Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full is designed for shooters who demand consistent, tight patterns from their 20-gauge Beretta Optima HP shotguns. Carlson’s Choke Tubes, a reputable manufacturer known for its quality choke tubes, built this specifically for sporting clays and hunting applications where longer shots are common. Its full choke designation promises dense patterns at extended ranges, making it a worthy addition to any serious shotgunner’s kit.
I needed a choke tube that would reliably deliver tight patterns at 40+ yards for late-season pheasant hunting and the occasional sporting clay competition. I was tired of crippling birds and losing points because my patterns were too open with the factory-supplied modified choke. I wanted a choke that would give me confidence in those longer shots, without sacrificing pattern quality.
My first impression upon receiving the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full was its robust construction. The black finish is smooth and even, giving it a professional appearance and promising some level of corrosion resistance. The weight felt appropriate, not too light to suggest cheap materials, nor too heavy to affect the shotgun’s balance.
I considered Briley and Patternmaster chokes, but ultimately chose Carlson’s due to their positive reputation and more attractive price point. While both Briley and Patternmaster are known for their quality, Carlson’s offered a similar level of performance at a more accessible price. I felt like it was a good balance of performance and value.
Initially, I was excited to try it out on the range and see how much tighter my patterns could become. I was hoping it would live up to the “Full” designation, and tighten up my patterns considerably. I was also a little apprehensive, wondering if the patterns would be too tight at closer ranges.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full at my local shooting range, patterning it at 30 and 40 yards with various 20-gauge loads. I used a large piece of cardboard to easily assess the pattern density and pellet distribution.
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes performed exceptionally well, even in slightly breezy conditions. The patterns were noticeably tighter compared to my modified choke, especially at 40 yards, with consistent pellet distribution across the target. I noticed a marked improvement in the consistency of my patterns, even with different brands of ammunition.
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes was easy to install using the included choke wrench and required no special tools or modifications. After a few shots, it loosened up a bit, but after tightening it again, it held in place securely. I appreciated the ease of installation, as some choke tubes can be difficult to properly seat.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full has proven to be remarkably durable. The black finish shows no signs of chipping or wear, even after repeated use and cleaning.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in excellent condition. I regularly clean it after each shooting session and it has held up remarkably well. It’s a breeze to maintain, which is important for longevity.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlson’s significantly outperforms them in terms of pattern consistency and range. I’ve also found that this choke is less prone to plastic wad buildup, which makes cleaning even easier. It’s a clear upgrade in performance and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full is designed for 20-gauge Beretta Optima HP shotguns. It is constructed from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, ensuring strength and corrosion resistance.
The Full choke designation results in a diameter of 0.595 inches, creating a tight pattern suitable for longer-range shots. It is a non-ported design, which means there are no holes or vents to reduce recoil or muzzle jump.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full excels at delivering consistent and dense patterns at distances beyond 30 yards. Its full choke constriction ensures that a higher percentage of pellets stay within a smaller area at longer ranges.
Its strength lies in its ability to extend the effective range of a 20-gauge shotgun, making it ideal for sporting clays and hunting scenarios where longer shots are frequent. The tight patterns ensure maximum impact on the target, whether it’s a clay pigeon or a game bird. The only potential drawback is that patterns may be too tight for close-range situations, where a more open choke would be more forgiving.
It consistently meets and exceeds my expectations, delivering reliable and predictable patterns with various loads. I have consistently found it to pattern well with a variety of ammunition. It has significantly improved my hit percentage on longer shots.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full features a simple, yet effective design. The black finish provides a sleek appearance and offers some resistance to corrosion.
It’s easy to install and remove using the provided choke wrench, with no complicated procedures or tools required. The simple design makes it easy to clean and maintain. The choke tube installs flush with the barrel, giving it a clean look.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to harsh conditions. It should last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
Maintenance involves simply cleaning the choke tube after each use to remove any residue or buildup. The stainless steel construction makes it resistant to corrosion, further extending its lifespan. It’s designed for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full includes a choke wrench for easy installation and removal. There are no specific customization options for the choke tube itself, as it is a fixed constriction design.
It’s compatible with any 20-gauge Beretta Optima HP shotgun and can be used with a wide range of ammunition brands and shot sizes. I’ve also found that it works well with aftermarket recoil reducers and other barrel accessories. The choke is widely compatible.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full
Pros
- Consistent and dense patterns at longer ranges improve hit percentage.
- Durable 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and remove with the included choke wrench.
- Compatible with all 20-gauge Beretta Optima HP shotguns.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value for money.
Cons
- Patterns may be too tight for close-range shooting scenarios.
- Non-ported design does not reduce recoil or muzzle jump.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full is perfect for sporting clay shooters and hunters who frequently encounter longer shots. It’s ideal for those who prioritize consistent and dense patterns at extended ranges, such as pheasant hunters or those shooting trap or skeet at longer distances.
This product might not be suitable for those who primarily hunt in dense cover where shots are typically close-range, or for beginners who are still learning the fundamentals of shotgun shooting. These users may benefit more from a more open choke tube.
A quality shotgun case and a good cleaning kit are must-have accessories to protect and maintain both the choke tube and the shotgun itself. Some users may also benefit from using different types of ammunition to fine-tune their patterns for specific shooting scenarios.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Full is an excellent choke tube that delivers on its promise of tight, consistent patterns at longer ranges. It’s durable, easy to use, and offers excellent value for money.
The price is definitely justified given the improved performance and durability compared to factory chokes. It’s a relatively small investment that can make a significant difference in shooting performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube to anyone looking to improve their long-range accuracy with a 20-gauge Beretta Optima HP shotgun. Whether you’re a competitive shooter or a seasoned hunter, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes will give you the edge you need to consistently hit your targets. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!