The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR Made a Bold First Impression
Over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world has taught me one thing: even the smallest component can make or break a hunt. That’s why, when I started noticing inconsistent patterns with my trusty Browning Invector DS 12 gauge, I knew it was time to explore choke tube upgrades. The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR promised tighter patterns, reduced pellet deformation, and extended range – a trifecta that immediately piqued my interest.
I had been struggling to achieve consistent, ethical kills on waterfowl beyond 40 yards with my factory choke. This led me to seek a choke that could deliver denser patterns at longer distances, particularly with steel shot.
The Carlsons Cremator arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was positive; the stainless steel felt robust and well-machined. It had a nice weight and felt very solid. Compared to the factory Browning chokes, the extended length and porting immediately suggested a performance upgrade. I considered the Briley Spectrum and the Patternmaster Code Black Goose, both reputable options, but the Carlsons Cremator’s combination of TST (Triple Shot Technology), extended design, and aggressive porting seemed like the best value for my needs.
I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the Carlsons Cremator would live up to the hype and deliver the pattern density I desperately needed for confident, long-range shots. The aggressive porting definitely made it stand out and the extended length felt very high quality. Only time on the range would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR was at my local shooting range. The goal was to pattern different steel shot loads at 40 and 50 yards. I tested it on a crisp autumn morning, with temperatures hovering around 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
The choke screwed in effortlessly, no wrench needed. During the first few shots, I immediately noticed a reduction in felt recoil. The porting seemed to effectively redirect gases. The patterns at 40 yards were noticeably tighter than with my factory modified choke, with a more even distribution of pellets within a 30-inch circle. There were no immediately apparent issues, and the choke performed as advertised from the first shot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full waterfowl season of using the Carlsons Cremator, I’m happy to report it has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion. Even after repeated cleanings, the finish remains intact.
Maintenance is a breeze; a quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent keeps it in top condition. Compared to my previous choke tubes, the Carlsons Cremator has consistently delivered tighter, more reliable patterns, especially with steel shot. It certainly outperforms the factory choke tubes that came with my Browning. The difference in long-range confidence is night and day. I’m able to drop ducks at longer ranges which results in more ethical kills.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR
Specifications
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR is specifically designed for Browning shotguns utilizing the Invector DS (Double Seal) choke system. It’s a 12-gauge choke tube constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel for maximum durability.
The choke features Carlson’s Triple Shot Technology (TST), which consists of three graduated rings in the taper section. This is meant to provide a gradual transition from the bore to the final constriction. This reduces pellet deformation, minimizes flyers, and produces denser patterns. It also has an extended, ported design for recoil reduction and improved patterns. The Carlsons Cremator also features a knurled end for easy, wrench-free installation and removal.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR excels at delivering consistent, tight patterns, particularly at longer ranges. The TST technology appears to significantly reduce pellet deformation, resulting in fewer stray pellets outside the main pattern. This dramatically increases my confidence in making clean, ethical kills on waterfowl.
The main strength is its ability to tighten patterns with steel shot, overcoming a common problem with many aftermarket chokes. One minor weakness might be the slightly louder report due to the porting, but the recoil reduction more than compensates for this. The choke exceeded my expectations in pattern density and recoil management.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR boasts a robust, well-machined construction. The stainless steel build ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion. The extended design allows for easy installation and removal without the need for a wrench, which is a welcome convenience in the field.
The knurled end provides a secure grip, even with gloved hands. There is absolutely no learning curve involved; it’s as simple as screwing it in.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR is built to withstand harsh hunting conditions. After a full season of use, there are no signs of wear or corrosion. This shows that it’s built to last.
Cleaning is straightforward. A quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent after each use is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality. However, Carlson’s offers it in Close Range, Mid Range, and Long Range constrictions, allowing you to fine-tune your patterns for different hunting scenarios.
Because it’s a choke tube, it doesn’t lend itself to extensive customization beyond selecting the appropriate constriction for your needs. It is fully compatible with any 12-gauge Browning Invector DS shotgun. The ability to choose the right constriction for the hunt is invaluable.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR
Pros
- Delivers consistently tight and dense patterns, especially with steel shot.
- Reduces felt recoil thanks to the ported design.
- Constructed from durable, corrosion-resistant 17-4 stainless steel.
- Easy to install and remove without tools.
- Improved long range performance.
Cons
- Porting may result in a slightly louder report.
- May not be ideal for extremely close-range shooting (use a closer-range choke for those situations).
Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR?
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR is perfect for waterfowl hunters who frequently take shots at medium to long ranges. It’s also great for those seeking improved pattern density and reduced recoil. This choke is for anyone wanting to improve their shot consistency.
Hunters primarily hunting in timber or over decoys at very close range might find a closer-range choke more suitable. Those particularly sensitive to loud noises may also want to consider the non-ported version. A good shotgun cleaning kit is a must-have to maintain the choke and barrel.
Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR
The Carlsons Cremator Ported Choke 12 ga. Browning Invector DS LR is a well-designed, high-performing choke tube that delivers on its promises. At $48.99, it represents an excellent value for the improvement in pattern density and recoil reduction it provides. The price is absolutely justified considering the increased performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend it to any waterfowl hunter looking to enhance their shotgun’s performance. If you’re ready to take your long-range shooting to the next level, the Carlsons Cremator is a game-changer. Don’t settle for inconsistent patterns; invest in the Carlsons Cremator and experience the difference for yourself.