Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black Review

The Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black Made a Bold First Impression

Shotgun chokes are often an overlooked, yet critical component of any shotgun setup. They fine-tune patterns, extending effective range and ensuring ethical harvests. Carlson’s Choke Tubes has built a solid reputation for producing quality chokes at reasonable prices.

My search for a new close-range choke stemmed from frustrating experiences with tight patterns at typical upland bird hunting distances. I consistently found myself either missing birds completely or, worse, delivering patterns that were too dense, resulting in damaged meat. I needed a choke that opened up the pattern quickly and consistently at shorter ranges.

Upon receiving the Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The matte black finish was smooth and even, suggesting quality machining. It felt solid in my hand without being overly heavy.

I considered the Briley Diffusion choke and the Patternmaster Anaconda. I chose the Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black because of Carlson’s Choke Tubes reputation for value and the Cremator series’ Triple Shot Technology (TST), which seemed promising for pattern consistency. The price point also made it an easier entry into experimenting with different choke options.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality appeared excellent, and the TST design was intriguing, but the proof, as always, would be in the pattern. I was eager to see how it performed in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black came during a dove hunting trip on a friend’s farm. The conditions were typical for early September: warm, dry, and slightly breezy. I was using a 12-gauge Beretta A300 Outlander with 1 1/8 oz, #8 shot loads.

The choke screwed in smoothly and easily without the need for a wrench. After patterning the choke at 20 yards, I was immediately impressed with the evenness of the pattern. There were no significant holes or dense spots; the shot was distributed consistently across the target.

My initial shots at doves flying overhead were noticeably more effective than with my previous modified choke. The wider pattern gave me a greater margin for error, resulting in cleaner kills and fewer cripples. The choke performed exactly as I had hoped.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full upland season of chasing grouse, woodcock, and quail, the Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has consistently delivered wide, even patterns, even with different shot sizes and loads. I also took it to the sporting clays course to specifically work on close range shots, and saw a marked improvement.

The choke shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to muddy fields and dense brush. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s required. The matte black finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and corrosion.

Compared to other close-range chokes I’ve used in the past, the Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black outperforms them in pattern consistency and ease of cleaning. It has become my go-to choke for any situation where close-range shots are likely. The extended portion protects the muzzle of the gun too.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black

Specifications

• The Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black is designed for 12-gauge shotguns with Invector Plus choke systems. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of popular shotgun models.

• The choke is constructed from premium 17-4 stainless steel for superior strength and corrosion resistance. This material choice guarantees long-lasting performance in harsh environmental conditions.

• It features Carlson’s proprietary Triple Shot Technology (TST), a series of three graduated rings in the parallel section. This technology is designed to reduce pellet deformation and shorten the shot string, leading to denser and more consistent patterns.

• The choke is non-ported and has a matte black finish for a low-profile look and enhanced corrosion resistance. This keeps the gun from getting unnecessarily dirty.

• It’s an extended choke tube design, adding approximately one inch to the barrel length. This extension provides a longer parallel section for tighter patterns, easier installation without a wrench, quick removal, and added muzzle protection.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black excels at delivering wide, even patterns at close ranges (15-25 yards). This makes it ideal for upland bird hunting, close-quarters sporting clays, and situations where quick target acquisition is essential. The pattern opens up very quickly.

Its main strength is its ability to produce consistent patterns with minimal pellet deformation. The TST technology noticeably reduces flyers and creates a more uniform shot distribution. It definitely meets expectations.

A potential weakness could be its limited effective range. It’s not designed for long-range shots, so it’s crucial to choose the appropriate choke for the specific hunting situation. The constriction is very open, so you’ll need to be closer to the target.

Design & Ergonomics

The Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black boasts a clean, functional design. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, minimizing glare and reflection. It gives the barrel a nice, finished look.

The extended design allows for easy installation and removal without the need for a wrench. This is a significant advantage in the field, where quick choke changes may be necessary. No tools are needed.

The choke is well-balanced and adds minimal weight to the shotgun. This ensures that the gun handles naturally and doesn’t become cumbersome during extended use. It is very user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

Constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black is built to last. It can withstand the rigors of hunting in all types of weather conditions. It is extremely durable.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use is all that’s required to keep it in top condition. The finish is very resistant to corrosion.

With proper care, this choke should provide years of reliable service. I expect to keep it for a long time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, its compatibility with the Invector Plus choke system allows for seamless integration with a wide range of shotguns.

There are no specific customization options available for this particular choke. However, Carlson’s Choke Tubes offers a variety of other chokes in the Cremator series with different constrictions to suit various shooting needs. The Invector Plus system is very popular.

Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator 12 Ga Invector + Close Range Black