary gobblers.
The CARL CHOKE TUBE arrived in simple packaging. My initial impression was positive; the stainless steel construction felt solid and well-machined. It exuded quality, unlike some of the cheaper, mass-produced tubes I’ve encountered.
I considered other options like the Primos Jelly Head Max and the Kick’s Gobblin’ Thunder. I ultimately chose the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY based on its reputation for consistent patterns and its reasonable price point. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the CARL CHOKE TUBE was at a local shooting range, patterning it at 25, 30, and 40 yards. The weather was clear and mild, perfect for dialing in a new choke. I used Winchester Long Beard XR ammunition, a turkey load known for its tight patterns.
The difference compared to my factory choke was immediately noticeable. Patterns were significantly tighter and more consistent, especially at 30 and 40 yards. The point of impact was slightly higher than with my factory choke, requiring a minor adjustment to my hold.
Installation was simple, requiring only a choke tube wrench. The only initial issue was that it needed to be really tightened for proper seal to prevent it from backing out after the first shot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season, the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve taken it through various weather conditions, from drizzly mornings to dry, dusty afternoons. The choke has consistently delivered tight patterns, leading to more confident shots and successful hunts.
The stainless steel construction shows no signs of rust or corrosion, even after repeated exposure to moisture. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent keeps it in top condition. It still looks brand new even after several hunting seasons.
Compared to previous chokes I’ve used, the CARL CHOKE TUBE has noticeably improved my effective range. I feel confident taking shots at distances I would have hesitated at before, providing increased effectiveness in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY
Specifications
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY is designed for 20-gauge shotguns with Winchester Win-Choke, Browning Invector, Mossberg Accu-Choke, and Weatherby Multi-Choke thread patterns. It features a .575 constriction, optimized for turkey hunting. The stainless steel construction ensures corrosion resistance and durability.
The non-ported design helps maintain consistent velocities. It’s compatible with lead or copper-plated lead shot, but not recommended for steel shot. The purpose-built design focuses on delivering tight, consistent patterns for ethical and effective turkey hunting.
These specifications are critical for turkey hunting because they dictate the choke’s ability to hold a tight pattern at longer ranges. The tighter the pattern, the higher the probability of hitting the vital areas of the turkey’s head and neck, resulting in a clean and humane kill. The stainless steel construction ensures that the choke can withstand the rigors of hunting in various weather conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY excels at its primary function: delivering tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges. Accuracy is significantly improved compared to factory chokes. Reliability is excellent; the choke has consistently performed without any issues.
Its strengths lie in its ability to produce dense, even patterns with various turkey loads. The primary weakness is that it’s not compatible with steel shot, limiting its versatility for other types of hunting. It absolutely meets and exceeds my expectations for a dedicated turkey choke.
Design & Ergonomics
The CARL CHOKE TUBE boasts a simple yet effective design. The stainless steel construction provides durability and a sleek appearance. Its weight is negligible, not affecting the balance of the shotgun.
The choke is user-friendly and requires no special tools for installation, besides a choke wrench. There’s no learning curve; simply install it, pattern it, and you’re ready to hunt. The ease of use makes it ideal for both experienced and novice turkey hunters.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures that the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY is built to last. It should withstand years of use with proper care. Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent will keep it in excellent condition.
Its robust design suggests that repairs will be minimal, if any. The choke’s durability and low-maintenance design make it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it’s a standalone product. Customization options are limited to choosing the correct thread pattern for your shotgun. It is compatible with most standard choke tube wrenches.
While not directly customizable, the choice of ammunition can significantly impact performance. Experimenting with different turkey loads is recommended to find the best pattern for your shotgun and hunting conditions.
Pros and Cons of CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEYPros
- Significantly tighter and more consistent patterns compared to factory chokes. This directly translates to increased effective range and more ethical kills.
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance and corrosion resistance. It can withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Simple installation and easy maintenance make it user-friendly for both novice and experienced hunters.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value for the performance it delivers. It’s a budget-friendly upgrade that makes a big difference.
- Optimized for turkey hunting with a .575 constriction.
Cons
- Not compatible with steel shot. This limits its versatility for other types of hunting that require non-toxic shot.
- May require minor adjustments to your shotgun’s sights due to a slightly different point of impact compared to factory chokes.
Who Should Buy CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY?
Pros
- Significantly tighter and more consistent patterns compared to factory chokes. This directly translates to increased effective range and more ethical kills.
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance and corrosion resistance. It can withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Simple installation and easy maintenance make it user-friendly for both novice and experienced hunters.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value for the performance it delivers. It’s a budget-friendly upgrade that makes a big difference.
- Optimized for turkey hunting with a .575 constriction.
Cons
- Not compatible with steel shot. This limits its versatility for other types of hunting that require non-toxic shot.
- May require minor adjustments to your shotgun’s sights due to a slightly different point of impact compared to factory chokes.
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY is perfect for turkey hunters seeking tighter, more consistent patterns from their 20-gauge shotguns. It’s ideal for hunters who primarily use lead or copper-plated lead ammunition and want to extend their effective range. This choke is also great for hunters who value durability, ease of use, and affordability.
This product isn’t for hunters who require steel shot compatibility or are satisfied with the performance of their factory chokes. It’s also not necessary for hunters who only take very close-range shots at turkeys. A must-have accessory is a reliable choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY
The CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY is an excellent upgrade for any serious turkey hunter using a 20-gauge shotgun. The tighter, more consistent patterns it delivers can significantly improve your chances of success in the field. At $35.99, the price is definitely justified by the increased performance and confidence it provides.
I would absolutely recommend this choke to anyone looking to maximize the potential of their 20-gauge for turkey hunting. If you’re tired of spotty patterns and missed opportunities, invest in the CARL CHOKE TUBE 20GA WIN EXTENDED TURKEY and experience the difference for yourself!