The Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless choke tubes promising improved patterns and performance. However, the Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported caught my eye with its unique Triple Shot Technology (TST) and claims of reduced pellet deformation. Could this choke tube truly deliver tighter patterns and longer-range performance in my 20-gauge?
I’ve been struggling to consistently achieve tight patterns with steel shot when duck hunting. My factory choke tubes just weren’t cutting it at longer ranges, resulting in too many wounded birds. I needed a solution that could extend my effective range and ethically harvest game.
The Carlsons Cremator arrived well-packaged, and the initial impression was positive. The black ported design looked aggressive, and the 17-4 stainless steel construction felt incredibly durable. It weighed slightly more than my factory choke, but the promise of improved performance outweighed this minor concern.
I considered the Briley Spectrum choke tubes and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck, both reputable options. Ultimately, I chose the Carlsons Cremator due to its purported TST technology and the positive reviews highlighting its ability to handle steel shot effectively. Plus, the price point was more attractive than some of the competitors.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to put the Carlsons Cremator through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype. The aggressive porting and solid construction gave me confidence, but the real test would be on the range and in the field.
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 test of the Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported was at my local shooting range, patterning the choke with various 20-gauge loads. I tested both lead and steel shot, focusing on mid-range and long-range distances (30-50 yards). The weather was clear and mild, providing ideal conditions for patterning.
The Carlsons Cremator noticeably improved pattern density compared to my factory modified choke at 40 yards. The steel shot patterns were more uniform, with fewer flyers and a tighter core. I also noticed a slight reduction in felt recoil, likely due to the ported design.
The choke was incredibly easy to install and remove without needing any tools. However, I initially struggled to get used to the ported design and the slight increase in muzzle report. After a few shots, I quickly adapted, and the performance benefits became apparent.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple duck hunting trips in varying weather conditions, the Carlsons Cremator continues to impress. It has consistently delivered tighter, more consistent patterns, resulting in cleaner kills and fewer wounded birds. The choke has proven to be a reliable addition to my shotgun setup.
The Carlsons Cremator’s finish is holding up well with only minor wear marks after extended use and exposure to mud, water, and brush. Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition. The stainless steel construction appears impervious to rust and corrosion.
In comparison to my previous choke tubes, the Carlsons Cremator offers a significant improvement in pattern density and consistency, particularly at longer ranges. It allows me to ethically take shots that were previously outside my effective range. The confidence boost alone makes it worth the investment.
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. It is constructed from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel for exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. The choke tube features a black ported design to reduce recoil and muzzle rise.
The Carlsons Cremator utilizes Carlson’s Triple Shot Technology (TST), which incorporates three graduated rings in the taper section. These rings create a more gradual transition from the bore to the final constriction. This design aims to reduce pellet deformation, minimize flyers, and produce denser, more consistent patterns.
The Mid-Range and Long-Range constrictions offer versatile performance for various shooting scenarios. The wrench-less installation allows for quick and easy changes in the field. NOTE- Optima HP and Remington Pro Bore Long Range cannot be used with any steel shot larger than #2.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported excels at producing tighter, more consistent patterns at extended ranges. This translates to increased confidence in the field and more ethical harvests. The ported design effectively reduces felt recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
The main strength is its ability to consistently deliver improved pattern density with both lead and steel shot, especially at 30-50 yards. A potential weakness is the slightly louder muzzle report due to the porting, which might be a concern for some shooters. Overall, it significantly exceeds expectations for a 20-gauge choke tube in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Cremator boasts a robust build quality, crafted from durable 17-4 stainless steel. The added weight over a factory choke is negligible. The wrench-less installation is a welcome feature, making it easy to swap chokes on the fly.
The choke is very user-friendly with no learning curve beyond understanding its effective range. It threads smoothly into the barrel. The black finish adds a tactical aesthetic to any shotgun.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the 17-4 stainless steel construction, the Carlsons Cremator is built to last for years with proper care. The black finish helps protect against corrosion and wear. Simple cleaning after each use is sufficient to maintain its performance and appearance.
The Carlsons Cremator can be cleaned with standard gun cleaning solvents and a bore brush. No special tools or procedures are required. The durable materials ensure it can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported does not come with any included accessories beyond the choke tube itself. Carlson’s offers different constrictions within the Cremator line (Close Range, Mid Range, and Long Range) that can be purchased separately to customize the choke’s performance based on specific hunting or shooting needs. The Cremator is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench if desired, but is designed for wrench-less installation.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
Pros
- Significantly improved pattern density, especially at mid-to-long range. This leads to cleaner kills and more ethical harvests.
- Noticeable reduction in felt recoil. The ported design makes shooting more comfortable, especially during extended sessions.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction. Ensures long-lasting performance in harsh environmental conditions.
- Wrench-less installation. Allows for quick and easy choke changes in the field.
- Improved consistency with steel shot. Critical for waterfowl hunting and other applications where non-toxic shot is required.
Cons
- Slightly louder muzzle report compared to non-ported chokes. This might be a concern for some shooters in sensitive areas.
- NOTE- Optima HP and Remington Pro Bore Long Range cannot be used with any steel shot larger than #2. Some may find the limitations of steel shot size a hinderance.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported?
The Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported is perfect for 20-gauge shotgun owners, particularly waterfowl hunters and sporting clays shooters, looking to improve their pattern density and effective range. Anyone who regularly uses steel shot or hunts in areas where longer shots are common will benefit greatly.
Individuals who are sensitive to noise or prefer a more subtle muzzle report might want to consider a non-ported choke tube. Also, those primarily shooting at very close ranges (inside 20 yards) may not see a significant benefit.
A must-have accessory would be a choke tube case to protect the Carlsons Cremator when it is not installed in the shotgun. There are no required modifications necessary.
Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
The Carlsons Cremator Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported is an outstanding choke tube that delivers on its promises. It provides a tangible improvement in pattern density and consistency, extends effective range, and reduces felt recoil. For 20-gauge Benelli and Beretta shotgun owners seeking enhanced performance, this choke tube is a worthwhile investment.
The price of $91.30 is justified given the quality of materials, improved performance, and increased confidence in the field. It’s a cost-effective way to upgrade your shotgun’s capabilities without breaking the bank.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Carlsons Cremator. If you are struggling with inconsistent patterns or looking to extend your effective range, don’t hesitate—add the Carlsons Cremator to your arsenal and experience the difference. It has become an indispensable part of my hunting gear, and I am confident it will improve your shooting experience as well.