First Thoughts on the Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
Waterfowl hunting demands precision and consistency, especially when those ducks and geese are decoying just a bit further out than comfortable. The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported choke tube set promises to deliver tighter, more consistent patterns at extended ranges, something I’ve always pursued to ethically harvest game. These ported chokes are designed to work specifically with Benelli Crio Plus shotguns, which is crucial since I’ve relied on a Benelli for years in some of the harshest hunting environments.
Years of experience have taught me that a quality choke tube can make or break a hunt. I needed a choke set that could consistently deliver tight patterns at mid to long-range distances without sacrificing pattern density. I was intrigued by the ported design, hoping it would help reduce recoil and muzzle jump, allowing for faster follow-up shots on those flock shoots.
The Carlsons Cremator choke tubes arrived in a simple, functional package. My first impression was the solid feel of the 17-4 stainless steel. The black finish looks durable and should blend well with my shotgun.
Compared to other aftermarket chokes I’ve used, like those from Briley and Patternmaster, the Carlsons Cremator set seemed to strike a good balance between price and features. While the others offer premium options, the Carlsons appeared to offer excellent performance at a more accessible price point. I was definitely excited to get them out in the field and see if they lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Carlsons Cremator chokes was during an early teal season hunt in the flooded timber. The weather was typical for early September: humid and warm. I installed the mid-range choke in my Benelli and patterned it at 30 yards with a variety of steel shot loads.
The patterns were noticeably tighter and more consistent than with the factory modified choke. I was impressed by the even distribution of pellets within the pattern, with fewer gaps and holes. The ported design seemed to slightly reduce muzzle jump, although the effect was subtle.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of the entire waterfowl season, I used the Carlsons Cremator chokes extensively in various conditions, from frigid, snowy mornings in layout blinds to rainy afternoons in flooded fields. The chokes consistently delivered tight, reliable patterns. They proved to be highly effective on ducks and geese at distances ranging from 30 to 50 yards.
After cleaning my shotgun after each hunt, I made sure to inspect and clean the choke tubes. There were no signs of rust or corrosion despite being exposed to harsh weather and various cleaning solvents. The chokes showed only minor wear marks from being installed and removed. Compared to some cheaper choke tubes I’ve used in the past that quickly degrade, the Carlsons Cremator has proven to be a durable and reliable performer.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
Specifications
The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported choke tube set is specifically designed for Benelli shotguns with the Crio Plus system. It includes two chokes: one mid-range and one long-range. Both chokes are constructed from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel for exceptional durability and corrosion resistance.
The black finish provides a non-reflective surface that blends well with most shotguns. The ported design of these chokes is intended to reduce recoil and muzzle jump, allowing for faster follow-up shots. These specific specifications contribute significantly to the choke tubes’ performance, reliability, and longevity in the demanding environment of waterfowl hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator chokes perform exceptionally well in the field. The mid-range choke is ideal for decoying birds at 30-40 yards, while the long-range choke extends that effective range to 50 yards and beyond. The patterns are consistently tight and dense, ensuring clean, ethical kills.
One minor drawback is that the ported design can sometimes lead to increased muzzle blast and noise, especially when using heavier loads. However, the benefits of reduced recoil and muzzle jump generally outweigh this slight disadvantage. Overall, the Carlsons Cremator chokes meet and even exceed expectations for performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Cremator chokes are well-designed and built to last. The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides excellent strength and corrosion resistance. The black finish is durable and non-reflective.
Installing and removing the chokes is easy with a standard choke tube wrench. There is no learning curve required to use these chokes; they perform as expected right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlsons Cremator chokes are built to withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting. The 17-4 stainless steel construction is highly resistant to rust and corrosion. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure years of reliable performance.
These chokes are very easy to maintain. Simply remove them from the shotgun after each hunt, clean them with a bore brush and solvent, and apply a light coat of gun oil.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported choke tube set does not come with any accessories beyond the two chokes themselves. However, it is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Benelli Crio Plus shotguns. There are no specific customization options for these chokes, but they are designed to work with a wide range of 12-gauge ammunition. The most impactful customization option is selecting the appropriate load for your specific hunting situation and pairing it with the correct choke.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: The Carlsons Cremator chokes consistently deliver tighter, denser patterns than factory chokes, resulting in more ethical kills.
- Extended Range: These chokes extend the effective range of your shotgun, allowing you to confidently take shots at birds that are further out.
- Reduced Recoil: The ported design helps to reduce recoil and muzzle jump, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel, these chokes are built to withstand the harsh conditions of waterfowl hunting.
- Easy to Maintain: The Carlsons Cremator chokes are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring years of reliable performance.
Cons
- Ported design can increase muzzle blast and noise.
- Limited to Benelli Crio Plus shotguns only.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported?
The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported choke tube set is perfect for waterfowl hunters who use Benelli shotguns with the Crio Plus system. These chokes are ideal for hunters who want to improve their pattern density, extend their effective range, and reduce recoil. Anyone who consistently hunts waterfowl at varied distances will find these chokes beneficial.
Hunters who primarily hunt in close quarters, such as extremely tight timber, might not see as much benefit from these chokes, as more open chokes might be better. Also, individuals sensitive to muzzle blast may find the ported design undesirable. A must-have accessory would be a quality choke tube wrench designed for Benelli Crio Plus shotguns to ensure proper installation and removal.
Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported
Overall, the Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Ported choke tube set is an excellent investment for serious waterfowl hunters. The improved pattern density, extended range, and reduced recoil make these chokes a valuable addition to any Benelli Crio Plus shotgun. At a price of $91.30, the value proposition is excellent.
I would definitely recommend these chokes to anyone looking to improve their waterfowl hunting performance. Get yours today and experience the difference a quality choke tube can make!