Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 is a specialized choke tube designed to maximize the effectiveness of a 20-gauge shotgun for turkey hunting. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this extended choke aims to deliver tighter, denser patterns at longer ranges, giving hunters a crucial advantage in the field. It’s a tool built for precision and lethality, promising to turn a good turkey gun into a great one.
I was perpetually frustrated with the inconsistent patterns I was getting from my factory choke tube, especially when using premium turkey loads. I needed something that would consistently put a higher percentage of pellets in the kill zone at distances beyond 30 yards, which led me to explore aftermarket turkey chokes.
Upon unboxing the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575, I was immediately struck by its solid construction and clean finish. The black oxide coating gave it a professional look, and the extended design provided a convenient gripping surface for easy installation and removal. It felt noticeably heavier and more robust than my factory choke tube, inspiring confidence in its durability.
I considered the Briley X2 and the Patternmaster Code Black Turkey chokes, but the Carlson’s Choke Tubes offered a compelling combination of performance and price. The Briley, while renowned for quality, was significantly more expensive, and the Patternmaster’s unique constriction design had mixed reviews regarding pattern consistency with certain loads. I picked the Carlson’s because I wanted a reliable, consistent performer without breaking the bank.
My first impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism. I was eager to see if it lived up to the claims of tighter patterns, but I also knew that choke tube performance is heavily dependent on the specific ammunition used. Only range testing would reveal its true potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 at my local shooting range, focusing on pattern density at 30 and 40 yards. I mounted it on my Mossberg 500 20-gauge, a reliable workhorse, and patterned it with a variety of turkey loads, including Winchester Long Beard XR, Federal Premium TSS, and Hevi-Shot Magnum Blend. The weather was mild and sunny, providing ideal testing conditions.
The Carlson’s choke performed exceptionally well, consistently producing denser and more uniform patterns compared to my factory modified choke. At 30 yards, the Winchester Long Beard XR delivered a pattern that would reliably put 20+ pellets in a 10-inch circle, and even at 40 yards, it still maintained a lethal pattern. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 performed well with each of the loads, but the Winchester Long Beard XR was the clear winner.
Installation was straightforward, requiring only a choke tube wrench. However, I noticed that the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 extended approximately 1 inch beyond the end of the barrel, which slightly altered the shotgun’s balance. It was not a deal-breaker but something to be aware of.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season of use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. I’ve taken it out in various weather conditions, from drizzly mornings to dry, dusty afternoons, and it has consistently delivered tight patterns. I’ve harvested two toms with it, both at distances exceeding 35 yards.
The choke tube shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to regular cleaning and handling. The black oxide finish has held up well, resisting scratches and corrosion. After each hunt, I clean the choke tube with bore solvent and a nylon brush, and it still looks like new.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory choke tubes, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 is a significant upgrade. It has instilled confidence in my shotgun’s ability to deliver lethal patterns at extended ranges, which has translated into more successful hunts. The improved pattern density has minimized the risk of wounding birds, ensuring ethical and effective kills.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its exceptional performance. It’s designed for 20-gauge shotguns with the Tru-Choke system. The constriction diameter is .575 inches, optimized for tight turkey patterns.
The choke tube is constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion. It features a black finish for added protection and a sleek appearance. The extended design allows for easy installation and removal with a choke tube wrench. It is also non-ported which means there are no holes or slits in the choke tube.
These specifications are critical for achieving the desired results in turkey hunting. The .575 constriction tightens the shot pattern, increasing pellet density at longer ranges. The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures that the choke tube can withstand the rigors of repeated use and exposure to the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 excels at its primary job: delivering tight, dense patterns for effective turkey hunting. Its strengths lie in its consistency and reliability, producing predictable patterns with a variety of turkey loads. The .575 constriction is an ideal balance, providing sufficient pattern density without excessive constriction that can lead to blown patterns.
One potential weakness is its dependence on specific ammunition. While it performed well with several popular turkey loads, it may not be optimal for all ammunition types. Experimentation with different loads is crucial to finding the ideal combination for a particular shotgun and hunting scenario.
Overall, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 meets and, in many cases, exceeds expectations. It transforms a standard 20-gauge shotgun into a specialized turkey hunting tool. The improved pattern density and consistent performance offer a significant advantage in the field, increasing the likelihood of clean, ethical kills.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 features a straightforward and functional design. The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the black oxide finish provides corrosion resistance and a professional appearance. The extended design offers a convenient gripping surface for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands.
The choke tube adds minimal weight to the shotgun and does not significantly alter its balance. Installation is simple, requiring only a choke tube wrench. There is no learning curve associated with its use; simply install it and pattern your shotgun with different turkey loads to determine the optimal combination.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 is built to last. The 17-4 stainless steel construction is highly resistant to wear and tear, ensuring years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent corrosion and maintain optimal performance.
The choke tube is easy to maintain. After each use, simply clean it with bore solvent and a nylon brush to remove powder residue and fouling. A light coat of oil will protect the steel from corrosion. With proper care, this choke tube should provide a lifetime of reliable performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 does not come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Tru-Choke systems.
There are no specific customization options for this choke tube, but users can experiment with different turkey loads to optimize its performance for their specific shotgun and hunting conditions. It is also compatible with aftermarket choke tube cases and storage solutions. The use of choke tube lubricants is recommended to ensure smooth installation and removal.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and dense patterns for improved turkey hunting success.
- Durable 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Extended design allows for easy installation and removal.
- Compatible with a wide range of 20-gauge shotguns with Tru-Choke systems.
- Noticeably improves pattern density compared to factory choke tubes.
Cons
- Performance is heavily dependent on specific ammunition; experimentation is required.
- The extended design slightly alters the shotgun’s balance.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575?
Perfect for: Turkey hunters looking to maximize the effective range and lethality of their 20-gauge shotguns. This choke tube is ideal for those who want a reliable and consistent performer without breaking the bank. Experienced hunters who demand precision and ethical kills will appreciate the improved pattern density and extended range.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who primarily hunt turkeys at very close ranges (inside 20 yards) may not see a significant benefit from this choke tube. Those who are unwilling to experiment with different ammunition types to find the optimal combination may also be disappointed.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality choke tube wrench is essential for easy installation and removal. Experimentation with different turkey loads is highly recommended to find the best match for your shotgun and hunting conditions.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 is a highly effective and affordable upgrade for any 20-gauge shotgun used for turkey hunting. Its durable construction, consistent performance, and easy installation make it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters.
The price is certainly justified, considering the improved pattern density and extended range it provides. A factory choke tube will often leave gaps in the spread, while the Carlson’s offers far more consistenty. It transforms a standard shotgun into a specialized turkey hunting tool, increasing the likelihood of successful hunts and ethical kills.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tru-Choke 20ga Extended Turkey .575 to any turkey hunter looking to enhance the performance of their 20-gauge shotgun. If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and want to extend your effective range, this choke tube is a game-changer. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!