The CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 Made a Bold First Impression
The CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 isn’t just another choke tube; it’s a specialized tool designed to maximize the effectiveness of Winchester’s Long Beard Turkey loads. As a seasoned outdoor gear specialist with a decade of experience under my belt, I’ve seen countless choke tubes promising tight patterns, but few deliver as consistently as this one. This choke promises a devastating gobbler-killing combination, something I needed to test.
My hunting grounds have become increasingly pressured over the years, demanding shots at greater distances. I was seeking a choke tube that could consistently deliver tight patterns beyond the standard 40-yard range, extending my effective hunting radius. The claims of increased penetration and tighter patterns with the CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 immediately grabbed my attention.
Unboxing the choke tube, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction. The blued finish appeared durable, promising resistance to the elements. While a choke tube isn’t the most visually exciting piece of gear, the clear and precise threading signaled quality machining.
I considered other choke tubes like the Primos Jelly Head Max and the Indian Creek Black Diamond Strike. Ultimately, I chose the CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 due to its specific optimization for Winchester Long Beard loads. The dedication to a specific ammunition promised a potentially superior, dialed-in performance.
My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. I’ve been burned before by marketing hype, but the CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 felt different. There was a feeling that this choke was crafted for a singular purpose, and I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a familiar environment for pattern testing. I used a Remington 870 shotgun with a 26-inch barrel, paired with Winchester Long Beard 12-gauge, 3-inch shells loaded with #5 shot. The conditions were dry, with a slight breeze – ideal for evaluating pattern density and consistency.
The CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 was easy to install using a standard choke tube wrench. After a few shots to get a feel for the setup, I began patterning at 30, 40, and 50 yards. I immediately noticed a significantly tighter pattern compared to my previous choke tube.
After the first few shots, the only real surprise was how consistent the patterns were at longer distances. There were no noticeable flyers, and the core of the pattern remained dense and centered on the target.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season and several range sessions, the CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no visible signs of wear or corrosion, despite exposure to rain, mud, and typical hunting conditions. The choke tube remains easy to remove and install, with no binding or sticking.
Cleaning the choke is simple; a quick scrub with a solvent and choke tube brush keeps it in top condition. It’s crucial to remove any plastic residue buildup to maintain optimal performance. Compared to previous choke tubes I’ve used, the CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 consistently delivers tighter and more predictable patterns.
The extended range and dense patterns have noticeably improved my hunting success. My confidence in taking longer shots has increased, and I’ve harvested several birds that would have been out of range with my previous setup.
Breaking Down the Features of CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665
Specifications
The CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 is specifically designed for Remington shotguns with a Pro Bore choke system. It is a 12-gauge choke tube with a .665-inch exit diameter, optimized for Winchester Long Beard Turkey Loads. This constriction creates exceptionally tight patterns downrange.
The choke is constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel for maximum strength and durability. Its extended design facilitates easy installation and removal. The extended length also aids in pattern development.
The .665-inch constriction is critical for achieving the tightest possible patterns with Winchester Long Beard ammunition. This diameter is meticulously calculated to work in harmony with Shot-Lok Technology. The material and heat treating ensure that the choke tube withstands the rigors of repeated use with heavy turkey loads.
Performance & Functionality
The CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 excels at producing extremely tight, dense patterns at extended ranges. It provides consistent performance, shot after shot. The key strength is its ability to maintain pattern integrity beyond 40 yards.
One potential weakness might be its specialization for Long Beard loads; it may not perform optimally with other ammunition. However, for hunters committed to Winchester Long Beard, this is a significant advantage. The choke certainly exceeds expectations, delivering patterns comparable to custom, high-end choke tubes.
Design & Ergonomics
The choke tube features a straightforward, functional design. The blued finish provides good corrosion resistance. The extended length allows for easy hand tightening, though a choke wrench is still recommended for secure installation.
The CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or adjustments beyond standard choke tube installation. The only real learning curve involves understanding how different loads pattern through the choke at various distances.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from high-quality steel, the CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 is built to last for many seasons. Proper cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent rust and maintain optimal performance. It’s a durable piece of equipment if cared for properly.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a choke tube brush and solvent to remove residue buildup. The choke tube should require minimal maintenance beyond basic cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone product. There aren’t really any customization options available for a choke tube, beyond choosing different loads to test.
The choke tube is compatible with any Remington shotgun that utilizes the Pro Bore choke system. However, remember that this choke is optimized specifically for Winchester Long Beard Turkey Loads.
Pros and Cons of CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665
Pros
- Extremely tight and dense patterns at extended ranges, improving effective hunting distance.
- Designed specifically for Winchester Long Beard Turkey Loads, maximizing their performance.
- Durable construction using heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting reliability.
- Easy to install and remove with standard choke tube wrench.
- Noticeably improved hunting success due to consistent patterns.
Cons
- Optimized for Winchester Long Beard Loads, and may not perform optimally with other brands or load types.
- Pattern testing is still necessary to determine the ideal range and load combination for your specific shotgun.
Who Should Buy CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665?
The CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who prioritize maximum range and pattern density with Winchester Long Beard ammunition. It’s ideal for hunters in pressured areas where longer shots are often necessary. Anyone looking to improve their effective range will benefit.
This choke is not the best choice for hunters who prefer using a variety of ammunition brands or load types. It’s also not essential for hunters who primarily hunt in areas with very close-range shots.
A quality choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal. Patterning targets are also essential for fine-tuning your setup.
Conclusion on CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665
The CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 is a specialized tool that delivers exceptional performance when paired with Winchester Long Beard ammunition. Its ability to produce incredibly tight patterns at extended ranges makes it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters. The choke lives up to its claims and provides a tangible advantage in the field.
At $46.99, the price is certainly justified by the improved performance and increased effective range. It offers a significant upgrade over standard choke tubes.
I would absolutely recommend the CARL LONG BEARD TURKEY REM PRO BORE 12GA .665 to any turkey hunter seeking to maximize the potential of Winchester Long Beard loads. If you’re serious about turkey hunting and want to extend your range, this choke is a must-have. Invest in your success and experience the difference a dedicated choke tube can make.