Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder is a seemingly simple accessory that can drastically change your shooting experience. It’s a cylinder choke designed specifically for SKB competition shotguns in 12 gauge, and made by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, a name synonymous with quality and precision. This choke promises to deliver consistent patterns for close-range shooting scenarios, especially in sporting clays.
I was seeking a choke that would provide a wide, even spread for targets encountered at closer distances in sporting clays. Often, tighter chokes result in missed opportunities on those close, fast-moving presentations. The promise of improved performance on these shots is what piqued my interest in the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder.
My first impression upon unboxing was that this choke looks incredibly well-made. The black finish is smooth and even, giving it a professional appearance. The weight feels substantial, suggesting the use of high-quality materials.
Compared to a modified choke I’ve used in the past, this Carlson’s cylinder choke has a noticeably wider exit diameter. I also considered a skeet choke from a different manufacturer, but decided on the Carlson’s due to their reputation for producing consistent patterns, as well as its construction from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, which offered more confidence in the choke’s durability. Initial handling left me feeling optimistic. This choke exuded quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder at my local sporting clays course. The weather was slightly overcast, but dry with minimal wind. I focused on stations that featured close-range teal, rabbit, and incomer presentations.
The choke performed admirably, producing consistently wide patterns. I saw a noticeable improvement in my hit percentage on the closer targets, especially on those fast-moving rabbits. There was no noticeable difference in recoil or gun handling compared to my usual modified choke.
The only minor issue was a bit of carbon buildup on the choke’s exterior after a few rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder continues to perform reliably. I haven’t experienced any issues with it loosening or developing rust. The black finish is also holding up very well.
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain its performance. The choke is relatively easy to clean with a standard choke tube wrench and some solvent. Compared to my old choke, I find the Carlson’s to deliver more consistent pattern densities, which translates to fewer frustrating misses on close-range targets. I am very happy with this product.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Carlson’s Choke Tubes.
- Color: Black.
- Fabric/Material: 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel. This high-strength stainless steel provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability, ensuring a long lifespan.
- Gauge: 12.
- Choke Tube System: SKB Competition Choke. This choke is specifically designed for SKB competition shotguns.
- Choke Type: Cylinder. This choke has no constriction, providing the widest possible pattern.
- Diameter: 0.735 in. This diameter matches the bore diameter, resulting in a pattern that spreads quickly.
- Gun Make: SKB.
- Quantity: 1.
- Additional Features: Non-Ported. Non-ported designs tend to be slightly quieter and easier to clean.
- Included Accessories: Choke Wrench. A choke wrench is included for easy installation and removal.
- Country of Origin: USA.
These specifications are important because they ensure compatibility with my SKB shotgun. The cylinder bore is essential for the intended close-range applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder excels at providing a wide and consistent shot pattern at close ranges. This is exactly what it’s designed to do.
Its strengths are its even pattern distribution and ease of installation. One area for potential improvement would be offering a ported version for those who desire reduced recoil. The product meets and exceeds expectations, delivering superior results on close-range targets.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction gives it a solid, durable feel. The finish is smooth and aesthetically pleasing.
The choke is user-friendly and requires no special tools for installation beyond the included choke wrench. There is no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The choke is made from durable materials and should last for years with proper care. Regular cleaning is necessary to prevent carbon buildup.
The simple design makes maintenance straightforward. A quick scrub with a brush and solvent is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder comes with a choke wrench. There are no other accessories included.
It is compatible with standard SKB choke tube accessories. It does not offer much in the way of customization other than selecting a different choke constriction. Carlson’s Choke Tubes offers a wide variety of choke constrictions for SKB shotguns.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder
Pros
- Provides exceptionally wide and even patterns at close range.
- Made from durable 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel.
- Easy to install and remove with the included choke wrench.
- Noticeably improves hit percentage on close-range sporting clay targets.
- Carlson’s Choke Tubes has a reputation for consistent quality.
Cons
- Not ideal for long-range shooting.
- The non-ported design may not be preferred by shooters seeking recoil reduction.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder is perfect for sporting clay shooters. It’s also useful for skeet shooters. It would also be a great choke for upland bird hunters who frequently encounter close-flushing birds.
This choke isn’t for shooters who primarily engage targets at longer distances. Those shooters would want a tighter choke.
A must-have accessory is a good quality choke tube case to protect the choke when not in use.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder is a well-made choke that delivers on its promise of providing wide, consistent patterns for close-range shooting. Its durable construction, ease of use, and noticeable performance improvements make it a worthwhile investment for sporting clays and skeet shooters.
The price is justified considering the quality of materials and the resulting performance gains. Yes, I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to improve their close-range shooting capabilities.
If you are tired of missing those easy close-range targets, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder might be exactly what you need. Give it a shot and see the difference it can make in your scores!