Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black Review

First Thoughts on the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black promises enhanced performance for waterfowlers seeking tighter patterns at extended ranges. It’s a specialized choke designed to optimize shot density, something I’ve been chasing for years in the duck blind. Carlson’s is a reputable name in shotgun chokes, and the Delta Waterfowl series is specifically tailored for waterfowl hunting, which instantly piqued my interest.

I’ve often struggled with achieving consistent kills on birds that flare at the edge of my effective range. This led me to search for a choke tube that could extend my reach without sacrificing pattern density. I hoped that this choke would solve my range problem. The promise of tighter patterns and the Carlson’s reputation for quality had me eager to try it out.

Unboxing the choke, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The black finish was clean and even, and the knurled end gave it a solid, functional look. It felt substantial in my hand, which spoke to the quality of the materials used. It also gave me confidence that it could withstand the rigors of a harsh hunting environment.

I considered other extended choke tubes, including some from Briley and Patternmaster. However, the Carlson’s choke stood out for its reasonable price point and the specific focus on long-range waterfowl hunting. I chose it for its balance of price, performance claims, and reputation. My initial impression was positive; I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test with the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black was during a late-season duck hunt on the Chesapeake Bay. It was a typical day on the bay, complete with a biting wind and intermittent drizzle. I was hunting from a layout boat in open water.

The conditions were challenging, but I was determined to see how the choke performed. I primarily used 3-inch steel shot loads, size BB, which I typically use for long-range shots. The choke was easy to install, thanks to the knurled end, even with gloved hands in the cold. I did not need a choke wrench to change it.

The immediate difference I noticed was the tighter patterns at 40+ yards. Distant ducks, that would normally require multiple shots, were folding cleanly with one. The improvement in pattern density gave me much more confidence in my ability to take longer shots. This first outing was encouraging.

Extended Use & Reliability

After using the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black for an entire waterfowl season, I can attest to its durability and consistent performance. The choke has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of rust or corrosion despite repeated exposure to saltwater and mud. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down after each hunt keeps it in top condition.

I’ve also noticed the patterns remain consistent, even after firing hundreds of rounds through it. This level of reliability is crucial in waterfowl hunting, where you often have limited opportunities to make a clean shot. Compared to my previous choke, which was a standard modified choke, the Carlsons choke offers a noticeable improvement in pattern density at longer ranges. This choke has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

Specifications

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is specifically designed for 20-gauge Remington shotguns. It extends beyond the end of the barrel, offering a longer parallel section for improved pattern consistency. The choke is constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, known for its strength and corrosion resistance. It is finished with a black coating for added protection and a low-profile look.

This choke is designated as “Long Range,” indicating its intended use for shots at distances beyond what a typical modified or improved cylinder choke can effectively handle. The knurled end allows for easy installation and removal without tools. The constriction size and choke designation are laser-marked on both the end and body of the choke for easy identification. This is particularly important when switching chokes in the field.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black excels at its primary function: delivering tighter, denser patterns at extended ranges. I observed a significant improvement in pattern density compared to a standard modified choke, particularly at distances of 40 yards and beyond. This translates to more consistent and humane kills on waterfowl.

The choke’s extended parallel section contributes to its consistent performance. This design feature allows the shot column to stabilize before exiting the choke, resulting in fewer flyers and a more uniform pattern. A minor weakness is that, due to the tighter constriction, patterns can be too tight at close range (inside 25 yards) which could result in missed shots. The choke meets and, in most cases, exceeds expectations for long-range waterfowl hunting.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is excellent. The 17-4 stainless steel construction feels robust and durable, and the black finish provides a sleek, non-reflective appearance. The choke is lightweight and doesn’t noticeably affect the balance of the shotgun.

The knurled end is a practical design feature that makes installation and removal easy, even with wet or gloved hands. There is no noticeable learning curve involved with using the choke. It is as simple as screwing it in and heading to the blind.

Durability & Maintenance

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black, is built to last. The 17-4 stainless steel construction resists corrosion and wear, ensuring a long service life. Regular maintenance is minimal; cleaning after use with a standard shotgun cleaning kit is sufficient to keep it in good condition. The choke shows no signs of wear and tear after a full season of hard use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Remington shotguns. There are no specific customization options for this choke. It is a dedicated long-range choke tube.

Pros and Cons of Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

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Who Should Buy Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?

The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is perfect for waterfowl hunters who frequently encounter birds at longer ranges and want to improve their pattern density and consistency. It’s ideal for hunters using layout boats, hunting over large bodies of water, or any situation where shots beyond 40 yards are common. Anyone who wants more consistent kills will also benefit from this choke.

Hunters who primarily hunt in close-range situations, such as timber or flooded fields, may find the patterns too tight and should consider a more open choke. This choke is not universal. It is only for 20-gauge Remington shotguns. A must-have accessory would be a good choke tube wrench for quick changes in the field.

Conclusion on Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black

Overall, the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Long Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is a worthwhile investment for serious waterfowl hunters looking to extend their effective range and improve their pattern density. The price of $39.10 is justified by the noticeable improvement in performance and the durable construction. It is a value buy.

I would personally recommend this choke to any 20-gauge Remington shotgun owner who wants to take their waterfowl hunting to the next level. The tighter patterns and consistent performance will give you the confidence to take those longer shots and put more birds in the bag. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!

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