Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported Review

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First Thoughts on the Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported

The Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported choke tube promises tighter patterns and reduced recoil, a combination every shotgunner craves. Carlson’s claims their “Triple Shot Technology” (TST) delivers superior performance. As someone who’s patterned countless loads through various chokes over the last decade, I’m eager to see if the Cremator lives up to the hype.

I was looking for a choke that would give me denser patterns at mid-range distances for sporting clays and upland bird hunting. My factory choke was leaving gaps in my patterns, leading to frustrating misses. I hoped the Cremator would solve this issue.

My first impression upon unboxing was positive; the black finish is sleek and the steel feels robust. The Carlsons Cremator exudes quality, but the real test would be on the range. Its weight feels substantial, suggesting durable construction from the 17-4 stainless steel.

Compared to a Briley Spectrum choke and a factory Benelli choke I own, the Carlsons Cremator stood out due to its ported design and advertised TST. I chose it hoping for the promised pattern density and recoil reduction. The other chokes are excellent in their own right, but lack the specific features touted by Carlson’s.

My initial reaction was excitement tempered by skepticism. I’ve seen many claims that don’t pan out, but the reputation of Carlson’s and the design features gave me hope. This choke looks and feels like a serious piece of equipment.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Carlsons Cremator at my local sporting clays range. The weather was clear, with a slight breeze. I used a Benelli Montefeltro 12 gauge and a variety of 1 1/8 oz target loads.

The Cremator noticeably tightened my patterns compared to the improved cylinder choke I usually use. I was consistently breaking clays at distances where I’d previously seen some misses. The ports seemed to mitigate some recoil, making follow-up shots faster.

Installation was easy and required no wrench. The Cremator tightened securely by hand. No issues or surprises arose during the initial testing session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Carlsons Cremator continues to perform admirably. It’s become my go-to choke for most sporting clays courses and upland bird hunts. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.

Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe-down with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in excellent condition. This choke has exceeded my expectations. Its performance improvements and ease of use are a noticeable step up from my previous setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported

Specifications

Gauge: 12 Gauge. This is a standard shotgun gauge, offering versatility for various shooting disciplines.
Choke Size: Mid-Range. This constriction is designed for optimal pattern density at moderate distances.
Model: MobilChoke. This thread pattern is compatible with Benelli and Beretta shotguns that use the MobilChoke system.
Finish: Black. The black finish provides corrosion resistance and a sleek aesthetic.
Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel. This material offers excellent strength and durability, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Ported Design: The ports are designed to reduce recoil and muzzle jump. This enables faster follow-up shots.
Triple Shot Technology (TST): The TST consists of three graduated rings to provide a gradual transition from the bore to the constriction. This results in reduced pellet deformation and improved pattern density.

These specifications translate to a choke that is durable, easy to use, and designed for consistent performance at medium ranges. The TST is intended to provide even pellet distribution. The ported design makes shooting more comfortable.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported significantly improves pattern density at 25-40 yards. This makes it ideal for sporting clays, dove hunting, and pheasant hunting. It functions flawlessly, delivering consistent results every time.

The Cremator’s strengths lie in its ability to create tight, consistent patterns. This enhances hit probability at moderate ranges. Its main weakness might be its limited range; it’s not ideal for very close or very long-range shots. It meets and exceeds expectations for a mid-range choke.

Design & Ergonomics

The Carlsons Cremator’s build quality is excellent. The 17-4 stainless steel feels solid and durable. The black finish adds a touch of class.

It’s extremely user-friendly. It requires no special tools for installation or removal. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting durability. It’s resistant to corrosion and wear. Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlsons Cremator doesn’t require any additional accessories. It’s a complete, standalone product. It is compatible with any standard Benelli/Beretta MobilChoke system. The choke itself is the customization.

Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported

Pros

Improved Pattern Density: The Carlsons Cremator’s TST technology creates tighter, more consistent patterns at mid-range distances.
Recoil Reduction: The ported design effectively reduces recoil and muzzle jump, leading to faster follow-up shots.
Durable Construction: Made from 17-4 stainless steel, the Cremator is built to withstand the rigors of regular use.
Easy Installation: No tools are required for installation or removal, making it quick and convenient to use.
Enhanced Confidence: Knowing your patterns are consistent at moderate ranges translates to increased confidence in the field.

Cons

Limited Range: Not ideal for very close or very long-range shots, as it’s designed specifically for mid-range performance.
Price Point: While offering excellent value, it’s slightly more expensive than some basic factory chokes.

Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported?

The Carlsons Cremator is perfect for sporting clays enthusiasts, upland bird hunters, and dove hunters. Anyone looking for improved pattern density at moderate ranges will benefit from this choke.

This product might not be the best choice for waterfowl hunters who primarily shoot at long distances with steel shot larger than #2. Those who are on a very tight budget and are satisfied with basic factory chokes might also skip this product.

A quality choke tube case for storage is a must-have accessory. This will protect the threads and prevent damage.

Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported

The Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported is an excellent choke tube that delivers on its promises. Its improved pattern density and recoil reduction make it a valuable addition to any shotgunner’s arsenal.

The price is justified by the increased performance and durability. I would absolutely recommend this choke. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to improve their accuracy and consistency at mid-range distances. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference the Carlsons Cremator can make!