Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. Review

The Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. Made a Bold First Impression

The world of shotgun chokes can seem deceptively simple, but the right choke can drastically improve your pattern and, ultimately, your success in the field. When I decided to tighten my patterns for late-season pheasant hunting, the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. immediately caught my eye. I’d been struggling with longer shots, and the promise of extra-full constriction from Carlson, a brand known for quality, was appealing.

I was searching for a reliable, cost-effective choke tube to extend my effective range with my trusty 20 gauge Remington 870. I considered a few extended choke tubes from other manufacturers, but the price point of the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga., at just $16.99, was too good to ignore. It offered a potential performance boost without breaking the bank.

Unboxing the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. was straightforward. The choke tube itself felt solid and well-machined. The black finish was clean and appeared durable. My initial impression was one of quiet confidence: a no-frills, functional piece of gear ready for work.

Compared to some of the more elaborately designed and expensive choke tubes on the market, the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. is decidedly utilitarian. However, I chose it because I needed performance, not fancy aesthetics. I wanted a choke that would do its job effectively and reliably, and I had faith in the Carlson name. I was cautiously optimistic, eager to see if it would live up to my expectations on the range and in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. was at my local sporting clays range. I wanted a controlled environment to gauge its performance with various loads. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze. This provided ideal conditions for testing.

I primarily tested the choke with #6 and #7.5 shot loads, the sizes I typically use for pheasant and quail. The difference in pattern density at 30 and 40 yards was immediately noticeable compared to the modified choke I usually use. Clays that would have been chipped or missed entirely were now consistently broken. There were no unexpected issues during installation or initial use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including a few pheasant hunting trips in varying weather conditions, the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve put approximately 200 rounds through it without any issues. The choke remains securely threaded and shows no signs of loosening during firing.

The finish has held up well, with only minor scratches from normal use. Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed to remove powder residue. I have no concerns about its long-term durability based on my experience so far. The Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. has certainly outperformed my expectations, providing tighter, more consistent patterns than I was previously achieving.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga.

Specifications

• Caliber: 20 Gauge. This choke is specifically designed for 20 gauge shotguns.
• Constriction: Extra Full (.585). This tight constriction is ideal for maximizing range and pattern density at longer distances.
• Compatibility: Remington Rem-Choke System. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of Remington shotguns.
• Material: Steel. This provides durability and resistance to wear and tear from repeated use.
• Finish: Black. This protects the choke from corrosion and provides a low-profile appearance.

These specifications matter because they directly influence the choke’s performance and suitability for specific hunting or shooting applications. The extra full constriction is designed for tight patterns at extended ranges, perfect for waterfowl or turkey hunting where longer shots are common. The steel construction ensures the choke can withstand the pressures of repeated shots without deforming.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. excels at producing tight, dense patterns at longer distances. It significantly improved my hit rate on targets beyond 35 yards. This extra full choke is designed to keep the shot together longer.

The primary strength of this choke is its ability to extend your effective range. However, its tight constriction makes it less suitable for close-range shots. I would not recommend this choke for quail hunting in thick cover. Overall, the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. performs exactly as advertised and meets my expectations for long-range performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. is solid. The choke is made from durable steel. It inspires confidence in its ability to withstand repeated use.

The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. The choke is easy to install and remove using a standard choke wrench. There’s no significant learning curve associated with using this product.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its steel construction and straightforward design, the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. should last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent corrosion and maintain optimal performance.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick cleaning after each use. It’s also recommended to apply a light coat of oil to the threads before installation. This choke tube appears to be very easy to maintain and repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. does not come with any additional accessories beyond the choke tube itself. Customization options are limited, as it is a fixed-constriction choke.

It is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Remington Rem-Choke systems. This widespread compatibility ensures easy access to tools for installation and removal. There are no factory options to add on to the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga.

Pros and Cons of Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga.

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Who Should Buy Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga.?

The Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. is perfect for hunters targeting waterfowl, turkey, or pheasant in situations where longer shots are common. It’s also a great choice for sporting clays enthusiasts looking to improve their long-range accuracy. Any shotgun user wanting to maximize their range will appreciate this choke.

This choke is not ideal for hunters who primarily shoot at close range, such as quail hunters in thick cover, where a more open choke is preferable. Someone looking for maximum versitility should also avoid this choke. A choke wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal.

Conclusion on Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga.

The Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. is a simple, effective, and affordable way to improve your shotgun’s long-range performance. At just $16.99, the price is more than justified for the performance gains it offers. It is an incredible value for the price.

I would absolutely recommend this choke to anyone looking to tighten their patterns and extend their effective range with a 20 gauge Remington shotgun. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to boost your long-range shooting performance, the Carlson Rem-Choke, X-Full, 20 ga. is a worthwhile investment. Consider adding this choke to your arsenal today!

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