First Thoughts on the 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 promises denser patterns and reduced pellet deformation, ultimately leading to more successful waterfowl hunts. Carlsons boasts that their Triple Shot Technology (TST) will provide a noticeable edge, and as a seasoned waterfowl hunter always seeking improvements, I was eager to test these claims. This isn’t just another choke tube; it’s a potential game-changer for my 20-gauge Benelli.
I’ve been chasing ducks and geese for over a decade. I’ve struggled with inconsistent patterns, especially at longer ranges. My need for a choke tube that could consistently deliver tight, even patterns at distances beyond 30 yards led me to the Carlsons Cremator.
Upon unboxing, the sleek black finish and the solid feel of the 17-4 stainless steel immediately impressed me. The Carlsons Cremator feels incredibly robust and well-made. It’s a far cry from some of the cheaper, mass-produced choke tubes I’ve encountered.
I considered the Briley Spectrum and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck chokes before ultimately choosing the Carlsons Cremator. The Carlsons Cremator was selected due to its purported TST technology and positive user reviews regarding its pattern density. It seemed like the best bet for improving my long-range performance with steel shot.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black looks and feels like a premium product. If it performs as advertised, it will be a worthy addition to my hunting arsenal.
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
I tested the Carlsons Cremator at my local shooting range, patterning it at 30 and 40 yards with various steel shot loads commonly used for waterfowl hunting. I aimed to assess its pattern density and consistency. The weather was mild with a slight crosswind.
The Carlsons Cremator immediately produced noticeably tighter patterns compared to my factory choke tubes. At 30 yards, the pattern was dense and evenly distributed, with very few flyers. I was impressed with how consistently it performed, even with different brands of ammunition.
The choke tube was easy to install, simply threading into my Benelli Crio Plus barrel. I experienced no issues with fit or finish. After a few shots, I noticed some powder residue accumulating but it was easily wiped away with a cloth.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple waterfowl hunts in varying weather conditions, the Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my shotgun. The black finish still looks great. I haven’t noticed any signs of rust or corrosion, despite exposure to rain and mud.
The choke tube continues to perform consistently, providing tight and effective patterns in the field. The denser patterns have translated to cleaner kills and fewer cripples. I am able to confidently take shots at longer ranges that I previously would have hesitated on.
Cleaning the Carlsons Cremator is straightforward. A quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent removes any fouling. It has required minimal maintenance to keep it in top condition.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory choke tubes, the Carlsons Cremator is a significant upgrade. The improved pattern density and consistency have noticeably enhanced my success rate on waterfowl hunts. It has exceeded my expectations.
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 designed for 20-gauge Benelli shotguns with the Crio Plus choke system. It is a mid-range/long-range choke tube, constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel with a black finish. It is manufactured in the U.S.A.
This choke tube features Carlsons’ Triple Shot Technology (TST), which utilizes a series of three graduated rings in the taper section. This is designed to provide a more gradual transition from the bore to the constriction, reducing pellet deformation and creating denser patterns. The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, even in harsh hunting environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Cremator excels at producing tight, consistent patterns with steel shot, particularly at mid-to-long ranges. The TST technology appears to live up to its claims, resulting in reduced pellet deformation and fewer flyers. Its performance has proven to be reliable in the field, even in adverse weather conditions.
The primary strength of the Carlsons Cremator is its ability to deliver dense, even patterns at distances beyond 30 yards, effectively extending the range of my 20-gauge. A minor improvement could be made to the choke’s markings, making them easier to read in low light conditions. Overall, it has met and exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Cremator boasts a simple yet effective design. The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides a robust and durable feel, while the black finish gives it a sleek and professional look. The choke tube is easy to handle and install, with a smooth, non-slip exterior.
The choke tube is user-friendly. There is no specialized installation required. Its threads smoothly into Benelli’s Crio Plus system.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is built to last. The 17-4 stainless steel construction is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting. With proper care, this choke tube should provide many seasons of reliable performance.
Maintenance is simple. A quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s required to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black does not come with any additional accessories beyond the choke tube itself. There are no readily available customization options directly applicable to the choke tube. Its function is specific and streamlined.
The Carlsons Cremator is compatible with any 20-gauge Benelli shotgun that utilizes the Crio Plus choke system. The standard thread pattern allows for easy interchangeability with other Crio Plus choke tubes from various brands. This means that users can easily switch between different choke constrictions to suit different hunting scenarios.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Cremator Waterfowl Benelli Crio Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Significantly Improved Pattern Density: The Carlsons Cremator delivers noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns compared to factory choke tubes, increasing the effective range of my 20-gauge.
- Reduced Pellet Deformation: The TST technology minimizes pellet deformation, resulting in fewer flyers and more pellets on target.
- Durable Construction: Made from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, the choke tube is built to withstand the harsh conditions of waterfowl hunting.
- Easy to Install and Maintain: The Carlsons Cremator threads smoothly into my Benelli Crio Plus barrel and requires minimal cleaning.
- Increased Confidence in the Field: Knowing that my shotgun is capable of delivering consistent patterns at longer ranges has significantly boosted my confidence.
Cons
- Markings Can Be Difficult to Read: The choke tube markings could be more prominent, making it easier to identify the constriction in low-light conditions.
- Premium Price: The Carlsons Cremator is more expensive than some other choke tubes on the market.
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 who use a 20-gauge Benelli with the Crio Plus choke system and are looking to improve their pattern density and effective range. It’s ideal for hunters who frequently encounter shots at mid-to-long ranges (30-40 yards) and want to ensure clean, ethical kills. Experienced waterfowlers seeking to fine-tune their shotgun’s performance will benefit the most.
Hunters who primarily hunt over decoys at very close ranges (inside 20 yards) or those who are on a very tight budget may not find the Carlsons Cremator to be a necessary upgrade. Its mid-to-long-range focus makes it less advantageous for close-quarters shooting. Novice hunters might be better off starting with a more affordable, all-purpose choke tube before investing in a specialized option.
A must-have accessory would be a good quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal.
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 is a high-quality choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter, more consistent patterns with steel shot. The TST technology and durable 17-4 stainless steel construction make it a worthy investment for serious waterfowl hunters. It genuinely enhances the effective range of a 20-gauge Benelli.
The price of $91.30 is justified by the noticeable improvement in performance and the quality of the materials used. While it may not be the cheapest choke tube on the market, the Carlsons Cremator provides excellent value for money in terms of improved pattern density and increased confidence in the field. The investment is well worth it.
I would highly recommend the Carlsons Cremator to any waterfowl hunter who is serious about improving their shotgun’s performance and increasing their success rate. If you are tired of inconsistent patterns and crippling birds, this choke tube is a game-changer. Upgrade your Benelli today and experience the difference a quality choke tube can make.