The Carlsons 38003 TSS Turkey Remington 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlsons 38003 TSS Turkey Remington 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube promises tighter patterns with Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) for turkey hunting. It’s a specialized tool designed to maximize the effectiveness of the increasingly popular (and expensive!) TSS loads in 20-gauge Remington shotguns. This choke aims to transform a standard shotgun into a turkey-slaying machine, offering improved range and pattern density.
My journey to this choke began with frustration. I’d been using a factory full choke in my Remington 870 20-gauge, but my patterns with TSS shot were inconsistent and far from ideal. I needed a solution that would provide denser, more reliable patterns at longer ranges, giving me the confidence to take ethical shots on wary gobblers.
The Carlsons choke arrived in simple, functional packaging. My first impression was of solid, durable construction. The black finish on the 17-4 stainless steel looked professional and ready for the harsh conditions of spring turkey season.
I considered a few other chokes before landing on the Carlsons 38003. There are cheaper options, like some of the extended ported chokes from lesser-known brands. I ultimately chose the Carlsons due to their reputation for quality and the specific design for TSS loads.
I was cautiously optimistic. The build quality seemed excellent, and the specifications aligned with my needs, but the real test would be at the range and in the field. I was hoping for a significant improvement in pattern density and consistency over my factory choke.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons 38003 TSS Turkey Remington 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at the local shooting range. I set up targets at 30 and 40 yards, using a variety of 20-gauge TSS loads with shot sizes ranging from #7 to #9. The difference was immediately noticeable compared to my factory full choke.
The patterns were significantly tighter and more uniform, with a higher concentration of pellets in the vital head and neck region of the turkey target. Even in slightly windy conditions, the Carlsons choke delivered consistent patterns. I appreciated how easy the choke was to install using a standard choke wrench.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and numerous trips to the range, the Carlsons 38003 has held up exceptionally well. I have about 200 rounds through the choke. There are no signs of wear or damage, and the finish remains intact despite exposure to rain, mud, and the occasional accidental bump against trees in the woods.
Cleaning is simple. A quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent after each shooting session keeps it in perfect condition. Compared to my previous choke experience, the Carlsons choke is far superior in terms of pattern performance and consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons 38003 TSS Turkey Remington 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Specifications
- This choke is designed for Remington 20-gauge shotguns. It ensures compatibility with a wide range of Remington 20-gauge models, providing versatility for Remington users.
- The constriction is .555, specifically optimized for TSS loads. This constriction creates a tighter pattern, crucial for effective turkey hunting with TSS shot.
- It’s made from 17-4 stainless steel. This material provides excellent durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance in harsh outdoor conditions.
- The choke tube has an extended design. The extended portion allows for easy removal and installation and potentially aids in pattern development.
- It has a black finish. The finish minimizes glare and provides a sleek, tactical appearance.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the choke’s ability to deliver tight, consistent patterns with TSS loads. The .555 constriction is the key to maximizing the effectiveness of TSS shot, while the stainless-steel construction ensures durability and longevity.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons 38003 excels in its primary function: delivering tight, dense patterns with TSS ammunition. At 40 yards, it consistently puts a high percentage of pellets within a 10-inch circle, providing the confidence needed for ethical and effective turkey hunting. The choke performs exactly as advertised.
The only minor weakness I’ve noticed is that it’s highly specialized for TSS. Using lead or steel shot through this choke would likely result in less-than-optimal patterns. It meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons choke features a straightforward, functional design. The extended portion makes it easy to install and remove with a standard choke wrench. The choke’s weight is negligible.
It is extremely user-friendly with virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, this choke is built to last. Its exceptional material composition ensures longevity. With proper cleaning and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons 38003 doesn’t come with any accessories, but it’s compatible with standard choke wrenches. There are no specific customization options for the choke itself, as it’s designed as a standalone performance upgrade.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons 38003 TSS Turkey Remington 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and dense patterns with TSS ammunition.
- Constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and remove with a standard choke wrench.
- Significantly improves effective range for turkey hunting with TSS.
- Provides consistent and reliable patterns in various weather conditions.
Cons
- Optimized specifically for TSS ammunition; may not perform well with lead or steel.
- Relatively expensive compared to general-purpose choke tubes.
Who Should Buy Carlsons 38003 TSS Turkey Remington 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?
The Carlsons 38003 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who use a Remington 20-gauge shotgun and want to maximize the effectiveness of TSS ammunition. If you’re committed to using TSS for its superior range and pattern density, this choke is a must-have. It is not for hunters who primarily use lead or steel shot, as the specialized constriction may not provide optimal patterns with these materials.
A must-have accessory is a quality choke wrench for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Carlsons 38003 TSS Turkey Remington 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
The Carlsons 38003 TSS Turkey Remington 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is a specialized choke tube that delivers exceptional performance with TSS ammunition. The price is justified by the significant improvement in pattern density and effective range it provides. I would highly recommend it to any serious turkey hunter looking to get the most out of their Remington 20-gauge and TSS loads.
If you’re ready to take your turkey hunting game to the next level, invest in the Carlsons 38003. You won’t be disappointed.