The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube promises enhanced performance for waterfowl hunters using Benelli Crio Plus 20 gauge shotguns. Boasting Carlson’s Triple Shot Technology (TST) and constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel, it aims to deliver tighter, more consistent patterns. This choke tube piqued my interest as I’ve always sought to maximize the effective range and pattern density of my 20 gauge for those late-season, wary ducks.
I was tired of crippling birds at longer distances with factory chokes. The promise of reduced pellet deformation and denser patterns from the Carlsons Cremator was exactly what I was looking for.
The packaging was standard, nothing fancy, but the choke tube itself felt substantial. Its weight and the deep black finish suggest quality materials and construction.
I considered the Briley Spectrum Extended choke, known for its versatility, and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck, famous for its tight patterns. However, the Carlsons Cremator offered a compelling balance of mid- to long-range performance with the added benefit of no steel shot restrictions. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlsons Cremator was on a frigid morning in a flooded timber hunting spot. The air was thick with mist, and the mallards were flying high. I tested it with 3-inch steel #2 shot at varying distances, from 30 to 50 yards.
The Cremator exhibited noticeably tighter patterns compared to my factory modified choke. At 40 yards, the difference was clear; fewer pellets strayed outside the vital area. It took a few shots to adjust to the tighter pattern, as my initial shots were a bit too centered.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Carlsons Cremator has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from early teal season in warm, humid weather to late-season hunts in freezing rain. There are no signs of rust or corrosion.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a choke tube brush and solvent keeps it in excellent condition. Compared to my experiences with cheaper aftermarket chokes that sometimes seize up, the Carlsons Cremator has remained consistently easy to install and remove. It has exceeded my expectations, providing consistent patterns and improving my confidence in making longer shots.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Specifications
The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is specifically designed for Benelli shotguns with the Crio Plus choke system. It is a 20 gauge choke tube intended for mid- to long-range waterfowl hunting. Machined from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, it’s built to withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting.
The Carlson’s Triple Shot Technology (TST), which features three graduated rings in the taper section, is the defining feature. This design is intended to reduce pellet deformation, resulting in fewer flyers and denser patterns. The “no steel shot restrictions” aspect is also crucial, allowing hunters to use any size or speed of steel shot without concern for damaging the choke.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator truly shines in its ability to deliver consistent, dense patterns at extended ranges. The TST technology seems to do its job by minimizing pellet deformation. This leads to fewer stray pellets and a more concentrated impact on the target.
The primary strength lies in its pattern density at 30-50 yards, a range where many factory chokes struggle. A potential weakness could be its tight pattern at closer ranges (under 25 yards), which may require more precise aiming to avoid missing the target completely. It exceeded my expectations, particularly in windy conditions where tighter patterns are essential for consistent kills.
Design & Ergonomics
The choke tube’s black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, providing corrosion resistance. The stainless steel construction gives it a robust feel, while the extended design makes it easy to install and remove without tools. It feels well-balanced and doesn’t add noticeable weight to the shotgun.
The choke tube installs flush to the end of the barrel. This makes it easy to use and does not require any special knowledge or skills.
Durability & Maintenance
Made from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, the Carlsons Cremator is built to last. After a full season of use, there are no signs of wear, rust, or corrosion. Maintenance is simple; cleaning after each hunt with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed.
The durable construction ensures it can withstand the harsh conditions of waterfowl hunting for many seasons to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator itself doesn’t come with additional accessories beyond the standard choke tube case. However, it’s compatible with any Benelli Crio Plus 20 gauge shotgun. Some hunters may choose to use a choke tube wrench for easier installation and removal. The Carlsons Cremator integrates seamlessly with existing Benelli shotguns.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: The Carlsons Cremator delivers noticeably denser patterns, especially at mid- to long-range.
- Triple Shot Technology (TST): Carlson’s TST effectively reduces pellet deformation, resulting in fewer flyers.
- No Steel Shot Restrictions: Hunters can confidently use any size or speed of steel shot.
- Durable Construction: The 17-4 stainless steel build ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple cleaning keeps the choke tube in excellent condition.
Cons
- Tight Pattern at Close Range: The tighter patterns might be too constrictive for shots under 25 yards, requiring more precise aiming.
- Price: At around $90, it’s more expensive than some basic choke tubes.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?
The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is perfect for waterfowl hunters using Benelli Crio Plus 20 gauge shotguns who seek improved pattern density at mid- to long-ranges. This choke is also great for hunters who frequently use steel shot and want a choke tube that can handle any load without worry.
Hunters who primarily hunt over decoys at close range might not see as much benefit from the tighter patterns and may prefer a more open choke. A must-have accessory is a good quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal, especially after heavy use in wet conditions.
Conclusion on Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black choke tube delivers on its promise of improved pattern density and long-range performance. The price is justified by the enhanced performance and durable construction.
I would personally recommend it to any waterfowl hunter looking to maximize the effective range of their Benelli Crio Plus 20 gauge shotgun. If you’re tired of crippling birds at longer distances, the Carlsons Cremator is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your shotgun and put more birds in the bag this season!