Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. Review

First Thoughts on the Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga.

The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. promises to enhance the performance of your Benelli shotgun, specifically for skeet shooting. I’ve spent countless hours on the skeet range, always searching for that edge, that tighter pattern, that extra clay dusted. My initial search focused on finding a reliable, consistent, and affordable choke tube to replace the factory-supplied one that just wasn’t cutting it.

What really prompted my search was inconsistent breaks during a recent local competition. Some clays were obliterated, others just chipped – a clear sign of an uneven pattern. I was looking for a choke tube that could provide a more uniform spread at skeet distances, boosting my confidence and scores. The Carlsons name is respected in the shotgun world, so it felt like a logical starting point.

Out of the box, the Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. presents a clean, no-nonsense appearance. The stainless steel feels substantial and well-machined. It’s a simple flush-mounted design, prioritizing function over flashy aesthetics. Compared to some extended choke tubes I’ve used, this one definitely keeps a lower profile.

I considered Trulock and Briley chokes, both premium options. However, the price point of the Carlsons tube, combined with the good reputation and USA-made claim, swayed my decision. Ultimately, I was seeking performance without breaking the bank, and Carlsons seemed to strike that balance. Initial excitement was tempered with cautious optimism.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. to the Test

First Use Experience

The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. was first tested at my local sporting clays range, specifically on the skeet field. I was shooting standard 12 gauge, 2 ¾ inch, 1 1/8 oz loads at 1200 fps. The weather was mild and sunny, perfect conditions for a day of shooting.

Installation was a breeze, threading smoothly into my Benelli Crio barrel. The improved pattern was immediately noticeable. The breaks were much more consistent, with fewer chipped clays and more satisfying dust clouds. The Carlsons tube seemed to deliver a more uniform and even spread of shot at the typical skeet distances.

I didn’t experience any issues with the choke tube loosening or any other malfunctions during the initial session. I was pleasantly surprised by the immediate improvement in my scores, adding a few extra points to my round.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite regular cleaning and handling. The stainless steel construction seems durable and resistant to corrosion.

Maintenance is straightforward. I simply clean the tube after each shooting session using a standard choke tube brush and solvent. It threads in and out smoothly every time, indicating good machining and tight tolerances. Compared to my previous factory choke tube, the Carlsons tube offers a noticeably tighter and more consistent pattern.

My scores have consistently improved, solidifying my confidence in the reliability and performance of this choke tube. It definitely outperforms the original equipment.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga.

Specifications

• Gauge: 12 Gauge. This ensures compatibility with standard 12 gauge shotguns, the most common gauge for skeet shooting.
• Choke Size: Skeet. This indicates the specific constriction designed for optimal shot spread at skeet distances.
• Construction: 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel. This robust material provides excellent durability and corrosion resistance, ensuring a long lifespan.
• Compatibility: Benelli Crio Plus Shotguns. This specifies that the tube is designed to fit Benelli shotguns with the Crio Plus barrel system.
• Ammunition: Steel, Lead, & Hevi-Shot Compatible. This versatility allows for a wide range of ammunition options for various shooting scenarios.

The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga.‘s specifications reflect a thoughtful design focused on performance, durability, and compatibility. The choice of stainless steel and the acceptance of various shot types underscore its versatility and longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. excels at its intended purpose: producing consistent and effective shot patterns at skeet distances. The improved pattern density ensures more consistent breaks, translating to higher scores.

The tube’s performance has been consistently reliable throughout my testing. Its effectiveness stems from the precise choke constriction, optimized for the 21-yard average distance in skeet. One minor drawback is that it’s a dedicated skeet choke, so it’s not ideal for other shotgun games or hunting without switching tubes.

The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. meets and even exceeds my expectations for a skeet choke tube in this price range. It delivers consistent patterns and reliable performance, enhancing my skeet shooting experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. features a simple, flush-mounted design. The stainless steel is cleanly machined and finished, giving it a professional look and feel.

The tube threads smoothly into the barrel and sits flush with the muzzle. There’s no learning curve involved – simply screw it in and start shooting.

Durability & Maintenance

The 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction of the Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. is designed for long-lasting durability. It should withstand years of regular use and exposure to the elements.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent is all that’s required to keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. does not come with any accessories. It is a standalone choke tube designed to replace the factory-supplied one.

While there aren’t any direct customization options for the tube itself, the Benelli Crio barrel system is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket choke tubes from various manufacturers. This provides flexibility for shooters who want to experiment with different constrictions and patterns.

Pros and Cons of Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga.

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Who Should Buy Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga.?

The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. is perfect for skeet shooters who own a Benelli Crio Plus shotgun and are looking to improve their scores. This choke tube is ideal for those wanting a reliable, affordable, and effective solution for tighter and more consistent shot patterns.

Those who shoot multiple shotgun disciplines or prefer a single choke tube for everything should skip this product. Dedicated hunters may also want to consider other options with tighter constrictions for longer-range shots.

A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal. Regular cleaning supplies, such as a choke tube brush and solvent, are also essential for maintaining the choke tube’s performance.

Conclusion on Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga.

The Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. is a solid performer that delivers on its promise of improved skeet shooting. Its consistent patterns, durable construction, and affordable price make it an excellent value proposition.

The price is definitely justified, considering the noticeable improvement in performance and the quality of materials used. The Carlsons tube offers a significant upgrade over factory choke tubes at a fraction of the cost of premium brands.

I would personally recommend the Carlsons Benelli Crio Choke Tube Skeet 12 ga. to any skeet shooter looking for a reliable and affordable way to enhance their performance. Upgrade your Benelli today and experience the difference!

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