Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Review

First Thoughts on the Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

The Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube promises tighter patterns and extended range for turkey hunters using 20-gauge shotguns. Carlson’s Choke Tubes is a reputable name, and this choke tube specifically targets the needs of hunters using Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) loads. I was looking for a choke tube that could reliably deliver dense, consistent patterns at longer distances, allowing for more ethical and successful turkey hunts.

My previous choke tubes, while adequate, often produced patterns that were too open at 40 yards, resulting in potential for wounding. Upon unboxing the Carlsons choke, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and sleek black finish. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a durable and well-made product.

I considered other extended turkey chokes from Patternmaster and Trulock, but the Carlsons choke’s reputation for performing exceptionally well with TSS loads, coupled with its competitive price point of $41.35, ultimately swayed my decision. My initial excitement stems from the potential to extend my effective range and ensure cleaner, more humane harvests.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube at my local shooting range, using a Winchester Model 1300 20-gauge shotgun. The weather was slightly overcast, but dry, providing ideal testing conditions. Installation was straightforward, screwing in smoothly and securely with no need for special tools.

I immediately noticed a difference in the report of the gun; it seemed a bit louder and more focused. More importantly, the patterns at 30 and 40 yards were significantly tighter than with my previous choke. There were no unexpected malfunctions or issues during the first range session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use at the range and during scouting trips, the Carlsons choke tube has held up remarkably well. I have fired approximately 50 rounds of various TSS loads through it, and there are no signs of wear or damage. Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with solvent and a bore brush after each use keeps it in perfect condition.

Compared to my previous choke tube, the Carlsons choke consistently produces tighter and more predictable patterns. It provides the confidence needed for ethical shots at longer ranges. I have used this choke while patterning different shot sizes of TSS, from #7 to #9, with success in each application.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

Specifications

• Gauge: 20 Gauge. This choke is specifically designed for 20-gauge shotguns, ensuring a proper fit and optimal performance.
• Choke Size: Turkey. The turkey choke designation indicates a very tight constriction designed to maximize pattern density at typical turkey hunting ranges.
• Model: Invector. This choke is compatible with shotguns using the Invector choke system, a common and widely supported standard.
• Finish: Black. The black finish provides corrosion resistance and reduces glare, making it suitable for hunting situations.
• Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel. This material is known for its high strength, corrosion resistance, and durability, ensuring a long lifespan even with frequent use.
• Extension: Extended. The extended design facilitates easier installation and removal, and also provides a visual reference to ensure the choke is properly installed.
• .555 Constriction: The .555 internal diameter provides a tight constriction, which leads to very dense patterns.

These specifications are vital because they dictate the choke’s compatibility, durability, and effectiveness in producing tight, lethal patterns at extended distances. The 17-4 stainless steel construction is a key factor in the choke’s ability to withstand the high pressures and stresses associated with TSS loads.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black excels at its primary job: delivering exceptionally tight and consistent patterns with TSS ammunition. At 40 yards, I consistently achieved patterns with over 80% of pellets inside a 10-inch circle. This allows hunters to have confidence in making ethical shots at the maximum ranges they practice at.

The primary strength of this choke lies in its ability to maximize the potential of TSS loads, which are known for their high density and penetration. There are no noticeable weaknesses in its performance; it consistently delivers as advertised. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a dedicated turkey choke.

Design & Ergonomics

The Carlsons choke features a simple, functional design. The black finish is non-reflective and blends well with most shotguns. The knurled extension provides a secure grip for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands.

The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a smooth, even finish. There is no learning curve associated with using this choke; it installs just like any other Invector-compatible choke tube.

Durability & Maintenance

The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures that the Carlsons choke is built to last. With proper care and cleaning, it should provide many years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward: simply clean it after each use with a solvent and bore brush to remove any residue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube is primarily a standalone product. However, its performance can be further enhanced by using high-quality TSS ammunition from reputable manufacturers like Apex Ammunition or Federal Premium. No additional accessories are specifically required, as the choke performs optimally as is. There are no user customizable options for this choke.

Pros and Cons of Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

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Who Should Buy Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?

The Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is perfect for serious turkey hunters who use a 20-gauge shotgun and prefer TSS ammunition for its superior performance. It is ideal for hunters seeking to extend their effective range and achieve tighter, more consistent patterns. It is also ideal for youth hunters and smaller framed hunters, who might prefer to use a 20 gauge.

Hunters who primarily use lead or other types of ammunition may not see the full benefit of this choke tube, as it is specifically designed for TSS loads. Also, this choke might not be ideal for someone who calls their turkeys into very close ranges.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality turkey-specific optic, to aid in accurate shot placement at longer distances.

Conclusion on Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

The Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is an outstanding choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and extended range with TSS ammunition. Its durable construction, ease of use, and exceptional performance make it a worthwhile investment for any serious turkey hunter. The price is more than justified considering the performance boost it provides.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube to anyone looking to maximize the potential of their 20-gauge shotgun and TSS ammunition. If you’re ready to improve your turkey hunting success and ensure ethical shots at longer ranges, the Carlsons 38008 TSS Turkey Winchester 20 Gauge 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is a must-have addition to your gear.

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