First Thoughts on the Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated
For years, I’ve chased the perfect 20-gauge pattern, especially when using steel shot for waterfowl. The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated choke tube promises to maximize the potential of Federal’s Black Cloud ammunition, but also to improve performance with other steel loads. This claim piqued my interest as I have had mixed results with other aftermarket chokes.
I needed a choke that could consistently deliver tight, effective patterns at longer ranges for those wary ducks that circle high. Too many times I’ve crippled birds with insufficient patterns, and I was looking for a reliable solution. Upon unboxing the Carlson’s choke, I was immediately struck by its solid construction. The titanium coating appeared to be evenly applied and felt smooth to the touch. It certainly felt like a high-quality piece of equipment.
I considered the Briley Spectrum extended choke and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck choke. Ultimately, the Carlsons choke won because of its specific design for Black Cloud ammunition and its attractive price point. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping the on-field performance would match the apparent quality of the choke.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated choke at my local sporting clays range, followed by a goose hunt on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. The range offered a controlled environment to assess patterning with various loads, while the goose hunt provided a realistic field test. The weather conditions were typical for late-season hunting: cold, damp, and windy.
The choke was simple to install, screwing in smoothly to my Benelli Crio Plus barrel threads. Initially, I patterned the choke with Federal Black Cloud #3 steel shot and Winchester Blind Side #2 steel shot. The patterns were noticeably tighter than with the factory modified choke. There were no immediate issues; however, I wanted to see if it lived up to the promise of “long range.”
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple waterfowl hunts and range sessions, the Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated choke has proven to be a reliable performer. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the titanium coating. Cleaning the choke is straightforward, with minimal residue buildup even after firing numerous rounds of steel shot.
Compared to my previous experience with a Browning Invector-Plus extended choke, the Carlsons choke provides consistently tighter patterns at similar distances. The improvement in pattern density has translated to cleaner kills on waterfowl. I am pleased with the choke’s reliability and overall performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated
Specifications
The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated choke tube is designed specifically for 20-gauge Benelli shotguns with Crio Plus threads. It is an extended choke tube, meaning it protrudes slightly beyond the end of the barrel. The choke is designed for Long Range use.
- Gauge: 20 Gauge
- Choke Size: Long Range
- Model: Benelli Crio Plus
- Finish: Titanium Coated
- Titanium Coated Steel Construction: The titanium coating provides added durability and corrosion resistance. It also aids in reducing plastic wad buildup.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the choke’s performance. The Long Range designation indicates that the choke is designed to produce tight patterns at extended distances. The titanium coating contributes to the choke’s longevity and ease of maintenance.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated choke performs its intended job admirably. It constricts the shot pattern effectively, resulting in dense, consistent patterns at distances beyond 40 yards. This is especially beneficial when using steel shot, which tends to spread more quickly than lead.
The choke’s strength lies in its ability to deliver consistent patterns with both Federal Black Cloud ammunition and other brands of steel shot. The primary weakness is that it is not designed for lead shot. It lives up to expectations and delivers tighter patterns as promised.
Design & Ergonomics
The choke’s extended design makes it easy to install and remove, even with gloved hands. The titanium coated steel construction feels solid and well-made. There is no steep learning curve; it’s as simple as screwing in the choke tube.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its titanium coated steel construction, the Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated choke should last for many seasons with proper care. Cleaning is simple. Typically, a solvent and a bore brush will do the trick.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated choke does not come with any additional accessories. However, because it is a standard choke tube design, it is compatible with choke tube wrenches from various manufacturers. There are no customization options available for this specific choke tube.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated
Pros
- Titanium coating for durability and reduced wad buildup.
- Delivers consistently tight patterns with steel shot at longer ranges.
- Easy to install and remove.
- Noticeably improved pattern density compared to factory chokes.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Not suitable for lead shot.
- Limited to Benelli Crio Plus 20 gauge shotguns.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated?
The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated choke is perfect for waterfowl hunters who primarily use steel shot and own a Benelli Crio Plus 20-gauge shotgun. This choke is also well-suited for sporting clays shooters looking to improve their long-range accuracy with steel shot. Anyone seeking a more effective pattern at a distance will benefit from it.
This product may not be ideal for hunters who prefer lead shot or those who own shotguns with different choke threading systems. There aren’t any must-have accessories, but a good quality choke tube wrench is recommended for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated
The Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated choke tube offers excellent value for its price. It delivers on its promise of tighter patterns with steel shot, especially when paired with Federal Black Cloud ammunition. The titanium coating adds durability and makes cleaning easier.
The price of $47.99 is justified, considering the improved performance and build quality. I would recommend the Carlsons Black Cloud Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Long Range Steel Titanium Coated choke to any 20-gauge Benelli Crio Plus owner looking to enhance their long-range performance with steel shot. Get yours today and experience the difference in your next hunt!