First Thoughts on the Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel choke tube promises improved patterns for skeet shooting in your Beretta or Benelli shotgun. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless choke tubes come and go. But the combination of Carlson’s reputation for quality and the specific “Skeet” designation piqued my interest.
For years, I’ve relied on factory chokes, often finding them adequate but lacking that extra edge for consistently breaking clays. My frustration with inconsistent patterns during skeet competitions pushed me to explore aftermarket options. I was searching for a choke tube that would reliably deliver a wider, more forgiving pattern at skeet distances, improving my hit ratio and boosting my confidence on the range.
The choke arrived in simple, functional packaging. Upon first inspection, the 17-4 stainless steel construction felt robust and well-machined. The finish was clean and smooth, instilling confidence in its durability and proper fit. Compared to some cheaper, unbranded chokes I’ve seen, the Carlsons tube exuded quality. While other chokes might boast more aggressive porting or fancy coatings, I chose this one for its reputation and straightforward design, hoping for reliable performance without unnecessary frills. My initial impression was positive, but the real test would be its performance on the skeet field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel was at my local skeet range. I installed it in my trusty Benelli Montefeltro and immediately noticed a smoother fit compared to the factory choke. The weather was slightly overcast, with a light breeze – typical conditions for a weekend shoot.
The difference in pattern density was immediately apparent. At station 4, a notoriously challenging shot for me, the clays seemed to break more consistently. The Skeet choke’s wider pattern provided a more forgiving margin of error. There were no jams or any cycling issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple skeet sessions and a few rounds of sporting clays, the Carlsons choke has proven its worth. It has consistently delivered the improved patterns I was hoping for. There are no signs of wear or tear on the stainless steel finish.
Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a bore brush and some solvent keeps it in top condition. Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlsons tube inspires more confidence. I’ve not experienced any degradation in performance. It consistently outperforms the factory choke in creating a wider, more consistent pattern at skeet distances.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel
Specifications
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel is designed for Beretta and Benelli shotguns utilizing the Mobilchoke system. It’s chambered for 12 gauge, ensuring compatibility with standard 12-gauge shells. The constriction is designated as “Skeet,” providing a wider, more open pattern ideal for close-range targets.
The choke is constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, chosen for its strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand repeated use. This material is critical for ensuring longevity and consistent performance, especially in adverse weather conditions. The stainless steel construction resists rust and pitting, preserving the choke’s integrity.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Skeet choke excels at its intended purpose: delivering a consistent and forgiving pattern for skeet shooting. It significantly increases the effective spread of the shot, making it easier to break clays, especially at closer ranges. The choke functions flawlessly with both lead and steel shot (up to specified limitations).
The only minor drawback is the specified limitation on steel shot size (#BB or smaller) and velocity (1550 fps or less) for tighter constrictions. The Skeet choke’s open pattern minimizes this concern for most skeet loads. It has proven to exceed my expectations, providing a tangible improvement in my skeet scores.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons choke features a simple, functional design. The stainless steel construction feels solid and well-made. Installation and removal are straightforward, requiring only a standard choke tube wrench.
There is no noticeable learning curve. The choke immediately improves pattern consistency compared to a factory full choke at skeet distances.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures excellent durability. The choke is resistant to rust and corrosion, even with regular exposure to moisture and cleaning solvents. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove powder residue.
With proper care, this choke should last for many years. It is definitely built to withstand the rigors of frequent use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel is a standalone product. It does not require additional accessories for basic functionality. However, a quality choke tube wrench is essential for proper installation and removal.
While there are no specific customization options for this particular choke, the choke tube itself is an accessory to customize the shotgun’s pattern. It is compatible with any Beretta or Benelli shotgun that uses the Mobilchoke system, making it a versatile upgrade.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel
Pros
- The Skeet constriction delivers a wider, more forgiving pattern, ideal for close-range targets and improving hit ratios.
- Constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel for corrosion resistance and longevity.
- Simple, functional design that’s easy to install and maintain, providing a noticeable improvement in pattern density.
- The affordable price point makes it an accessible upgrade for any Beretta/Benelli Mobil shotgun owner.
- Carlson’s reputation ensures quality and reliability.
Cons
- Steel shot size and velocity limitations for tighter constrictions (though less relevant for the open Skeet choke).
- Lacks the advanced features (e.g., porting, extended design) found on some higher-end choke tubes.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel?
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel is perfect for skeet shooters looking for a simple, affordable, and reliable way to improve their patterns. It is also a great option for sporting clays enthusiasts who frequently encounter close-range targets. Anyone who owns a Beretta or Benelli shotgun with the Mobilchoke system and wants a dedicated skeet choke will benefit from this product.
This choke is probably not for someone exclusively focused on long-range waterfowl hunting, where tighter constrictions are preferred. Someone looking for advanced features like ported chokes or extended designs might also want to explore other options. A quality choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel
The Carlsons Beretta/Benelli Mobil 12 Gauge Skeet 17-4 Stainless Steel is a no-nonsense, high-value upgrade for any Beretta or Benelli shotgun owner looking to improve their skeet shooting performance. Its durable construction, simple design, and affordable price make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced shooters. The choke delivers on its promise of a wider, more consistent pattern, making it easier to break clays and improve your scores.
At a price of $23.38, the Carlsons Skeet choke offers exceptional value. The performance justifies the cost. I would absolutely recommend this choke to anyone looking to enhance their skeet shooting experience without breaking the bank. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!