First Thoughts on the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 promises to be a game-changer for shotgunners looking to maximize their effectiveness at, as the name suggests, close ranges. Carlson’s Choke Tubes are well-regarded for their quality and performance, so I was eager to see if this particular model lived up to the hype. It aims to deliver tighter, more consistent patterns with larger shot sizes like BB, 1, and smaller, specifically designed for close-quarters hunting and tactical scenarios.
My typical upland bird hunting has been frustratingly inconsistent inside of 30 yards, often leading to misses or wounded birds. I hoped the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 would provide more even patterns to ensure ethical and efficient harvests. Upon unboxing, the choke tube felt solid and well-machined, crafted from what appeared to be high-quality steel with a durable finish. The .720 constriction was clearly marked, and the threads looked clean and precise.
I considered other close-range choke options from Briley and Trulock, but the Carlson’s reputation for consistent patterns and the relatively affordable price point swayed me. I was excited by the promise of optimized close-range performance, but admittedly a little skeptical that it could truly make a significant difference. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would be more than just another gimmick.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 was at my local sporting clays range. The weather was typical for late spring – slightly damp with a light breeze. I patterned the choke with a variety of loads, including #4 lead, BB steel, and #7.5 target loads at distances of 20, 30, and 40 yards, using a Winchester Model 1300 12ga shotgun.
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 was easy to install, requiring no special tools beyond the standard choke wrench. Initial patterns at 20 yards were impressively tight and even with #4 lead shot, definitely a significant improvement over the factory modified choke. There were no noticeable gaps or flyers, suggesting a very consistent spread.
I did experience slightly increased recoil compared to the more open chokes I typically use. This wasn’t a major issue, but it was noticeable, especially with the heavier BB steel loads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 has proven to be a reliable addition to my shotgun arsenal. I’ve taken it on a few dove hunts and used it extensively at the range, putting hundreds of rounds through it. The choke tube still looks and performs like new, with no signs of wear or corrosion.
Cleaning is straightforward; a simple scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition. I’ve noticed significantly more consistent kills on doves within 35 yards. This is a welcome change from the occasional crippling shots I experienced with my previous choke setup.
Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket chokes, the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 definitely outperforms them in close-range applications, particularly with larger shot sizes. This has significantly improved my confidence in tighter hunting scenarios.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720
Specifications
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 is designed to fit most Winchester, Browning Invector, Mossberg Model 500 and Savage shotguns. It is specifically designed for 12 gauge shotguns. The choke size is designated as “Close Range,” with a .720 constriction.
This choke tube is optimized for use with shot sizes ranging from BB to #10 in steel, lead, bismuth, TSS, and Hevi-Shot. It is designed for close-range engagements, typically within 30-45 yards for lead shot and 40+ yards for steel shot. These yardages are recommendations to achieve a good pattern for ethical hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 excels at producing dense, even patterns at close ranges. Its primary strength is its ability to deliver consistent shot placement with larger shot sizes like BB and #1 steel. This is critical for effective waterfowl hunting and defensive applications.
The main weakness is its limited effective range. Beyond 45 yards, the pattern begins to open up significantly, reducing its effectiveness. It meets my expectations for close-range hunting and tactical scenarios, but it’s not an all-purpose choke.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 is constructed from high-quality steel with a durable black oxide finish. The build quality feels robust and capable of withstanding repeated use. The choke tube installs flush with the end of the barrel, maintaining a sleek profile.
The installation process is simple and user-friendly, requiring only a standard choke wrench. The knurled end provides a secure grip for easy tightening and removal.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 is built to last. The steel construction and durable finish offer excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. Regular cleaning after each use is essential to maintain its performance and prevent buildup.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a bore brush, solvent, and a choke tube wrench. With proper care, the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the choke tube itself. However, it’s compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Winchester/Invector style chokes. There are no specific customization options for the choke itself.
There is compatibility with a variety of shotshells and loads, allowing users to fine-tune their setup based on their specific needs and preferences. Experimenting with different loads is key to finding the optimal combination for this choke tube.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at close ranges.
- Optimized for larger shot sizes like BB, 1, and smaller, making it ideal for waterfowl hunting and tactical applications.
- Simple to install and maintain, requiring only basic tools and cleaning supplies.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and corrosion.
- Noticeably increased effectiveness at close distances, resulting in more ethical and efficient harvests.
Cons
- Effective range is limited to approximately 45 yards, making it unsuitable for longer-range shots.
- Recoil may be slightly increased compared to more open chokes, especially with heavier loads.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720?
Perfect for: Waterfowl hunters, tactical shotgun users, and anyone who frequently engages targets at close ranges (30-45 yards). Those who need to maximize their pattern density and consistency for ethical and effective shots will benefit greatly.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who primarily engage targets at longer ranges (beyond 45 yards) and those looking for an all-purpose choke tube for various hunting scenarios.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A reliable choke tube wrench and a variety of shotshells to experiment with in order to find the optimal load for your specific shotgun and hunting needs.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720
The Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 is a specialized tool that excels in its intended purpose: delivering tight, consistent patterns at close ranges. The price of $49.99 is justified by the improved performance and increased effectiveness it provides in close-quarters hunting and tactical scenarios.
I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking to optimize their shotgun’s performance at close ranges, particularly for waterfowl hunting or tactical applications. If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and missed shots at close distances, the Carlson’s Close Range #1 Choke Tube for Winchester 12ga .720 is a worthwhile investment that will undoubtedly improve your success rate. Add one to your kit, and experience the difference a well-designed choke can make!