Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 Review

First Thoughts on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 promises a significant improvement in shot patterns at moderate distances. Carlson’s is a well-known name in the shotgun accessory market, so my expectations are high. This choke tube, designed for 12-gauge shotguns, aims to deliver consistent and tight patterns at distances where a standard choke might leave gaps.

My interest in this product stemmed from a frustrating dove season last year. I experienced too many missed shots at birds just beyond my usual effective range with a modified choke. I needed something to tighten the pattern without sacrificing too much spread at closer ranges; the Mid Range #2 seemed like the perfect solution.

Upon unboxing, the choke tube felt solid and well-machined. The black oxide finish appears durable and should resist rust. It also has clearly marked notches for easy identification. Compared to a generic, unmarked choke tube I’ve used in the past, the Carlson’s choke exudes quality. I ultimately chose this over a similar product from a lesser-known brand due to Carlson’s reputation and the abundance of positive reviews.

Initially, I’m excited to see how it performs at the range and in the field. If it lives up to its claims, it could become a permanent fixture in my shotgun case. I am hopeful the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 will tighten my patterns and increase my effective range, leading to more successful hunts.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 was at my local shooting range. I was shooting at paper targets at 30 and 40 yards. I used a variety of target loads and game loads to see how the choke pattern would react to each.

The weather was clear and calm, providing ideal conditions. Installation was straightforward; the choke tube screwed in smoothly and securely with my choke wrench. The difference in pattern density compared to my Improved Cylinder choke was immediately noticeable. My initial shots at 30 yards showed a significantly tighter and more consistent pattern. There were fewer gaps and more pellets concentrated in the vital zone.

At 40 yards, the pattern held up remarkably well, with only a slight increase in spread. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 performed as promised. There were no malfunctions or issues with the choke tube loosening during firing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. I’ve used it extensively during dove and quail hunting trips, and it has significantly improved my hit rate on longer shots. The choke has held up well, showing no signs of wear and tear despite exposure to dust and moisture.

Cleaning is easy; a quick scrub with a brush and some solvent is all it takes to remove any residue. Compared to my previous experiences with generic choke tubes, the Carlson’s product offers superior performance and build quality. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 consistently delivers tight patterns. This makes me feel more confident in the field. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 outperforms any expectations I had at its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 is designed for 12-gauge shotguns. It’s specifically classified as a “Mid-Range” choke, indicating its intended use for moderate distances. The choke is made of high-quality steel with a black oxide finish for corrosion resistance.

This “Mid-Range” classification translates to a tighter pattern than Improved Cylinder, but less constricting than a Full choke. The constriction delivers improved pellet density at distances between 30-40 yards. This is where many hunters struggle to consistently hit their targets. The rugged steel construction ensures durability and long life. This makes it resistant to the stresses of repeated firing.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 excels at its primary function: tightening shot patterns at moderate ranges. I’ve seen a noticeable improvement in my shot consistency at 30-40 yards, which is exactly what I was hoping for. The choke tube is reliable, and I haven’t experienced any issues with pattern inconsistencies or malfunctions.

The only minor drawback is that the tighter pattern can make close-range shots (inside 20 yards) a bit more challenging. This is because there is less margin for error. However, this is a trade-off I’m willing to make for the increased effectiveness at longer distances. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 meets and exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The choke tube feels solid and well-machined. The black oxide finish looks great and seems durable. Installation is simple and requires no special tools beyond a standard choke wrench.

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 is user-friendly, even for those with limited experience changing choke tubes. The clearly marked notches make it easy to identify the choke size.

Durability & Maintenance

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 appears to be built to last. After weeks of use, there are no signs of wear or corrosion. Regular cleaning with a brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. The durability of the steel and the protective finish ensure that the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 will provide many seasons of reliable performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2 doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone product. However, it is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for 12-gauge shotguns. Carlson’s offers a wide range of choke tubes for different applications. So it can be easily paired with other Carlson’s chokes to cover a broader spectrum of shooting scenarios. The threads are also standard, making it compatible with various brands of choke tubes.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Mid Range #2