First Thoughts on the Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga.
The Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. isn’t just another shotgun choke; it’s a ticket to tighter patterns and shattered clays, especially for those of us who appreciate the subtle nuances of shotgun sports. For a mere $16.99, Carlson’s promises to deliver enhanced performance and consistent results with its standard Invector choke system. As someone with over a decade of experience in the outdoors and tactical gear, including countless hours spent on the skeet range, I was eager to see if this choke could live up to the hype and offer a tangible improvement over factory chokes.
My shotgun was struggling to consistently break clays on stations 3, 4, and 5. I needed a choke that provided a more consistent spread at those mid-range distances. I ordered the Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. and eagerly awaited its arrival, hoping it would be the solution I was looking for.
The Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The choke itself felt solid and well-machined in my hand. Its dark finish looked durable and resistant to wear. I immediately compared it to the factory-installed modified choke that I had been using previously. The Carlson felt slightly heavier, suggesting a potentially more robust construction.
Compared to a Briley choke I use on my 12-gauge, the Carlson lacks the fancy porting and polished finish, but it’s also significantly less expensive. I chose the Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. over a competing Trulock choke because of its reputation for consistent patterns and its affordability. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; this seemingly simple choke had the potential to seriously improve my skeet scores.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. was at my local skeet range on a crisp autumn morning. The weather was ideal, with clear skies and a slight breeze. I brought along a variety of 20-gauge shells, ranging from light target loads to heavier field loads, to see how the choke performed with different ammunition.
The Carlson choke installed easily and securely with my choke wrench. The initial results were promising; I immediately noticed tighter and more consistent patterns, especially at the longer stations on the skeet field. The improved patterns translated to more broken clays and a noticeable boost in my confidence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. continues to impress. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite regular cleaning and exposure to various weather conditions. The choke remains easy to install and remove, and it holds securely in place during shooting sessions.
Cleaning is a breeze; a simple scrub with a bore brush and solvent is all it takes to remove any residue. The Carlson outperforms the factory choke significantly, offering tighter patterns and increased confidence on the skeet field. My scores have improved noticeably, and I consistently break more clays than before.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga.
Specifications
The Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. is designed for 20-gauge shotguns with a standard Invector choke system. Its bore diameter is .615 inches, optimized for skeet shooting. The choke is constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel. This ensures durability and resistance to corrosion.
The choke weighs approximately 1.5 ounces, adding minimal weight to the shotgun. Its extended design facilitates easier installation and removal. These specifications are important because they directly impact the choke’s performance and longevity. A properly sized bore diameter is crucial for achieving optimal patterns, while durable materials ensure that the choke can withstand the rigors of frequent use.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. excels at its intended purpose: improving patterns for skeet shooting. It consistently delivers tighter and more uniform patterns at typical skeet distances. This results in more broken clays and higher scores.
The choke’s strengths lie in its consistency and affordability. Its primary weakness is its lack of adjustability; it’s designed specifically for skeet and may not be ideal for other shooting disciplines. The Carlson exceeds expectations by providing a significant performance boost at a fraction of the cost of more expensive chokes.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. features a simple yet effective design. The choke feels well-made and substantial in hand. The extended design facilitates easy installation and removal.
The choke is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to install. There is no learning curve associated with its use; simply install it and start shooting.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. is built to last. Its stainless-steel construction ensures resistance to corrosion and wear. Regular cleaning is all that’s needed to maintain its performance.
The choke should provide years of reliable service with proper care. Repair is rarely necessary, given its robust construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available for this specific model. However, Carlson offers a wide range of chokes for various shooting disciplines and shotgun models.
The Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. is compatible with any 20-gauge shotgun that accepts standard Invector chokes. This makes it a versatile upgrade for a wide range of shotguns.
Pros and Cons of Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga.
Pros
- Noticeably tighter and more consistent shot patterns for skeet shooting.
- Durable stainless-steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Exceptionally affordable, offering excellent value for the money.
- Easy to install and remove with a standard choke wrench.
- Improved skeet scores and increased shooter confidence.
Cons
- Specifically designed for skeet shooting; not ideal for other shooting disciplines.
- No customization options available.
Who Should Buy Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga.?
The Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. is perfect for skeet shooters looking to improve their scores without breaking the bank. It’s also ideal for beginner and intermediate shooters who want a simple and effective upgrade over factory chokes. Anyone who owns a 20-gauge shotgun with a standard Invector choke system and enjoys skeet shooting will benefit from this product.
Those who shoot a variety of shotgun sports and require adjustable chokes or chokes for specific hunting applications should skip this product. People who want a choke with advanced features or customization options may also want to look elsewhere. A must-have accessory for the Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. is a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga.
The Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. is a standout performer in the world of shotgun chokes, delivering exceptional value and tangible results for skeet shooters. For just $16.99, this simple yet effective choke offers a significant improvement over factory chokes. The price is absolutely justified considering the enhanced performance and durability it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Carlson Win-Choke, Skeet, 20 ga. to anyone looking to elevate their skeet game without emptying their wallet. This is an essential upgrade that will have you breaking clays with confidence in no time. Get yours today and experience the difference!