The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated Made a Bold First Impression
For over a decade, I’ve lived and breathed the world of outdoor and tactical gear. From the biting winds of upland hunts to the soggy marshes of waterfowl season, I’ve seen gear rise and fall, promises delivered and broken. The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated choke tube immediately stood out, promising tighter patterns and enhanced performance with steel shot – a constant quest for any serious waterfowler.
I was seeking a choke tube that could consistently deliver denser patterns at typical waterfowl ranges. Too often, factory chokes or generic aftermarket tubes left gaps, especially with the high-performance loads I prefer. The lure of Carlson’s reputation and the Black Cloud ammunition synergy was too tempting to resist.
The choke tube arrived in simple but effective packaging. The titanium coating gleamed, hinting at both durability and performance. Its extended length gave it a serious look, promising tighter groupings. Compared to my existing factory Benelli choke and a Briley extended choke, the Carlson’s offering felt sturdier and more precisely machined. I was cautiously optimistic; the proof, of course, would be in the pattern.
Initial impressions were positive; the Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated appeared to be a well-made piece of equipment. However, I needed to get to the range and, more importantly, the field, to truly evaluate its worth. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype surrounding its specific design for Black Cloud ammunition.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, using standard patterning boards set at 30 and 40 yards. I primarily used Federal Black Cloud 3-inch #2 shot, but also tested it with Winchester Blind Side and some older Remington steel loads. The conditions were clear and calm, providing a consistent testing environment. Installation was simple and straightforward, just like any Benelli Crio Plus choke.
The immediate difference was noticeable. At 30 yards, the Black Cloud ammunition delivered a much denser and more uniform pattern compared to the factory modified choke. The FliteControl Wad seemed to be doing its job, keeping the shot cloud tighter for longer. Even the Winchester Blind Side performed admirably, producing a tighter pattern than I typically experienced. There were no immediate malfunctions or issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of range testing, I finally got to put the Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated to work during duck season. I hunted in a variety of conditions, from flooded timber to open water, experiencing rain, wind, and even a brief stint of sleet. I estimate I put roughly 200 rounds through it during this period.
The tube held up remarkably well. The titanium coating resisted wear and tear from cleaning and handling. The choke remained easy to remove and clean, showing no signs of rust or corrosion. Compared to my previous experiences with standard steel chokes, this one seemed to require less frequent cleaning to maintain optimal performance.
The improvement in my shooting was noticeable. More birds were folding cleanly, and fewer required follow-up shots. I attribute this to the denser patterns and the consistent performance of the Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated. It has certainly become a permanent fixture in my Benelli.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated
Specifications
- The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated is designed specifically for Benelli shotguns utilizing the Crio Plus choke system. This ensures a perfect fit and reliable performance in compatible models.
- It’s chambered for 12 gauge shotguns. This is the most popular gauge for waterfowl and upland hunting, making it a versatile choice for many hunters.
- The choke is designed for mid-range distances. This typically translates to effective patterns between 25 and 45 yards, ideal for most waterfowl hunting scenarios.
- It’s constructed from steel with a titanium coating. The titanium coating enhances durability and reduces build-up from wads, specifically the FliteControl Wad in Black Cloud ammunition.
- The choke is extended. This aids in pattern development and provides a more gradual constriction, contributing to tighter and more consistent shot groupings.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the choke’s effectiveness in the field. A properly designed and constructed choke tube can significantly improve pattern density and consistency, leading to cleaner kills and fewer wounded birds.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated performs exceptionally well, especially when paired with Federal Black Cloud ammunition. It delivers consistently dense and uniform patterns at typical waterfowl hunting ranges.
The primary strength is its ability to maintain tight patterns with steel shot, even at extended ranges. A potential weakness could be that it’s specifically optimized for Black Cloud, and although it performs well with other steel loads, the optimal results may require experimentation with different brands and shot sizes. It definitely exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The choke’s extended design makes it easy to grip for installation and removal. The titanium coating gives it a sleek look and provides added protection against corrosion.
The choke is well-machined and fits snugly into the Benelli Crio Plus threads. There’s no noticeable learning curve; it’s as simple to use as any other choke tube.
Durability & Maintenance
The titanium-coated steel construction ensures excellent durability and longevity. The choke has proven resistant to wear and tear from repeated use and cleaning.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a standard choke tube cleaner and a brush. The titanium coating minimizes wad build-up, making cleaning easier than with traditional blued steel chokes.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it’s compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for extended chokes.
There aren’t any direct customization options for this specific choke. However, hunters can experiment with different brands and sizes of steel shot to fine-tune their patterns and achieve optimal performance.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated
Pros
- Significantly tighter patterns compared to factory chokes, especially with steel shot.
- Enhanced performance with Federal Black Cloud ammunition due to the choke’s specific design.
- Durable titanium coating that resists wear, corrosion, and wad build-up.
- Extended design allows for easier installation and removal.
- Improved downrange energy and cleaner kills thanks to denser patterns.
Cons
- Performance is optimized for Black Cloud ammunition, which may require experimenting with other brands.
- The price is slightly higher than some generic aftermarket chokes.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated?
The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who prioritize consistent, dense patterns and ethical, clean kills. It’s ideal for those who frequently use steel shot and appreciate the benefits of pairing it with Federal Black Cloud ammunition.
Hunters on a tight budget who prioritize affordability over peak performance might consider other options. Also, those who primarily hunt with lead or other non-steel shot types might not see the same level of benefit.
A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench. Experimenting with different steel shot sizes and brands is recommended to dial in the optimal pattern for your specific hunting conditions.
Conclusion on Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated
The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range Steel Titanium Coated is a worthwhile investment for any serious waterfowl hunter seeking to improve their pattern density and downrange performance. Its durable construction, optimized design for Black Cloud ammunition, and noticeable impact on shooting accuracy make it a standout product in the crowded choke tube market.
The price is justified by the enhanced performance and improved kill ratios it provides. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any waterfowler looking to maximize their effectiveness in the field.
Upgrade your Benelli and experience the difference; you won’t regret it.