First Thoughts on the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black promises enhanced patterns and greater consistency for waterfowl hunters. Carlson’s Choke Tubes are a familiar name in the shotgun world, known for providing quality at a reasonable price, and this extended choke tube aims to improve upon the standard offerings. I’ve used various chokes over the years, from factory tubes to high-end aftermarket options, always searching for that edge in pattern density at extended ranges.
My quest for this choke stemmed from a frustrating duck season last year. I was consistently missing shots that should have connected, leading me to suspect inconsistencies in my pattern. I wanted a choke that could reliably deliver tighter, more consistent patterns at both mid and long ranges, improving my odds of bringing home birds. The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke seemed to offer this capability, so I decided to give it a shot (pun intended!).
Upon unboxing, the choke exuded quality. The black finish was even and appeared durable, and the knurling was aggressive enough to allow for easy hand tightening and removal. It felt solid and well-made, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of a waterfowl season. Compared to the factory choke tubes that came with my Remington 870 20 gauge, this felt like a significant step up in terms of material and construction. I chose this Carlson’s choke over similar offerings from Briley or Patternmaster due to its more attractive price point and the Delta Waterfowl endorsement, which suggested a focus on practical hunting applications.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to get to the range and pattern it to see if it lived up to the claims of tighter and denser patterns. I hoped this choke would solve my pattern inconsistency issues and improve my success in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge was at my local shooting range, on a blustery October afternoon. I patterned the choke with a variety of 20 gauge loads, including both lead and steel shot, at distances of 30 and 40 yards. I used large sheets of paper to accurately assess the pattern density and distribution.
The performance in slightly windy conditions was acceptable; the choke held its own, and the wind didn’t seem to drastically affect the patterns. It was easy to install and remove, even with slightly muddy hands. Initially, I was surprised by the relatively tight patterns produced by the “Mid-Range” choke at 30 yards – perhaps tighter than I expected for that distance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full waterfowl season of using the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke, it has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. It has held up remarkably well to the harsh conditions of duck hunting in coastal environments, with no signs of rust or corrosion despite regular exposure to saltwater. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick scrub with a bore brush and some solvent keeps it in top condition.
Compared to previous experiences with other chokes, the Carlson’s choke has provided noticeably more consistent patterns, particularly at longer ranges. This has translated to cleaner kills and fewer crippled birds, making it a worthwhile investment. I’ve become more confident in my ability to make ethical shots at longer distances thanks to this choke.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Specifications
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black is specifically designed for 20 gauge Remington shotguns. It features an extended design, meaning it protrudes slightly beyond the end of the barrel. The choke is constructed from 17-4 stainless steel, known for its strength and corrosion resistance. The black finish adds a touch of stealth and helps protect the choke from the elements.
The “Mid-Range” and “Long-Range” constrictions are laser-marked on the end of the choke for easy identification. The extended design also incorporates knurling for easy hand installation and removal. The choke is designed to handle both lead and steel shot, though restrictions apply to steel shot size and velocity with the Long Range choke. The 25% longer parallel section is intended to create more consistent patterns.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke is to improve pattern density and consistency, and it largely delivers on this promise. At the range, I observed tighter and more uniform patterns compared to the factory chokes that came with my shotgun. The “Mid-Range” choke is ideal for shots between 25 and 35 yards, while the “Long-Range” choke extends the effective range to 45 yards and beyond.
One minor weakness is that the “Long-Range” choke can produce patterns that are too tight at closer ranges, leading to missed shots. The choke definitely met my expectations and improved my shotgun’s performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke is a well-designed and ergonomically sound product. The 17-4 stainless steel construction feels robust and durable, inspiring confidence in its longevity. The knurled exterior makes it easy to grip and install or remove, even with cold or wet hands.
The black finish is aesthetically pleasing and provides a degree of corrosion resistance. The laser-marked constriction markings are clear and easy to read. It requires no special tools for installation or removal.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. After a full season of hard use, my Carlson’s choke shows no signs of rust or pitting. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. With proper care, this choke should last for many years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge doesn’t require any specific accessories, but its performance can be further enhanced by using high-quality ammunition. While no customization options are offered directly for the choke itself, the wide availability of aftermarket choke wrenches can provide additional leverage for installation and removal if needed. It’s compatible with any 20 gauge Remington shotgun that accepts Rem Chokes. Aftermarket choke cases can provide protection during storage.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
Pros
- Noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns compared to factory chokes.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Knurled exterior allows for easy hand installation and removal.
- Laser-marked constriction markings are clear and easy to read.
- Affordable price point compared to other aftermarket choke options.
Cons
- The “Long-Range” choke can produce patterns that are too tight at closer ranges.
- Only compatible with Remington shotguns.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black?
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke is perfect for waterfowl hunters who want to improve their pattern density and consistency without breaking the bank. It is ideal for those who frequently take shots at medium to long ranges and want a more reliable pattern than their factory chokes can provide. Hunters who use Remington shotguns will find this choke a valuable addition to their gear.
This product may not be the best choice for hunters who primarily take shots at very close range (inside 20 yards), as the tight patterns produced by this choke at those distances can lead to missed shots. Those who own shotguns from other manufacturers (e.g., Benelli, Beretta, Mossberg) will need to look for chokes specifically designed for their guns. A quality choke wrench might be considered a must-have accessory, especially for those who frequently change chokes in the field.
Conclusion on Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black
The Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke 20 Gauge Mid-Range/Long-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black offers a significant improvement in pattern density and consistency for Remington shotgun owners. At a price of $72.20, it represents an excellent value for the money. The durable construction, easy installation, and noticeable performance gains make it a worthwhile investment for any serious waterfowl hunter.
I personally recommend the Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke to anyone looking to upgrade their shotgun’s performance without spending a fortune. If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and missed shots, give this choke a try – you won’t be disappointed! Take your waterfowl hunting to the next level – invest in a Carlsons Delta Waterfowl Rem Choke today!