The Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube isn’t just another piece of metal; it’s a promise of tighter patterns, longer shots, and more successful hunts. Designed specifically for 20-gauge shotguns with the Invector Plus system, this long-range choke aims to extend your effective reach on waterfowl and other game birds. Its 17-4 stainless steel construction and black finish speak to both durability and a subtle, non-reflective profile in the field.
For years, I’ve struggled with inconsistent patterns when trying to reach out a bit further on ducks and geese. The factory chokes in my trusty 20-gauge were fine at typical ranges, but beyond 35 yards, things got dicey, resulting in wounded birds and lost opportunities. I was seeking a choke tube that could consistently deliver tight, even patterns at extended ranges, allowing me to ethically and effectively harvest birds at distances that were previously out of reach.
Unboxing the Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black was a satisfying experience. The choke tube felt solid and well-made, with a smooth, even black finish that looked durable and corrosion-resistant. The Carlsons name is well-known in the choke tube market, instilling immediate confidence.
I considered the Briley Spectrum extended choke and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck, both reputable options. I chose the Carlsons choke, though, because of its reputation for consistent performance with a wide variety of loads, and its more moderate price point. The Carlsons choke also boasted the Delta Waterfowl branding, which, while not a guarantee of performance, suggested it was designed with serious waterfowl hunters in mind.
My first impression was one of quiet confidence. The Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube exuded quality and purpose. I was eager to get it to the range and see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black took place at my local shooting range. I set up targets at 30, 40, and 50 yards to assess pattern density and consistency. I patterned the choke with a variety of 20-gauge loads, including both lead and steel shot in various sizes and brands, which allowed me to see which performed best through this particular choke.
The choke tube performed exceptionally well in dry conditions, producing tight, even patterns at all three distances with the preferred load combinations. I observed a noticeable increase in pattern density at 40 and 50 yards compared to my factory modified choke. The patterns were also consistently centered, which is crucial for ethical and effective waterfowl hunting.
Installation was straightforward, requiring only a choke tube wrench. The choke tube tightened securely and showed no signs of loosening during the testing session. There were no immediate issues or surprises after the first use; it simply performed as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during the waterfowl season, the Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube continues to impress. It has proven to be remarkably durable, with no signs of wear and tear despite exposure to mud, rain, and the occasional accidental bump against vegetation. The black finish has held up well, showing no scratches or fading.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple: a quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent after each hunt keeps it in top condition. I’ve also applied a thin coat of choke tube grease to the threads to prevent seizing. Compared to my previous experiences with other choke tubes, this one is significantly easier to clean and maintain.
The Carlsons choke tube has consistently outperformed my expectations, delivering tighter patterns and longer effective range than I thought possible with my 20-gauge. I now feel confident taking longer shots on waterfowl, knowing that I can do so ethically and effectively. This has translated into more successful hunts and fewer wounded birds.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Specifications
The Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black boasts several key technical specifications that contribute to its performance. It is designed specifically for 20-gauge shotguns with the Invector Plus choke tube system. The choke is constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, known for its high strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand repeated use.
The black finish provides a non-reflective surface, reducing glare and helping to conceal the shotgun in hunting situations. It features a constriction diameter of .710, designed to produce tight, long-range patterns. The Long Range designation indicates this choke tube is optimized for shots at extended distances.
These specifications are critical for several reasons. The 17-4 stainless steel ensures durability and longevity, while the constriction diameter and Long Range design work together to deliver tight, consistent patterns at longer distances. This results in a more effective and ethical hunting experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black excels at its intended purpose: extending the effective range of a 20-gauge shotgun for waterfowl hunting. Its accuracy is excellent, consistently producing tight, even patterns at distances beyond 40 yards when paired with appropriate ammunition. Its reliability has been flawless. It has never failed to install correctly or perform as expected.
The choke tube’s main strength is its ability to consistently deliver dense patterns at extended ranges, which greatly increases the chances of a clean kill. One area for potential improvement is the lack of markings indicating the choke designation on the exterior of the tube, requiring the user to remember which choke it is, or remove it to check. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a long-range choke tube.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black features a simple, functional design. The 17-4 stainless steel construction gives it a solid, robust feel. Installation is straightforward, requiring only a standard choke tube wrench.
The choke tube is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. Once installed, it performs its function without any further adjustments or complications.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is built to last. The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides excellent resistance to corrosion and wear, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting. With proper care and maintenance, it should last for many years.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. A quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent after each use is all that is required to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black comes as a standalone choke tube with no additional accessories included. No real customization options exist for choke tubes, beyond selecting different constrictions.
It is compatible with any 20-gauge shotgun that utilizes the Invector Plus choke tube system. It works well with a variety of shotshell brands and shot sizes, offering flexibility in load selection.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at long range.
- Constructed from durable and corrosion-resistant 17-4 stainless steel.
- Simple to install and maintain.
- Noticeably extends the effective range of a 20-gauge shotgun.
- The black finish reduces glare.
Cons
- Lacks external markings indicating choke designation.
- Does not include a choke tube wrench.
Who Should Buy Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?
The Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is perfect for waterfowl hunters who use a 20-gauge shotgun and frequently encounter situations where longer shots are necessary. It’s also ideal for hunters who want to improve their pattern density and consistency at extended ranges. This choke tube is also well-suited to sporting clays shooters seeking long-range performance.
Hunters primarily shooting birds at very close ranges (under 25 yards) may not see a significant benefit from this choke tube. Anyone who doesn’t own a 20-gauge shotgun with the Invector Plus choke system should also avoid this product. A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
The Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is a high-quality choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and longer effective range. Its durable construction and simple design make it a reliable and easy-to-use accessory for any serious waterfowl hunter.
At a price of $39.10, the value proposition is excellent. This choke tube offers a significant performance boost at a fraction of the cost of a new shotgun. I wholeheartedly recommend the Carlsons 07368 Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to any 20-gauge waterfowl hunter looking to extend their reach and improve their success in the field. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!