The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA Made a Bold First Impression
The world of shotgunning is a world of patterns, of understanding how shot spreads from the muzzle to the target. The right choke tube can make all the difference, transforming a frustrating day at the range into a clay-busting triumph, or filling the game bag instead of coming home empty-handed. That’s why I was eager to get my hands on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA, hoping they would live up to their reputation for quality and performance.
For years, I’d been making do with the factory-supplied chokes in my trusty 12-gauge, a compromise at best. I needed something that offered tighter, more consistent patterns for longer shots on waterfowl, and more open patterns for closer-range upland game. I’d heard good things about Carlson’s, particularly their commitment to quality materials and precise manufacturing, and the price point of $49.99 seemed reasonable for a potential upgrade.
My initial impression upon receiving the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA was one of solid build quality. The steel felt substantial, and the finish was smooth and even, suggesting careful attention to detail. Compared to the factory chokes, these felt like a definite step up in terms of materials and construction.
I considered Briley chokes, known for their premium quality, but the price was significantly higher. I also looked at some cheaper, generic options, but I was wary of compromising performance and potentially damaging my shotgun. Carlson’s seemed to strike the right balance between quality and affordability.
I was definitely excited to get these chokes out to the range and see how they performed. The promise of improved patterns and greater versatility was a tantalizing one, and I hoped they would live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA was at my local sporting clays range. The weather was cooperative: dry, with a slight breeze – ideal conditions for testing. I cycled through a Modified, Improved Cylinder, and a Full choke throughout the afternoon on various clay target presentations.
The immediate difference was noticeable in the consistency of the breaks. Previously, I’d experience frustratingly inconsistent breaks, especially on longer crossing targets. With the Carlson’s chokes, the breaks were cleaner and more reliable, suggesting a tighter, more uniform pattern.
Switching between chokes was easy, thanks to the well-machined threads and the included choke tube wrench. There were no issues with sticking or cross-threading, a common problem with cheaper aftermarket chokes. My confidence grew with each station and my scores improved.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA have continued to impress. I’ve used them extensively for sporting clays, trap, and even some dove hunting. They have consistently delivered tight, reliable patterns, improving my shooting performance in all disciplines.
The chokes have held up remarkably well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, despite being exposed to various weather conditions. The finish remains intact, even after repeated cleaning and handling.
Maintenance is simple: a quick scrub with a brush and solvent after each use keeps them in good condition. I’ve experienced no issues with seizing or difficulty in removal, a testament to the quality of the machining. I feel more confident using these chokes than the original factory models.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA (Model 41003) are designed for use with 12-gauge shotguns. These chokes are constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, known for its strength and corrosion resistance. Each choke tube extends slightly beyond the end of the barrel, allowing for easy identification of the choke constriction without removing it.
The specific model I tested are standard, non-ported chokes, offering consistent performance without the added recoil reduction of ported designs. The chokes are available in a variety of constrictions, from Cylinder to Extra Full, allowing for a wide range of applications. The choke tubes are designed to be used with lead, steel, and other non-toxic shot, offering versatility for different hunting and shooting scenarios.
The precise manufacturing of Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA ensures a consistent pattern. They will allow users to optimize the spread of their shot for various distances and target sizes. This is important because consistent patterns translate to more hits and better overall shooting performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA perform exceptionally well, consistently delivering tight and reliable patterns. I’ve found them to be particularly effective for extending my range on longer shots, whether it’s breaking clays at the range or targeting waterfowl in the field. The consistency of the patterns has noticeably improved my shooting scores and hunting success.
The main strength of these chokes lies in their ability to consistently deliver the desired pattern. The improved patterns have translated directly into better hits on targets. One weakness is that they don’t have ported options for recoil reduction; however, this may not be a disadvantage to all shooters.
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA have exceeded my expectations. The consistent performance and durable construction have made them a valuable addition to my shotgunning gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA feature a simple and functional design. The extended design makes them easy to grip and install, while the smooth finish prevents fouling and facilitates easy cleaning. The chokes are lightweight, adding minimal weight to the shotgun.
The chokes are exceptionally user-friendly. The clearly marked constrictions and easy installation make them a breeze to use, even for novice shotgunners.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA are built to last. With proper care and maintenance, they should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep them in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA come with a basic choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal. No other accessories are included, as these are primarily standalone performance upgrades.
These chokes are designed to fit any shotgun that accepts Remington-style choke tubes. This makes them compatible with a wide range of popular shotgun brands and models, offering a significant degree of customization.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA
Pros
- Significantly improved shot patterns over factory chokes.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction.
- Easy to install and remove with included wrench.
- Versatile performance for sporting clays, hunting, and trap.
- Reasonably priced for the performance offered.
Cons
- No ported options for recoil reduction.
- Basic packaging; no carrying case included.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA are perfect for:
- Hunters looking to improve their patterns and extend their range on waterfowl and upland game.
- Sporting clays shooters seeking more consistent breaks and higher scores.
- Trap and skeet shooters who want to fine-tune their patterns for optimal performance.
Those who are extremely recoil sensitive may want to explore ported options from other manufacturers, although that comes at a higher price point. Someone who already has high-end aftermarket chokes may not see a huge benefit.
A choke tube case is a good addition to protect your investment. A high-quality choke tube wrench that is more durable than the included wrench is also an upgrade to consider.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA
In summary, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA are a well-made, high-performing upgrade for any 12-gauge shotgunner looking to improve their patterns and extend their range. The durable construction and consistent performance make them a worthwhile investment.
At a price of $49.99, these chokes offer excellent value for the money. The improved performance justifies the cost, especially for serious shooters and hunters.
I would definitely recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 GA to anyone looking for a reliable and effective choke tube upgrade. It is an investment that will improve your shooting and elevate your shotgunning experience. So, ditch those factory chokes and equip your shotgun with Carlson’s; you won’t regret it.