Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube is a specialized shotgun choke designed to optimize patterns for turkey hunting with Mossberg 835 and UltraMag shotguns. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this choke promises extra-tight patterns, especially when using copper-plated and buffered lead turkey loads. This choke tube’s design and intended use caught my attention, as I’ve been consistently seeking to tighten my patterns with my Mossberg 835 for more ethical and successful turkey hunts.
My current setup uses a generic, multi-purpose choke that offers decent performance, but lacks the specialized pattern density needed for long-range shots or inconsistent spread. This often results in misses or, worse, poorly hit birds. The promise of improved pattern density and consistent performance drew me to explore the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube.
Upon unboxing, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube presented a solid and well-machined appearance. The matte blue finish looked durable and functional, and the 1-inch extension seemed reasonable for a specialized turkey choke. The steel felt substantial and well crafted.
Compared to a standard flush-mounted choke, this extended choke appeared more robust, promising improved performance. Considering the Trulock Precision Hunter choke tube for my hunting needs, as well as the pattern master choke tube, I ultimately opted for the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube due to its specific compatibility with my Mossberg 835 and its proven reputation for consistent patterns with lead turkey loads. It also seemed to offer a better balance of performance and cost compared to more premium chokes.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the build quality seemed excellent, the true test would be how it performed in the field. I hoped that the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube would indeed deliver the tighter, more consistent patterns I was seeking.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube took place at a local shooting range, using a variety of turkey loads. I set up targets at 20, 30, and 40 yards to evaluate pattern density and consistency. The weather was clear and calm, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The choke tube was simple to install, and I immediately noticed a difference in the sound of the shot – a sharper, more focused report. At 20 yards, the pattern was incredibly tight, almost resembling a single, large hole. Stepping back to 30 yards, the pattern remained dense, with a very consistent distribution of pellets within a 10-inch circle.
At 40 yards, the pattern opened slightly, but still maintained sufficient density for an effective kill shot on a turkey. I experienced no issues with recoil or reliability during the initial testing. After a few rounds, I did notice the choke needed a little cleaning from powder buildup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube for an entire turkey season, spanning several weeks of hunting in various conditions, I can confidently assess its long-term performance. The choke held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or corrosion despite exposure to rain, mud, and temperature fluctuations. Cleaning was straightforward, requiring only a standard choke tube wrench and solvent.
Compared to my previous experiences with generic chokes, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube offered a noticeable improvement in pattern consistency and effective range. I experienced fewer wounded birds and more clean kills, resulting in more successful hunts. The choke exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube
Specifications
- The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube is constructed from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel to withstand the pressures of heavy turkey loads. This material choice ensures durability and resistance to corrosion.
- The choke is designed for 12-gauge shotguns, specifically the Mossberg 835 and UltraMag models. This compatibility ensures a proper fit and optimal performance within these specific shotgun platforms.
- The choke tube is designated as a Turkey choke, indicating its specialized purpose for delivering dense patterns at extended ranges. This specialization makes it ideal for turkey hunting.
- It features a .675 constriction, which further tightens the shot pattern for increased effective range. This constriction is optimal for copper plated and buffered lead shotshells.
- The choke extends approximately 1 inch from the end of the barrel, providing added length for pattern development. This extension contributes to improved pattern consistency.
- The Carlson’s Choke Tubes features a matte blue finish, offering a non-reflective surface that reduces glare and provides corrosion resistance. This matte finish also blends well with most shotgun finishes.
- It features a 1.050″ parallel section, further refining the shot pattern for maximum density and consistency at longer ranges. This feature optimizes shot placement.
- This Carlson’s Choke Tubes choke is non-ported, meaning it lacks external vents or openings. Non-ported chokes can reduce noise and minimize gas leakage.
These specifications combine to create a choke tube that is purpose-built for turkey hunting, offering durability, consistent patterns, and increased effective range. The selection of materials and design elements contribute to its overall performance and user experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube excels in its primary function: delivering incredibly tight and consistent patterns for turkey hunting. The choke significantly improves the effective range of my Mossberg 835, allowing for ethical shots at distances that were previously marginal. Shot patterns are consistent and predictable.
The primary strength of this choke is its ability to concentrate a high percentage of pellets within a vital area at extended ranges, maximizing the chances of a clean kill. One potential weakness is that the extremely tight pattern at close range (under 20 yards) could result in a missed shot if not aimed precisely.
This choke exceeds my expectations for a dedicated turkey choke, providing a noticeable improvement over generic options. I would consider this a must-have choke for turkey hunters using Mossberg 835 shotguns.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube features a robust and well-machined design. The use of 17-4 stainless steel provides excellent durability and corrosion resistance, ensuring a long service life. The additional length and solid construction add weight to the muzzle.
Installation is straightforward, requiring only a standard choke tube wrench. The choke tube is easy to install and remove. There is no real learning curve associated with using the choke tube.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube is built to withstand the rigors of extensive use in the field. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion, and the robust design can handle the pressures of heavy turkey loads. The product is very durable.
Maintaining the choke is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent. Regular maintenance will ensure optimal performance and longevity. The choke is easy to clean and maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube does not include any accessories beyond the choke tube itself. There are no specific customization options directly associated with the choke.
This choke is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Mossberg 835 shotguns. While the choke itself cannot be customized, the overall shotgun setup can be modified with various optics, slings, and shell carriers to suit individual preferences. This Carlson’s Choke Tubes choke is compatible with a range of accessories.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: Delivers incredibly tight patterns at extended ranges, maximizing the chance of clean kills on turkeys.
- Improved Effective Range: Extends the effective range of your shotgun, allowing for ethical shots at distances that were previously marginal.
- Durable Construction: Made from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel for long-lasting performance and corrosion resistance.
- Easy Installation: Simple to install and remove with a standard choke tube wrench.
- Noticeable Performance Improvement: Provides a significant upgrade over generic choke tubes, resulting in more successful hunts.
Cons
- Tight Pattern at Close Range: The extremely tight pattern at close range (under 20 yards) can be unforgiving, requiring precise aiming to avoid missing the target.
- Not for Steel Shot: Specifically designed for copper-plated and buffered lead turkey loads, and should not be used with steel shot.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube is perfect for dedicated turkey hunters who own a Mossberg 835 or UltraMag shotgun and primarily use copper-plated or buffered lead turkey loads. This choke is ideal for those seeking to improve their pattern density and extend their effective range for more ethical and successful hunts. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes choke is a great option.
Hunters who primarily use steel shot or those who prefer a more versatile choke for various game types should skip this product. Also, hunters who frequently hunt turkeys at very close ranges (under 20 yards) may find the extremely tight pattern to be a disadvantage.
A quality red dot sight can further enhance the accuracy and precision of the choke, especially at longer ranges. A comfortable sling can improve the overall carrying experience during long hunts.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube is a specialized tool that excels in its intended purpose: delivering devastatingly tight patterns for turkey hunting with Mossberg 835 shotguns. The choke’s durable construction, consistent performance, and noticeable improvement over generic options make it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters. It has great value.
The price of $52.49 is justified given the improved performance and increased success rate in the field. For dedicated turkey hunters, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube offers a significant advantage.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke to any Mossberg 835 owner looking to optimize their shotgun for turkey hunting. Upgrade your turkey hunting setup with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Moss Choke Tube and experience the difference!