Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder
The world of shotgun chokes can be a bewildering place, filled with technical jargon and subtle differences that can drastically impact your shot pattern. That’s why I was intrigued by the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder. This isn’t just another choke tube; it’s a precision-engineered tool designed to enhance your sporting clays performance, backed by the reputable Carlson’s Choke Tubes.
I’ve spent over a decade tinkering with shotguns, tweaking loads, and swapping chokes in pursuit of that perfect break on the sporting clays course. My quest led me to explore various aftermarket chokes, seeking that sweet spot between pattern density and effective range for the challenging targets presented.
The choke arrived in a simple, no-nonsense package. My initial impression was positive; the stainless steel construction felt robust and well-machined. The knurled end was a thoughtful touch, promising easy installation and removal even with gloved hands.
Compared to my factory Ruger flush-mount chokes, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder appeared noticeably longer. I was hoping that this longer parallel section would provide the tighter, more consistent patterns Carlson’s Choke Tubes claims. I chose this choke over a similar Briley choke due to Carlson’s lifetime warranty and reputation for durability in harsh conditions.
I was cautiously optimistic. The build quality seemed excellent, and the features hinted at improved performance. My excitement grew as I envisioned crushing clays with more consistency and confidence.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder was at my local sporting clays range on a breezy Saturday morning. I was specifically targeting the mid-range stations presenting crossing and quartering away targets.
The weather was typical for early spring: a mix of sunshine and gusty winds. The improved cylinder choke is typically used for closer shots. I wanted to test if I could get a more even pattern at the longer end of the spectrum for an improved cylinder choke. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder performed admirably, consistently breaking clays at distances where my factory choke struggled.
Installation was a breeze, thanks to the knurled end. I didn’t even need a choke wrench. There were no issues with extraction or insertion.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder continues to impress. It has become my go-to choke for most sporting clays courses.
There are no signs of wear and tear despite frequent use and cleaning. The stainless steel finish resists corrosion and cleans up easily with a standard choke tube cleaner. Compared to my previous choke experiences, the Carlson’s offers a noticeable improvement in pattern consistency and overall performance. It’s a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Carlson’s Choke Tubes
- Color: Stainless
- Fabric/Material: 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel
- Gauge: 12
- Choke Tube System: Ruger Choke
- Choke Type: Improved Cylinder
- Diameter: 0.73 in
- Gun Make: Ruger
- Quantity: 1
- Additional Features: Non-Ported
- Included Accessories: Choke Wrench
- Country of Origin: USA
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder is constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, which ensures exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. The 0.73-inch diameter provides an improved cylinder constriction, offering a balance between pattern density and spread, ideal for close to mid-range targets. Made in the USA, and backing their choke tubes with a lifetime warranty is a true testament to the Carlson’s Choke Tubes quality and commitment to their products.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder delivers precisely what it promises: tighter, denser patterns than a standard flush-mount improved cylinder choke. This translates to more consistent breaks on the sporting clays course, especially at the outer edges of the improved cylinder’s effective range.
Its strengths lie in its consistent patterns and ease of use. I’d like to see a wider range of constrictions available within the “Sporting Clays” line. It definitely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The stainless steel construction feels solid and well-made. The knurled end provides a secure grip for easy installation and removal, even with wet or gloved hands. The choke tube is easy to thread into the barrel.
The design is simple and functional, requiring no special tools or skills to install or use. There is no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction ensures excellent durability and longevity. With proper cleaning and maintenance, this choke tube should last for years. The choke tube cleans up very easily and is also very resistant to rust and corrosion.
Maintenance is simple: clean it regularly with a choke tube cleaner and apply a light coat of gun oil to prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder comes with a choke wrench. No other accessories are necessary for its basic function. The choke is specifically designed for Ruger 12ga shotguns with interchangeable chokes.
It is compatible with most standard choke wrenches. There are no modifications needed to install or use the choke tube.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder
Pros
- Tighter, denser patterns than standard improved cylinder chokes for more consistent breaks.
- Durable 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction for long-lasting performance.
- Knurled end for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands.
- Lifetime warranty from Carlson’s Choke Tubes provides peace of mind.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- May not be ideal for very close-range targets where a wider pattern is preferred.
- Only available in improved cylinder constriction within the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Sporting Clay line.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder?
Perfect for sporting clays enthusiasts who want to improve their scores with more consistent patterns. It is also ideal for hunters who use an improved cylinder choke for upland game and want slightly tighter patterns.
Those who primarily shoot skeet or very close-range targets should skip this product, as a more open choke (e.g., skeet or cylinder) would be more suitable. A quality choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal, although the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder can be installed and removed by hand.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Ruger 12ga Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder is a well-made, high-performing choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter, denser patterns. The price is justified by the improved performance, durable construction, and Carlson’s lifetime warranty.
I would personally recommend this choke tube to any sporting clays shooter or hunter looking for a reliable and effective improved cylinder choke. Upgrade your Ruger 12ga today and experience the difference a quality choke tube can make!