First Thoughts on the Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
Shotgun chokes. They’re often an afterthought for many shooters, a “set it and forget it” piece of equipment. But for serious wingshooters, competitive clay target enthusiasts, and even tactical shotgun users, the right choke can make all the difference. My journey to the Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported began with a frustrating dove season.
I was consistently missing birds that should have been easy shots. I suspected my factory choke was the culprit. I needed a choke that could provide consistent patterns at varying distances, especially those tricky mid-to-long range shots. That’s when I started researching Carlsons, a well-respected name in choke tubes.
Upon receiving the Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported, I was immediately impressed. The black finish looked durable and the stainless steel construction felt solid. Compared to my factory choke tubes, this felt like a significant upgrade. I was excited to get out to the range and see how it performed.
Several other chokes were considered, including some from Briley and Patternmaster. I chose the Carlsons Cremator because of its ported design and the specific focus on mid-to-long range shooting, aligning perfectly with my needs for dove hunting and sporting clays. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I hoped this choke would live up to the hype and tighten up my patterns.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported was at my local sporting clays range. The weather was clear with a slight breeze, perfect conditions for testing. I used a variety of 12-gauge shells, ranging from light target loads to heavier hunting loads.
The difference was immediately noticeable. My breaks on the mid-range clays were much more consistent. The ported design seemed to reduce recoil slightly, allowing for faster follow-up shots. There were no issues with installation or extraction, and the choke tightened securely.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Carlsons Cremator has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve used it extensively during sporting clays, dove hunts, and even a few rounds of trap. The choke shows no signs of wear and tear, and the black finish has held up well despite exposure to rain and mud.
Maintenance is simple. A quick cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent after each use keeps it in good condition. Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlsons Cremator has significantly improved my confidence and performance, especially on those longer shots where pattern density is critical. The build quality and consistent patterns definitely outperform the stock chokes that came with my shotgun.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge. This makes it compatible with any 12-gauge shotgun that uses the Optima HP choke system.
- Choke Size: Mid-Range/Long-Range. This constriction is designed for optimal patterns at distances beyond typical close-range shots, providing tighter groupings for more consistent hits.
- Model: Optima HP. This denotes its compatibility with Benelli/Beretta shotguns that utilize the Optima HP choke system, a common and reliable design.
- Finish: Black. The black finish provides a durable and non-reflective surface, enhancing its resistance to corrosion and wear.
- Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel. The use of 17-4 stainless steel ensures strength, corrosion resistance, and longevity even under heavy use.
- Chokes Included: 2. Having two chokes allows for varied setups based on your specific shooting needs.
- Constriction Type: Mid-Range/Long-Range. This ensures the choke is optimized for the distance.
- Configuration: Optima HP. Optima HP is a specific system.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the choke’s performance and durability. 17-4 stainless steel ensures the choke can withstand the pressures of repeated shotgun blasts without corroding or deforming. The mid-range/long-range constriction provides the optimal balance between pattern density and spread at those crucial distances.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported excels at its primary job: delivering consistent, tight patterns at mid to long ranges. The ported design reduces recoil and muzzle jump, making follow-up shots faster and more accurate. It significantly improves pattern consistency compared to factory chokes.
The strength is definitely its consistent patterns at extended ranges. One potential weakness is that it might be too tight for very close-range targets where a more open choke would be preferable. It absolutely meets my expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in my shooting performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The 17-4 stainless steel construction feels robust and durable. The black finish adds a touch of class and helps to prevent corrosion.
The choke is easy to install and remove using a choke tube wrench. There is no learning curve, anyone who has ever installed a choke tube can easily install this Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its 17-4 stainless steel construction, this choke should last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication will prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. It is designed for easy maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported set includes two chokes, offering versatility in pattern density. While there aren’t specific customization options for the choke itself, it is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Optima HP chokes. The chokes are compatible with other Optima HP accessories, like extended choke wrenches for quick changes in the field.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: Provides significantly tighter and more consistent patterns at mid-to-long ranges, leading to more broken clays and downed birds.
- Recoil Reduction: The ported design effectively reduces recoil and muzzle jump, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots.
- Durable Construction: Made from 17-4 stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion even in harsh conditions.
- Easy to Install & Maintain: Simple to install and remove with a standard choke tube wrench, and easy to clean and maintain with regular care.
- Versatile Performance: Suitable for a variety of shooting disciplines, including sporting clays, trap, and dove hunting.
Cons
- May Be Too Tight for Close Range: The tighter constriction may not be ideal for very close-range targets where a more open choke is needed.
- Price: While offering great value, the initial investment might be higher than some basic factory chokes.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported?
This choke is perfect for:
- Sporting Clays Shooters: Those looking to improve their consistency on mid-to-long range targets will see a noticeable difference.
- Dove Hunters: Ideal for those longer shots that are common in dove hunting, providing a tighter pattern for more consistent kills.
- Trap Shooters: Especially useful for shooters who find themselves needing a tighter pattern than a modified choke provides at the 16-yard line or beyond.
Who should skip this product?
- Beginner Shooters: Those who are new to shotgun shooting might benefit more from practicing with a more open choke before moving to a tighter constriction.
- Upland Bird Hunters: For close-range flushing birds like quail or grouse, a more open choke (e.g., cylinder or improved cylinder) is generally more suitable.
A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
The Carlsons Cremator Optima HP 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported is a well-designed, durable, and high-performing choke tube. The price is certainly justified by the improved pattern density, recoil reduction, and overall build quality. I would personally recommend it to any shotgun shooter looking to improve their performance at mid-to-long ranges.
If you’re tired of missing those crucial shots and want to take your shooting to the next level, the Carlsons Cremator is a worthy investment. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference a quality choke can make!