Let’s Talk About Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug
For any shotgun enthusiast who’s ever had to comply with hunting regulations or simply wants to limit their shotgun’s capacity, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug is a simple, affordable solution. These small, orange plugs, manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, are designed to reduce a shotgun’s magazine capacity to two shells, fulfilling legal requirements in many hunting scenarios. It’s a no-frills product, but sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective.
My journey to finding these plugs started when I decided to participate in a local waterfowl hunt. The regulations stipulated a maximum of three shells total – one in the chamber and two in the magazine. While I could manually load only two shells each time, fumbling with that in a tense hunting situation wasn’t ideal.
Upon unboxing, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug presented exactly what I expected: two bright orange, solid polymer rods. They felt robust and well-made, despite their simplicity. The material seemed durable enough to withstand repeated use and trimming.
Having used wooden dowels in the past to limit magazine capacity (a common, albeit less elegant solution), the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug immediately impressed me. The universal design promised easy fitting and trimming, something those dowels never offered. My first impression was one of relief; a simple, inexpensive solution to a common shotgunning problem.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug prior to my waterfowl hunt, at my local shooting range. The test involved fitting and trimming the plug for my Remington 870, then running several simulated hunting scenarios. I wanted to ensure the shotgun functioned flawlessly with the reduced capacity and that the plug wouldn’t interfere with cycling.
The range day presented typical conditions: a mix of sun and light wind. The fitting process itself was straightforward, as described in the provided documentation. I used a pair of pruning shears to trim the plug gradually, testing the capacity after each cut.
The initial fitting took about 15 minutes, and once I found the right length, the plug worked flawlessly. No more than two shells could be loaded into the magazine, and the shotgun cycled without issue. My only initial observation was the need for careful trimming; taking off too much would render the plug useless.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug in my Remington 870, including during that waterfowl hunt, it has performed reliably. I’ve put around 200 rounds through the gun with the plug installed, and it hasn’t shifted, cracked, or otherwise degraded. The plug simply does its job, unnoticed.
I did clean the plug after my hunt, simply wiping it down with a gun cleaning solvent. It shows no signs of wear and tear. Compared to my previous experience with wooden dowels which could swell or splinter, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug is a superior solution, offering consistent performance and peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug is a deceptively simple product, yet its specifications are worth noting. It’s a universal design, meaning it’s not specifically made for one shotgun model, offering broad compatibility. The plug is constructed from a durable orange polymer and each package contains two plugs.
The orange color is intentional, making it easy to identify the plug when disassembling the shotgun for cleaning or maintenance. Made in the USA, the plug is designed to reduce a shotgun’s magazine capacity from four rounds to two rounds, complying with hunting regulations. Ultimately, the “universal” nature and ease of trimming are the defining features.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug is to limit magazine capacity, and it performs this job admirably. Once properly trimmed, it prevents the loading of more than two shells into the magazine tube. The plug does not interfere with the shotgun’s action or cycling and the performance is consistent regardless of shell length (within the shotgun’s rated capacity).
The plug meets and exceeds expectations for a product of this type. It’s simple, reliable, and solves a specific problem with minimal fuss. The only potential area for improvement would be clearer instructions on the best method for trimming, though plenty of resources are available online.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug is basic but effective. The orange polymer construction is lightweight and durable, and the solid rod design simplifies installation and trimming. Its universal nature is both its strength and a potential drawback, requiring the user to customize the fit.
There’s no real “ergonomics” to discuss, as the plug resides entirely within the shotgun’s magazine tube. The smooth polymer construction prevents any snagging or interference with the shotgun’s internal components. The ease of installation is its most appealing design feature.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its solid polymer construction, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug is expected to last for years with proper care. It’s resistant to most solvents and oils commonly used in gun cleaning. There are no moving parts to wear out.
Maintenance is incredibly simple: just wipe it clean when cleaning the shotgun. There is nothing to repair unless one severely mis-trims it. Durability is a key strength, making it a worthwhile investment for shotgun owners.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug is not designed for accessories or further customization beyond trimming. It’s a standalone product with a single purpose. There are no compatible accessories from other brands, as it resides entirely within the shotgun’s magazine tube. Its simplicity is its greatest asset.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug
Pros
- Simple and effective solution for limiting shotgun magazine capacity.
- Universal design fits a wide range of shotgun models.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and trim to the correct length.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to all shotgun owners.
Cons
- Requires trimming for proper fit, which can be slightly tedious.
- No included instructions beyond what’s printed on the packaging.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug?
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug is perfect for hunters, particularly waterfowl hunters, who need to comply with regulations limiting magazine capacity. It is also useful for recreational shooters who prefer a reduced capacity for training or personal preference. The universal design makes it suitable for owners of multiple shotguns of various makes and models.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who require a permanent magazine capacity reduction or those who are unwilling to trim the plug to fit their specific shotgun. If someone wants a drop-in, no-modification solution specific to their shotgun, then a model-specific plug might be preferable. There are no must-have accessories, although a good pair of pruning shears or a small saw is essential for trimming.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug is an excellent example of a simple product that solves a specific problem effectively. Its universal design, durable construction, and affordable price make it a worthwhile addition to any shotgun owner’s kit. While the trimming process may require some patience, the end result is a reliable and compliant shotgun.
The price of $13.99 for a two-pack is easily justified, given the product’s durability and functionality. For anyone needing to limit their shotgun’s magazine capacity, I would highly recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Universal Shotgun Plug. It’s a small investment that provides significant peace of mind, ensuring compliance with hunting regulations and providing a reliable solution for reduced-capacity shooting. Pick up a pack today and experience the simplicity and reliability for yourself!