First Thoughts on the CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA.
The CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA., specifically the .575 Turkey Std Invector model, promises to tighten patterns and extend the effective range of your 20-gauge shotgun. For a price point of $16.99, it’s an affordable upgrade that could significantly enhance your turkey hunting experience. I was immediately intrigued by the potential to improve my shot consistency without breaking the bank.
My quest for this choke tube stemmed from a persistent problem: inconsistent patterns with my old 20-gauge during turkey season. I was looking for a way to ethically and effectively harvest birds at slightly longer distances. I craved tighter groupings and a more reliable performance.
Upon receiving the choke tube, I was pleasantly surprised by the solid construction and smooth finish. The black oxide coating looked durable, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of the field. It felt heavier than the factory choke, a possible indicator of higher-quality steel.
I considered other extended turkey chokes from Patternmaster and Trulock, but their significantly higher price tags steered me towards the CARLSONS option. While I acknowledge that those brands often boast superior materials and tighter tolerances, I wanted to test if a budget-friendly choke could deliver acceptable results. My initial excitement was tempered by a dose of cautious optimism; could something this affordable truly perform?
Real-World Testing: Putting CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place at a local shooting range, patterning the CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA. with various turkey loads at 30 and 40 yards. The weather was clear and cool, perfect for a day of shooting. I used a Caldwell Lead Sled to ensure consistent aiming.
Performance was noticeably better than with the factory modified choke I was previously using. The patterns were significantly tighter, with a higher percentage of pellets hitting the vital zone on a turkey target. However, some premium loads patterned too tightly, resulting in “donut” patterns with a sparse center.
Installation was straightforward, requiring only a choke tube wrench (not included). After a few shots, the tube remained securely in place. No issues arose during this initial outing, which boosted my confidence in the choke’s functionality and reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continued use, including two turkey hunting trips in varying conditions (one dry and dusty, the other damp and foggy), the CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA. has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, despite not being meticulously cleaned after every use.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a brush and solvent removes any powder residue. The choke tube continues to thread smoothly into the barrel. It’s proven more durable than I initially expected for its price point.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the CARLSONS tube offers a tangible improvement in pattern density and effective range. While it might not match the performance of a high-end custom choke, it delivers exceptional value and noticeable results for a fraction of the cost. It certainly has helped me harvest multiple birds cleanly and effectively.
Breaking Down the Features of CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA.
Specifications
The CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA. (.575 Turkey Std Invector) is designed to fit any 20-gauge shotgun with Invector (Winchester, Mossberg, Browning) compatible choke threads. Its constriction is .575 inches, optimized for tight patterns with turkey loads. The choke tube is constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel for durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel. This ensures strength and longevity even with repeated use and exposure to harsh elements.
- Constriction: .575 inches. This tight constriction is specifically designed to deliver dense patterns at extended ranges when turkey hunting.
- Compatibility: Invector Choke Systems. This choke is made for shotguns threaded to accept Invector style chokes, making it versatile for a wide variety of 20 gauge shotguns.
These specifications are critical for achieving tight patterns, which translate to more ethical and successful turkey hunts. The stainless steel construction ensures the choke can withstand the pressures and vibrations of repeated shots. The Invector compatibility makes it a drop-in replacement for many popular 20-gauge shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA. excels at creating extremely tight patterns with the right ammunition. It extends the effective range of a 20-gauge shotgun for turkey hunting, allowing for ethical shots at distances beyond what a standard choke could achieve. However, it’s crucial to pattern the choke with different loads to find the optimal combination.
The choke’s primary strength lies in its ability to deliver dense, consistent patterns. Its main weakness is that it can pattern too tightly with certain loads, leading to potential holes in the pattern. I found it exceeded my expectations for a budget-friendly choke tube.
Design & Ergonomics
The CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA. features a simple, functional design. The black oxide finish offers some degree of corrosion resistance. Its extended design facilitates easy installation and removal with a choke tube wrench.
The build quality feels solid and robust for the price. It is heavier than a flush-mounted factory choke, but this does not significantly affect the balance of the shotgun. No learning curve exists; simply thread it into the barrel and tighten.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction suggests good longevity. After several weeks of use and exposure to various weather conditions, there are no signs of wear or corrosion. Proper cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent seizing.
Maintenance involves only cleaning after use with a bore brush and solvent, followed by a light coat of gun oil on the threads. The choke tube is designed to be easily removed and reinstalled. The simple design makes it a breeze to keep running smoothly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA. does not come with any included accessories besides the choke tube itself. A choke tube wrench is necessary for installation and removal but is sold separately. There aren’t any significant customization options for this specific choke tube.
It is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Invector chokes. The choke is meant to work with a specific shotshell load, so experimentation with different brands and shot sizes is recommended. You could also customize your shotgun setup with aftermarket sights or a red dot optic.
Pros and Cons of CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA.
Pros
- Significantly tighter patterns compared to factory chokes.
- Extends the effective range of a 20-gauge for turkey hunting.
- Durable stainless steel construction.
- Affordable price point.
- Easy to install and maintain.
Cons
- May pattern too tightly with some loads, creating holes in the pattern.
- Choke tube wrench not included.
Who Should Buy CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA.?
This choke tube is perfect for turkey hunters on a budget who want to improve the performance of their 20-gauge shotgun. It’s also a great option for those new to turkey hunting and experimenting with different choke constrictions. It benefits hunters looking for ethical and effective shots at longer distances.
This product isn’t ideal for hunters who only hunt at very close range (inside 20 yards) or those unwilling to pattern their shotgun with different loads to find the optimal combination. Anyone who demands the absolute best possible performance, regardless of price, should explore higher-end choke tubes from brands like Patternmaster or Trulock. A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench.
Conclusion on CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA.
The CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA. is an excellent value for the money. It delivers a noticeable improvement in pattern density and effective range for turkey hunting at an incredibly affordable price. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, and installation is simple.
The low price is more than justified by the increase in performance, giving you more confidence in the field. I would definitely recommend this choke tube to any 20-gauge turkey hunter looking to upgrade their setup without breaking the bank. If you are looking to increase your chances of a successful hunt, then pick up the CARLSONS CHOKE TUBE 20GA. and pattern it with various loads to find what works best in your shotgun.