The Carlsons Cremator Non-Ported Invector Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlsons Cremator Non-Ported Invector Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube promises tighter patterns and improved downrange performance. As someone who’s chased waterfowl and upland birds for over a decade, I’m always looking for an edge, and choke tubes are a critical part of that equation. My quest for a consistent, reliable, and easy-to-use choke led me to the Carlsons Cremator.
Years of battling inconsistent patterns and frustrating choke swaps had me searching for a solution. I wanted a choke that could handle various shot types, from steel to bismuth, without sacrificing pattern density. My previous experiences with ported chokes left me wary of excessive noise and cleaning hassles, leading me to the Carlsons Cremator Non-Ported.
Upon unboxing, the Carlsons Cremator impressed me with its solid feel and clean, black finish. The 17-4 stainless steel construction exudes quality, and the wrench-less design is a welcome change from fumbling with tools in the field. It just felt right, substantial without being overly heavy.
I considered similar offerings from Briley and Patternmaster, but the Carlsons Cremator stood out due to its Triple Shot Technology (TST) and reputation for consistent patterns. The Briley chokes, while excellent, can be quite pricey. The Patternmaster’s ported design, while effective, introduces more noise, a concern for stealthier hunts. The Carlsons Cremator seemed to strike the perfect balance of performance, ease of use, and price.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to test the Carlsons Cremator’s claims of improved pattern density and reduced pellet deformation. Whether this choke lived up to the hype, remained to be seen but the initial build quality and ease of installation immediately put me in a good place.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Non-Ported Invector Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Carlsons Cremator was on a frigid January morning in a flooded timber hole targeting mallards. The wind was biting, and the ducks were wary, making precise shots critical. I used the Mid-Range choke with 3-inch steel #2 shot. The timber restricted my shots to roughly 30 yards on average that morning.
The Carlsons Cremator performed admirably in the cold, damp conditions. The wrench-less design made it simple to swap chokes between flights as needed. More importantly, the patterns were noticeably tighter and more consistent than with my previous choke.
I experienced no issues with installation or removal, even with gloves on. After cleaning, I was pleased that there was no fouling build-up in the choke like I experienced with other brands. I felt confident enough after the first day to leave the choke in the entire duck season.
Extended Use & Reliability
After months of use across various waterfowl and upland hunts, the Carlsons Cremator has proven to be incredibly reliable. The 17-4 stainless steel shows no signs of corrosion or wear, even after repeated exposure to harsh weather and cleaning solvents. It is a very durable, very well-made product.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps the Carlsons Cremator in top condition. The non-ported design minimizes fouling, unlike some of my previous experiences with other chokes. I prefer to use no more than a simple brush to clean the internal components of the choke, to maximize longevity.
Compared to my previous choke setup, the Carlsons Cremator offers a noticeable improvement in pattern consistency and downrange performance. Fewer wounded birds and more clean kills speak volumes about its effectiveness. This choke did not disappoint, but greatly exceeded all expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Non-Ported Invector Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge, Invector Plus Thread Pattern.
- Construction: 17-4 Stainless Steel, ensuring exceptional durability and corrosion resistance.
- Constriction: Available in Mid-Range and Long-Range constrictions. These offer versatile pattern control for various shooting distances.
- Design: Non-Ported, minimizing muzzle blast and simplifying cleaning. The absence of ports also provides a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Technology: Features Carlson’s Triple Shot Technology (TST), utilizing three graduated rings in the taper section to reduce pellet deformation and improve pattern density. This contributes to tighter, more consistent patterns downrange.
- Installation: Wrench-less installation allows for quick and easy choke changes in the field.
- Finish: Black finish adds a sleek, professional look and enhances corrosion resistance.
These specifications are vital for optimal performance. The 17-4 stainless steel ensures the choke can withstand the rigors of heavy use and harsh environmental conditions. The TST and non-ported design maximize pattern efficiency and reduce maintenance.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator excels in its primary function: delivering tight, consistent patterns at mid to long ranges. This translates to more ethical kills and fewer wounded birds. Whether hunting waterfowl over decoys or pursuing flushing upland game, this choke provides the confidence needed for successful shots.
The strength of the Carlsons Cremator lies in its ability to produce dense, uniform patterns with various shot types. A minor weakness could be its tight constrictions might not be ideal for very close-range shots where a wider, more open pattern is desired. Overall, the Carlsons Cremator performs as advertised and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Cremator boasts a robust yet streamlined design. The 17-4 stainless steel construction gives it a solid feel without adding excessive weight to the shotgun. Its slick aesthetic enhances the looks of your gun.
The wrench-less installation is a game-changer, allowing for quick and easy choke changes in the field. The user-friendly design requires no special tools or expertise. It takes seconds to change this choke, a stark contrast to some other choke designs.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlsons Cremator’s 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting durability. With proper care, this choke should provide years of reliable service. I have had it for several years and fully expect to have it for a few more seasons to come.
Maintenance is simple: a quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use is sufficient. The non-ported design eliminates the need for tedious port cleaning. I can easily see this lasting a decade or more, given the quality of construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator is designed for use with Carlson’s choke tubes and doesn’t require any specific accessories. Its compatibility with Invector Plus 12-gauge shotguns provides a wide range of shotgun options. No further customization is needed.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Non-Ported Invector Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: The TST technology delivers noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns.
- Wrench-less Installation: Quick and easy choke changes in the field without the need for tools.
- Durable Construction: 17-4 stainless steel ensures long-lasting performance and corrosion resistance.
- Versatile Performance: Suitable for both mid-range and long-range shooting applications.
- Easy Maintenance: Non-ported design simplifies cleaning and reduces fouling.
Cons
- While great, its tight constrictions might not be ideal for very close-range shots.
- The price point may be slightly higher than some other choke tube options.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Non-Ported Invector Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?
The Carlsons Cremator is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters and upland bird hunters seeking improved pattern density and downrange performance. It is also well-suited for sporting clay shooters who want a reliable and versatile choke for mid-to-long range targets. Any shooter who wants better shot groupings will appreciate the tight patterning.
Those who primarily hunt in very close quarters or prioritize extremely wide patterns should skip this product. Hunters that frequently change out their choke system should also be sure their shotgun accepts Invector Plus chokes. A must-have accessory would be a choke tube case.
Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Non-Ported Invector Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
The Carlsons Cremator Non-Ported Invector Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube is a worthwhile investment for any shotgun enthusiast looking to enhance their shooting performance. The enhanced patterning is something you will notice immediately. Its durable construction, wrench-less design, and TST technology make it a standout product in a crowded market.
The price is justified by the improved pattern density, ease of use, and long-lasting durability. I would highly recommend the Carlsons Cremator to anyone seeking a reliable and effective choke tube for mid to long-range shooting. It’s a quality-built product that delivers on its promises, making it a valuable addition to any hunter’s or shooter’s arsenal. Get yours today and experience the difference!