First Thoughts on the Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga.
The Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. isn’t exactly the kind of gear that sets your pulse racing like a high-end optic or a custom-built rifle. It’s a functional piece, a tool designed for a specific purpose, and Carlson Choke Tubes delivers on that promise. This choke tube aims to provide a wide, even spread for close-range shooting with a 20-gauge shotgun, primarily for applications like upland bird hunting in thick cover or close-quarters pest control.
I was on the hunt for a choke that would consistently deliver a wider pattern than my modified choke. I needed something for quail hunting in dense brush, where shots are often fast and at very close range. The promise of a cylinder bore, offering the least amount of constriction, seemed ideal to achieve consistent results.
Upon receiving the Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga., I was immediately struck by its simple, robust design. The steel construction feels solid and well-machined. It inspires confidence that it will hold up to repeated use and exposure to the elements. Compared to some cheaper aftermarket chokes I’ve handled, the Carlson offering felt noticeably superior in material quality and overall finish.
I considered other cylinder chokes from Briley and Trulock, both reputable brands, but the price point of the Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. at $16.99 was a major deciding factor. I figured, for that price, even if it performed only adequately, it would still be a worthwhile addition to my choke tube collection. My first impression was positive; it seemed like a well-made, no-frills choke that would hopefully deliver the desired pattern.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. was a local sporting clays range. I wanted to gauge its pattern at various distances before taking it into the field. I patterned it at 15, 20, and 25 yards using a variety of 20-gauge loads – from light target loads to heavier field loads.
Performance was as expected, with patterns opening up significantly faster than with my improved cylinder choke. Even in slightly windy conditions, the patterns remained consistent and even. The ease of use was straightforward, screwing in and out of my Remington 870 with no issues, thanks to the well-cut threads.
I didn’t encounter any immediate problems, but I did notice that the wider pattern required a bit more precise aiming. I had to consciously focus on centering the target within the pattern.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple quail hunting trips in South Texas brush country, the Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. has proven to be reliable and durable. There are no signs of wear or tear on the choke tube itself. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a bore brush and solvent after each use.
Maintaining the choke involves removing it after each use. This ensures no plastic wad residue builds up and preventing it from becoming stuck in the barrel. Compared to my experiences with other choke tubes, the Carlson has performed admirably. It has consistently provided the wide, even patterns I need for close-range upland bird hunting.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga.
Specifications
The Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. is designed specifically for Remington 20-gauge shotguns. It boasts a .620-inch exit diameter, which denotes a true cylinder bore with virtually no constriction. It’s constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, providing excellent durability and resistance to corrosion.
This .620-inch diameter is crucial because it allows the shot to spread quickly, making it ideal for close-range engagements. The choice of stainless steel is also a key factor, guaranteeing the choke’s longevity even when exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. excels at delivering wide, even patterns at close range. Its performance is optimized for situations where quick target acquisition and close-quarters shooting are paramount. It is incredibly effective for flushing birds out of thick cover.
The primary strength lies in its ability to produce consistent, predictable patterns, eliminating the risk of overly tight groupings at close distances. Its only perceived weakness, is that it’s not suitable for longer shots. It meets expectations by providing the intended wide spread pattern needed in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. features a simple, functional design. The choke tube is easy to install and remove using a choke wrench, and its smooth exterior finish prevents snagging. The build quality is excellent.
The steel feels substantial in hand, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand repeated use and harsh conditions. The lack of knurling or extended design keeps it streamlined with the shotgun barrel. This streamlined design prevents it from getting caught on brush or clothing. There’s practically no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless-steel construction, the Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. is built to last. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are all that’s needed to maintain its performance for years to come. I anticipate it lasting for many seasons of hard hunting.
This choke tube can be cleaned using standard shotgun cleaning supplies. Maintaining it is a simple task that requires very little effort.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. does not come with any included accessories, as it is a standalone choke tube. Customization is limited to the choice of ammunition used, as different loads will produce slightly different patterns. The choke is fully compatible with any standard Remington 20-gauge choke wrench.
While not a customization option, experimenting with different shot sizes can help fine-tune the pattern for specific game or shooting scenarios. The Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. is designed to work seamlessly with a wide variety of 20-gauge loads.
Pros and Cons of Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga.
Pros
- Provides exceptionally wide patterns at close range, perfect for upland bird hunting in thick cover.
- Durable stainless-steel construction ensures long-lasting performance even in harsh conditions.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring minimal effort to keep it in top condition.
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible option for any 20-gauge shotgun owner.
- Improves hit probability on fast-moving, close-range targets.
Cons
- Pattern spreads too quickly for longer shots, limiting its versatility in open areas.
- Lack of extended design or knurling makes it slightly more difficult to remove without a choke wrench.
Who Should Buy Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga.?
The Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. is perfect for upland bird hunters who frequently hunt in dense cover where shots are typically close and fast. It is also ideal for anyone needing a wide pattern for close-range pest control or home defense applications.
This choke is not suitable for trap or skeet shooting. People shooting in open fields where longer shots are expected, should skip this choke. A must-have accessory is a quality choke wrench to facilitate easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga.
The Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. is a simple, effective, and affordable choke tube that delivers on its promise of providing wide, even patterns for close-range shooting. The price is justified, providing excellent value for its intended purpose.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable cylinder choke for their 20-gauge shotgun. For a minimal investment, you get a well-made choke that will significantly improve your hit probability in close-quarters hunting scenarios. Grab a Carlson Rem-Choke, Cylinder, 20 ga. today and experience the difference it makes in the field!