Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Review

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Made a Bold First Impression

As someone who’s spent over a decade neck-deep in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve learned that the smallest upgrades can make the biggest difference in the field. When I first heard about the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black, I was intrigued by its promise of tighter, denser patterns and its suitability for steel shot. Could this choke tube really elevate my 20-gauge waterfowl game, or would it be just another piece of shiny steel joining the ranks of overhyped gear?

My trusty old factory choke had served me well enough for years, but I’d recently been facing frustrating situations where birds were just outside my effective range. The promise of a more consistent and tighter pattern from Carlson’s Delta Waterfowl choke piqued my interest. The need to reach those slightly further birds without sacrificing pattern density was the problem I aimed to solve with this upgrade.

Upon unboxing, the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black radiated quality. The black finish was smooth and even, while the stainless steel construction felt robust and durable. It has a reassuring weight, hinting at the premium materials used in its construction.

Compared to the Briley Spectrum extended choke tubes and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck chokes I’ve used previously, the Carlson’s offering seemed to strike a balance between performance and practicality. Briley’s are fantastic, but pricey; the Patternmaster relies on a very specialized internal design that can be ammunition-sensitive. I chose the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus because it promised versatility with steel shot and a more consistent pattern, at a price that didn’t break the bank.

My first impression was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. Would it live up to the hype, or would it be just another piece of gear that promised more than it delivered? Only time and a whole lot of shotshells would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black was a local sporting clays range. I wanted to get a feel for the choke’s performance on stationary targets before taking it into the field. The weather was typical for early spring – damp, with a light drizzle and a brisk wind.

Even in less-than-ideal conditions, the choke performed admirably. The target breaks were noticeably cleaner and more consistent, especially on the longer shots. I found I needed little time to adjust to the new pattern and was soon breaking clays with confidence at distances that previously gave me trouble.

One minor issue I encountered was the choke tube’s slightly tighter fit compared to my factory choke. It required a bit more effort to install and remove, but this wasn’t a major concern.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my shotgun. It’s seen action in a variety of conditions, from sweltering summer days in the duck blind to frigid mornings chasing geese in harvested fields. The choke has handled everything I’ve thrown at it with ease.

Despite being subjected to mud, water, and the occasional accidental bump, the choke shows no signs of wear and tear. The black finish has held up remarkably well, and the stainless-steel construction remains rust-free. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down after each use.

Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket chokes, the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl stands out in terms of its consistency and durability. It has definitely outperformed my expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in pattern density and effective range.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

Specifications

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is manufactured from 17-4 stainless steel, known for its strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand high pressures. It is designed for use with shotguns that utilize the Invector Plus choke system, specifically in 20 gauge. The choke tube features an extended design and has constrictions designated for mid-range and long-range shooting.

The choke has a 25% longer parallel section, which is designed to throw tighter and denser patterns compared to conventional chokes. It also features knurling on the end for easy installation and removal. The end and body are laser-marked with the constriction and size.

These specifications matter because they directly influence the choke’s performance and longevity. The stainless-steel construction ensures that the choke can withstand the harsh conditions often encountered in waterfowl hunting, while the extended design and longer parallel section contribute to improved pattern density and range. The clearly marked constrictions make it easy to select the appropriate choke for different hunting situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black excels at its primary job: delivering tighter, more consistent patterns at longer distances. In testing, I observed a noticeable increase in pellet density compared to my factory choke, resulting in cleaner kills and fewer wounded birds. The choke is easy to install and remove, thanks to the knurled end.

The steel shot compatibility is a significant advantage, allowing hunters to use non-toxic ammunition without sacrificing performance. The choke performs excellently with both lead and steel shot, provided you adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding shot size and velocity. The only real “weakness” is that the Long Range version is not suitable for steel shot larger than BB or any steel load faster than 1550 FPS, requiring a switch to the Mid Range choke for heavier/faster loads.

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl choke tube meets, and often exceeds, expectations for a premium aftermarket choke. It consistently delivers improved patterns, enhances effective range, and provides reliable performance in various hunting scenarios.

Design & Ergonomics

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black boasts a robust design and is made from high-quality materials. The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures durability and corrosion resistance, while the black finish provides a sleek, professional look. The weight is balanced, without adding unnecessary bulk to the shotgun.

The choke is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or expertise for installation and removal. The knurled end provides a secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands. The laser-marked constrictions are clear and easy to read, making it simple to identify the correct choke for the intended application.

Durability & Maintenance

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is built to last. The 17-4 stainless steel construction and durable black finish ensure that it can withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down after each use and occasional lubrication of the threads. With proper care, this choke should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it’s a standalone choke tube. However, it’s compatible with any shotgun that accepts Invector Plus choke tubes in 20 gauge.

There are no direct customization options for the choke itself, but you can choose between the Mid-Range and Long-Range constrictions based on your specific hunting needs. The compatibility with steel shot is itself a form of customization, allowing you to adapt to regulations and personal preferences without compromising performance.

Pros and Cons of Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

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Who Should Buy Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?

This choke tube is perfect for waterfowl hunters who frequently encounter shots at mid-to-long ranges and want to improve their pattern density. It’s also ideal for hunters who are required to use steel shot and want to maintain consistent performance. This choke is a great choice for both seasoned veterans and newer hunters looking to upgrade their equipment.

Hunters primarily shooting very close range, or those who only use lead shot, may not see as significant of a benefit from this choke. Someone unwilling to adhere to the steel shot size/velocity restrictions of the Long Range tube would also be better served by a different option.

A must-have accessory would be a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal, as well as a bore cleaning kit to ensure proper maintenance of the shotgun barrel.

Conclusion on Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is a well-made, high-performing choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter, denser patterns. The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures durability and longevity, while the steel shot compatibility makes it a versatile choice for waterfowl hunters. While the Long Range constriction does have some limitations regarding steel shot size and velocity, the overall benefits of this choke far outweigh the drawbacks.

At a price of $72.20, the value proposition is excellent. You’re getting a premium choke tube that can significantly improve your shooting performance without breaking the bank.

I would absolutely recommend the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Invector Plus 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to any waterfowl hunter looking to upgrade their choke. If you want to improve your pattern density, extend your effective range, and hunt with confidence, then this choke is a must-have. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference for yourself!

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