Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665
Turkey hunting isn’t just a pastime; it’s a ritual, a test of patience, and a celebration of the outdoors. For years, I’ve chased gobblers through the woods, and the one thing I’ve learned is that your setup can make or break the hunt. That’s why I was particularly interested in the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665, a choke tube promising tighter patterns and longer range.
I needed to solve a pattern consistency issue with my Ruger 12 gauge during longer shots. My factory choke was leaving gaps at 40 yards, and that’s unacceptable when you’re trying for a clean, ethical kill. Upon receiving the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665, I was immediately struck by its solid construction and sleek black finish. It felt substantial and well-made, suggesting a commitment to quality.
Compared to the factory-supplied Ruger choke, the Carlson’s tube felt significantly more robust. I also considered a Briley choke and a Patternmaster Code Black, but Carlson’s reputation for value and consistent performance, combined with the specific .665 constriction, swayed my decision. My first impression was excitement mixed with anticipation; I was eager to see if it could deliver on its promise of improved patterns.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665 was at my local shooting range, patterning it with various turkey loads. I tested it in fairly dry conditions with a slight breeze. The installation was seamless, and I immediately appreciated the extended design, making it easy to swap out without tools after the initial install.
The patterns were noticeably tighter compared to my factory choke, especially at 40 yards. There were no major surprises, although I did find that it patterned best with Winchester Long Beard XR loads. This choke required very little getting used to; I simply screwed it in and started shooting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a full turkey season, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to mud and rain during hunts. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent keeps it in top condition.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlson’s tube is a clear winner in terms of pattern density and consistency. It’s provided me with increased confidence when taking those longer shots. I’ve taken two birds this season using this choke, both ethical and clean kills at distances exceeding 40 yards.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665
Specifications
- The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665 is manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes. It’s finished in a non-reflective Black.
- It is constructed from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, ensuring strength and corrosion resistance. This is a key factor in its durability.
- This choke is designed for 12 gauge shotguns with a Ruger Choke system. Its compatibility with Ruger shotguns makes it a perfect fit.
- It is a Turkey choke type, with a diameter of 0.665 inches. This constriction is optimized for tight turkey patterns.
- Each purchase includes one choke tube and a choke wrench. Having a dedicated wrench is beneficial.
- The choke is non-ported and made in the USA. Its Non-Ported design ensures optimal performance, and its Made in USA origin speaks to quality.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665 performs exceptionally well, delivering tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges. Its accuracy is a significant improvement over factory chokes, providing confidence in the field. The primary strength lies in its ability to maintain a dense pattern out to 50 yards, a crucial factor for ethical turkey hunting.
One area for potential improvement would be offering a knurled extension for even easier hand installation and removal. The choke meets and exceeds expectations, turning my Ruger into a more effective turkey gun. Its reliable patterns give me the confidence to take longer shots when necessary, increasing my chances of success.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665 features a durable build quality using high-grade stainless steel. Its weight is negligible, adding no noticeable difference to the shotgun’s balance. The extended design allows for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands.
It is incredibly user-friendly, with no learning curve required for installation or use. The sleek black finish adds a touch of class to any shotgun.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665, crafted from heat-treated stainless steel, is built to last for years. Routine cleaning and light oiling are all that’s required.
The simplicity of the design makes repairs unlikely, but replacement is straightforward should the need arise. Its robust construction ensures long-term reliability under harsh conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665 comes with a choke wrench. There are no additional accessories included, but its compatibility with Ruger 12 gauge shotguns makes it universally adaptable.
While there are no specific customization options for the choke itself, it integrates seamlessly with aftermarket sights and other shotgun accessories. It’s compatible with most turkey-specific shotgun loads from various manufacturers. It’s a straightforward, no-frills choke designed for maximum performance.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: Delivers consistently tight patterns at extended ranges, increasing your effective range.
- Durable Construction: Made from heat-treated stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting performance even in harsh conditions.
- Easy Installation: The extended design allows for simple hand installation and removal, saving time in the field.
- Improved Confidence: Provides increased confidence in taking ethical shots at longer distances.
- Value for Money: Offers premium performance at a competitive price point, making it an accessible upgrade.
Cons
- No knurling on the extension for grip. This makes adjustments slightly more challenging with wet or gloved hands.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665?
Perfect for: Hunters seeking to improve their Ruger 12 gauge’s turkey hunting performance, those looking for tighter patterns at longer ranges, and anyone wanting a durable and reliable choke tube.
Who should skip this product? Those who primarily hunt turkeys at very close range (under 20 yards) might not fully appreciate the benefits of the tighter pattern. Also, if you own a shotgun that isn’t a Ruger 12 gauge, this choke won’t fit.
Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality turkey loads like Winchester Long Beard XR or Federal Premium TSS will maximize the choke’s effectiveness.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665 is a worthwhile investment for any serious turkey hunter using a Ruger 12 gauge. The price is absolutely justified considering the increased pattern density and overall performance boost it provides.
I would absolutely recommend this choke to anyone looking to improve their shotgun’s effectiveness in the turkey woods. It’s a simple, reliable, and affordable upgrade that can make a significant difference in your success. Upgrade your Ruger and experience tighter patterns and longer range with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Extended Turkey .665 – you won’t regret it!