Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder promises to enhance your shotgun’s performance, particularly in tactical applications. It’s a simple concept: a choke tube that also acts as a muzzle brake to reduce recoil. As someone who’s spent years tweaking shotgun setups for various scenarios, from waterfowl hunting to tactical training, this product piqued my interest.
I was looking for a way to improve my Benelli’s handling during rapid-fire drills. Recoil mitigation is crucial for maintaining accuracy and follow-up shot speed. The package arrived promptly, and my initial impression was that it was well-made. Compared to standard choke tubes, the Carlson’s offering appeared robust and ready for action.
Unboxing revealed a solid, black cylinder of steel. Its weight gave it a quality feel, suggesting durable construction capable of withstanding repeated use. Initial impressions were positive. I had considered similar products from Briley and Trulock, but chose the Carlson’s for its aggressive brake design and reputation for value. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder was at my local outdoor shooting range. I primarily use this range for patterning shotguns and practicing defensive shooting drills. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and slightly breezy.
I put the Carlson’s choke to work with a variety of loads, from light target loads to heavier buckshot and slug rounds. The muzzle brake did seem to make a difference. There was a noticeable reduction in muzzle climb, especially with the heavier loads.
Installation was straightforward. It threaded in just like any other Benelli Crio Plus choke tube. No special tools or modifications were necessary. I did experience a slight increase in muzzle blast. This was expected due to the brake diverting gases.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and hundreds of rounds downrange, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder continues to perform reliably. There are no signs of cracking or deformation. It handles the punishment of repeated firing without issue.
The finish has held up well, showing only minor scuffs from being removed and reinstalled. Cleaning is simple. A quick scrub with a brush and solvent keeps it in good working order. Compared to a standard cylinder choke, the added benefit of recoil reduction is a definite plus.
My previous experiences with other muzzle brakes on rifles had prepared me for the increased noise. However, the relatively simple design and robust construction of the Carlson’s brake have exceeded my expectations in terms of durability. It’s a solid piece of kit that delivers as advertised.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder is designed specifically for Benelli shotguns utilizing the Crio Plus choke system. It features a cylinder bore, meaning there is no constriction at the muzzle. This is ideal for close-quarters engagements and tactical scenarios where a wide spread is desired.
The choke is constructed from high-quality steel and finished in a durable black coating. This adds to its resistance to corrosion and wear. Being made in the USA, the quality control is something to note. It speaks of a commitment to standards.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder is to reduce recoil and muzzle climb. It accomplishes this by venting gases upward and to the sides, counteracting the upward force generated during firing. In practical terms, this makes follow-up shots faster and more accurate.
The cylinder bore ensures a wide, even pattern at close range. It’s perfect for breaching doors or engaging multiple targets quickly. However, it’s not suitable for hunting at longer ranges. This is due to the lack of constriction hindering shot grouping. The brake itself performs admirably, reducing felt recoil by a noticeable margin.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder features a simple, functional design. The external brake ports are cleanly machined. The internal threading is precise. The added length extends past the barrel, giving it a more aggressive look.
The weight is noticeable but not excessive. It doesn’t significantly alter the balance of the shotgun. Installation is straightforward. It threads in using a standard choke tube wrench. There’s no complex fitting or gunsmithing required.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction and durable finish of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder suggest it’s built to last. After extended use, I’ve seen no signs of premature wear or damage. Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining optimal performance.
Solvent and a nylon brush are all that’s needed to remove powder residue and fouling. The brake’s simple design also means there are no small parts to lose or break. With proper care, this choke tube should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder is fairly straightforward in function, so dedicated accessories are not applicable. However, it is compatible with any Benelli shotgun that accepts Crio Plus choke tubes. This allows for the use of various aftermarket choke wrenches.
Since it’s a cylinder bore, pairing it with different shot shells and loads is where you’ll find customization. Experiment with different buckshot and slug brands to find what patterns best in your gun. Adding a weapon light to the shotgun will enhance its usability in low-light scenarios.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder
Pros
- Noticeable reduction in recoil and muzzle climb, particularly with heavy loads, improving follow-up shots.
- Cylinder bore provides a wide, even pattern at close range, ideal for tactical applications and home defense.
- Durable steel construction with a black finish ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring no special tools or gunsmithing knowledge.
- Made in the USA reflects a commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Cons
- Increased muzzle blast may be uncomfortable for some shooters, requiring the use of proper hearing protection.
- Cylinder bore is not suitable for hunting at longer ranges, limiting its versatility compared to other choke constrictions.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder is perfect for tactical shooters. It’s also ideal for home defense enthusiasts and anyone looking to improve their Benelli shotgun’s handling in close-quarters scenarios. It is also suitable for individuals sensitive to recoil. The brake greatly reduces felt recoil.
This product is not ideal for hunters who primarily engage targets at longer distances. Those who require a tighter shot pattern for ethical hunting should skip it. It would be best to purchase tighter chokes for distance shooting.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality hearing protection, as the muzzle blast is amplified. Experiment with different buckshot loads to find the optimal pattern for your specific needs. A quality weapon light is highly recommended for home defense or tactical applications.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Cylinder is a worthwhile upgrade for Benelli owners seeking enhanced control and faster follow-up shots in tactical scenarios. Its durable construction, easy installation, and noticeable recoil reduction make it a solid performer. The limited range due to the cylinder bore is its main drawback.
At around $130, the price is justified for the benefits it provides, especially when compared to higher-priced alternatives. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to improve their Benelli’s handling in close-quarters situations. If you’re seeking more control and faster follow-up shots, give the Carlson’s Tactical Muzzle Brake a try. You won’t be disappointed.