Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported Review

First Thoughts on the Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported

As someone who’s spent years knee-deep in duck blinds and navigating the intricate world of shotgun chokes, I’ve seen my fair share of promises. The Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported promises tighter patterns and reduced pellet deformation, a siren song to any serious waterfowl hunter. My quest to find a choke that truly delivers on the promise of consistent, long-range performance in my 20-gauge Benelli led me to this particular offering from Carlson’s.

I needed a choke tube that could reliably extend my effective range without sacrificing pattern density, especially when using non-toxic shot. I was tired of crippling birds at distances that should have been lethal, a frustrating experience that spurred me to seek a better solution. Upon unboxing the Carlsons Cremator, I was immediately struck by the robust feel of the 17-4 stainless steel and the slick black finish.

Compared to the factory choke tubes and a couple of aftermarket options I’ve tried, the Cremator’s heft and visible porting gave it an immediate air of quality and purpose. I chose it over a Briley or Patternmaster due to Carlson’s reputation for value and the specifically engineered “Triple Shot Technology” (TST) they touted. I walked away from the purchase initially excited, hoping that I’d finally found a choke tube that could deliver consistent performance at longer ranges.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Carlsons Cremator was on a late-season goose hunt in the flooded cornfields of Eastern Washington. The weather was typical – cold, damp, and windy, conditions that demand peak performance from both hunter and gear. Installation was a breeze, requiring no wrench; a welcome change from some of the more finicky chokes I’ve used.

The Cremator’s performance was immediately noticeable. Geese that would have previously flown away unscathed at 40 yards now crumpled convincingly. I was very excited to be seeing the improved performance from the Carlsons Cremator.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of waterfowl hunting and several trips to the sporting clays range, the Carlsons Cremator continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of wear or corrosion, a testament to the quality of the stainless steel and black finish. Cleaning is a snap, requiring only a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent.

Compared to my previous experiences with other choke tubes, the Cremator has consistently delivered tighter, more consistent patterns at longer ranges, leading to cleaner kills and fewer crippled birds. The improved pattern density, even with steel shot, made a noticeable difference. It’s been an undeniable upgrade, boosting my confidence in the blind.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported

Specifications

The Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported is specifically designed for 20-gauge Benelli and Beretta shotguns that utilize the MobilChoke system. It features a mid-range/long-range constriction, constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, and finished with a black coating. The TST (Triple Shot Technology) consists of three graduated rings in the taper section, promoting a smoother transition for the shot column.

These specifications are crucial because they contribute to the choke’s ability to produce dense, consistent patterns at extended ranges. The 17-4 stainless steel ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, while the TST technology minimizes pellet deformation, a key factor in achieving optimal pattern density.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlsons Cremator excels at extending the effective range of a 20-gauge shotgun. Its consistent pattern density provides the confidence needed to take longer shots, reducing the chance of crippling game. The TST technology seems to work as advertised, creating patterns that rival those of more expensive choke tubes.

The only potential downside is that the extended length of the choke, while providing muzzle protection, adds a bit of weight to the end of the barrel. Overall, it exceeds my expectations, proving to be a valuable asset in the field.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with the 17-4 stainless steel providing a solid, confidence-inspiring feel. The black finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and resistant to scratches and wear. Installation and removal are simple, thanks to the wrench-less design.

There’s virtually no learning curve; simply screw it in and start shooting. The extended design also offers a degree of muzzle protection, a nice bonus.

Durability & Maintenance

The Carlsons Cremator is built to last. The 17-4 stainless steel construction is highly resistant to corrosion, ensuring years of reliable performance. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a bore brush and solvent.

I anticipate this choke will outlast many of my shotguns. Its robust design and high-quality materials make it a worthwhile investment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlsons Cremator requires no specific accessories. Its wrench-less design makes swapping it out quick and easy, and it’s compatible with any 20-gauge Benelli or Beretta shotgun that uses the MobilChoke system. While no specific customization is available for the Cremator itself, the improved performance it provides opens up a wider range of ammunition options to fine-tune your patterns.

Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported