Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet are designed to optimize shot patterns for skeet shooting with 20-gauge Browning shotguns that use the Invector DS choke system. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, these chokes promise improved consistency and tighter groupings at close ranges, making them a potential game-changer for both seasoned competitors and recreational shooters. This review delves into my experience with these chokes, examining their build quality, performance, and overall value.
For years, I’ve struggled with inconsistent patterns at my local skeet range, often leading to frustrating scores. I needed a choke that would provide reliable and predictable spread, and I had heard good things about Carlson’s Choke Tubes and their ability to deliver consistent performance. The promise of tighter groupings and improved clay target breaks was a significant draw.
Upon receiving the choke, I was immediately impressed by the heft and solid feel of the stainless steel. The knurled ends were a nice touch, suggesting ease of installation and removal, and the laser-etched constriction marking was clear and easily readable. Compared to the factory chokes included with my Browning Citori, the Carlson’s choke felt significantly more robust and precisely made. My first impression was positive and gave me the confidence I needed to head to the range and put it to the test.
My excitement grew quickly as I anticipated seeing a tighter pattern that should improve my success rates.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet at my local shooting range on a crisp autumn morning. The weather was clear, with a slight breeze, making it ideal for skeet shooting. The range offers both standard skeet and sporting clay layouts, and I focused on the skeet field to evaluate the choke’s effectiveness at the typical close-range targets found in skeet.
The choke performed admirably in the conditions I was shooting in, delivering consistent and dense patterns at the typical skeet distances. I noticed significantly fewer “chipped” targets and more solid breaks. The ease of installation and removal, thanks to the knurled ends, was also a welcome feature, allowing for quick changes when needed. After the first round of testing, I was thoroughly impressed with the initial results that I was seeing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and multiple range sessions, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of wear or corrosion, and the choke remains easy to clean and maintain. I have been diligent about cleaning the choke after each range session, and the stainless steel finish has held up beautifully.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlson’s choke offers a noticeable improvement in pattern consistency. My scores have consistently improved, and I feel more confident in my ability to break targets cleanly. The Carlson’s choke is a definite upgrade that delivers on its promise of improved skeet performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet is precision machined from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel, ensuring both durability and resistance to corrosion. It is specifically designed for 20-gauge Browning shotguns that utilize the Invector DS (Double Seal) choke system. The choke has a diameter of 0.625 inches and is marked with “Skeet” for easy identification.
The use of 17-4 stainless steel guarantees a long lifespan, even with frequent use and exposure to the elements. The specific skeet constriction provides the optimal balance between pattern density and spread for close-range skeet targets. The 25% larger parallel section is intended to produce more consistent patterns than traditional choke tubes.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet excels at its primary job, which is to deliver consistent and effective patterns for skeet shooting. I noticed a marked improvement in my ability to break targets cleanly and consistently. The shot patterns are dense and evenly distributed, minimizing the chances of chipping targets and maximizing the likelihood of complete breaks.
One potential weakness is that the skeet constriction is highly specialized, making it less versatile for other shooting disciplines such as hunting or sporting clays at longer distances. However, for skeet, it performs exceptionally well. It met my expectations and gave me the performance I was looking for.
Design & Ergonomics
The choke is well-designed and built from high-quality materials. The stainless steel construction gives it a solid and durable feel. The knurled ends make installation and removal easy.
There is no learning curve involved, as it functions like any other choke tube. The laser-etched markings are clear and easy to read.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures that the choke is built to last. With proper care and cleaning, it should provide many years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a bore brush and solvent.
The choke’s resistance to corrosion is a significant advantage, especially for those who shoot in humid or wet environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The choke comes with a choke wrench for easy installation and removal. There are no specific customization options available for this particular choke. However, it is compatible with any Browning shotgun that uses the Invector DS choke system.
While there are no direct accessories, the choke can be paired with different brands and types of shotgun shells to fine-tune the pattern and performance to individual preferences.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay SkeetPros
- Delivers consistently dense and evenly distributed shot patterns.
- Knurled ends allow for easy installation and removal.
- Precision machined from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
- 25% larger parallel section for more consistent patterns.
- Laser-etched constriction marking for easy identification.
Cons
- Skeet constriction is highly specialized and not ideal for other shooting disciplines.
- May require occasional cleaning and maintenance to prevent fouling.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet?
Pros
- Delivers consistently dense and evenly distributed shot patterns.
- Knurled ends allow for easy installation and removal.
- Precision machined from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
- 25% larger parallel section for more consistent patterns.
- Laser-etched constriction marking for easy identification.
Cons
- Skeet constriction is highly specialized and not ideal for other shooting disciplines.
- May require occasional cleaning and maintenance to prevent fouling.
Perfect for: Skeet shooters using a 20-gauge Browning shotgun with the Invector DS choke system. This choke is ideal for competitive shooters looking to improve their scores and casual shooters who want more consistent and predictable patterns.
Who should skip this product? Hunters or sporting clay shooters who need a more versatile choke for longer distances or different types of targets. Those who do not own a 20-gauge Browning shotgun with the Invector DS system should also avoid this product.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality choke tube case to protect the choke when not in use. Different brands or types of shotgun shells to fine-tune the pattern and performance.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet is a well-made and effective choke that delivers on its promise of improved skeet performance. The precision machining, durable stainless steel construction, and thoughtful design features make it a worthwhile investment for any serious skeet shooter using a compatible Browning shotgun. For skeet enthusiasts, the enhanced pattern consistency and ease of use are well worth the price.
The price of $55.49 is justified by the quality of the materials and the noticeable improvement in performance. It’s a relatively small investment that can make a significant difference in your scores and overall shooting experience. The cost makes sense if you take the investment of time, ammunition, and range fees into consideration.
I would highly recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector DS 20ga Sporting Clay Skeet to anyone looking to upgrade their skeet shooting performance. Purchase this choke and experience the difference in your scores today!
