The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 Made a Bold First Impression
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 promises to bridge the gap between close-range cylinder bore patterns and the tighter, longer-distance full choke. For years, I’ve wrestled with the inherent limitations of factory chokes, especially when targeting waterfowl and upland game at varying distances. The promise of a more consistent, effective pattern within the crucial 20-45 yard range immediately piqued my interest.
My journey toward this specific choke tube stemmed from frustrating hunts where birds flared just outside the effective range of my improved cylinder choke. Conversely, switching to a full choke often resulted in overly tight patterns and missed opportunities at closer ranges. I needed a versatile solution that wouldn’t force me to constantly swap chokes based on perceived distance.
Upon unboxing the Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705, I was struck by its robust construction. The blued finish appeared durable and well-applied, a stark contrast to some of the cheaper, less-refined aftermarket chokes I’ve encountered. It felt substantial, inspiring confidence that it could withstand the rigors of repeated use in the field.
I considered other options like the Briley Spectrum choke and the Patternmaster Code Black, both highly regarded in the shotgunning community. However, the Carlson’s offering presented a compelling combination of affordability and proven performance for my specific Benelli Crio Plus barrel. The price point, just under $50, made it an easier commitment than the premium alternatives.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The choke tube looked and felt the part of a quality product, but the real test would come in the field, evaluating its pattern consistency and effectiveness on live birds. I was genuinely excited to see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 during an early-season teal hunt on a local wildlife refuge. The weather was mild, with a slight drizzle and a light breeze – typical conditions for that time of year. I was shooting 2 ¾ inch, #4 steel shot, a common load for teal hunting.
The installation was simple and straightforward, threading smoothly into my Benelli’s Crio Plus barrel without any binding or resistance. On the range, I patterned the choke at 25, 35, and 45 yards, noting the pattern density and consistency. The patterns were noticeably denser than with my improved cylinder choke, with fewer holes and a more even distribution of pellets across the target.
I was immediately impressed by the Carlson’s choke’s ability to consistently deliver effective patterns at varying distances. One minor surprise was that the 25-yard pattern was a bit tighter than I expected, meaning I needed to be more precise with my aiming. Otherwise, the first use was an overall success.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, spanning multiple waterfowl and upland game seasons, the Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. Despite exposure to mud, rain, and the occasional accidental bump, the finish remains intact with no signs of rust or corrosion. Cleaning the choke tube after each use is a simple process, requiring only a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent.
I’ve used it extensively with steel shot, lead, bismuth, and even TSS loads, and it has consistently delivered tight, even patterns without any signs of damage or wear. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper aftermarket chokes that often exhibited inconsistent patterns and premature wear, the Carlson’s choke is a significant upgrade. It has become an indispensable part of my shotgunning setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705
Specifications
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 is specifically designed for Benelli shotguns with the Crio and Crio Plus barrel system. Its constriction measures .705 inches, falling squarely within the “Modified” choke range, making it ideal for mid-range shooting scenarios. The choke is compatible with 12-gauge shotguns and is constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel for exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion.
The choke is designed to be used with shot sizes ranging from BB to #10, encompassing a wide array of shot types including steel, lead, bismuth, TSS, and Hevi-Shot. This versatility allows hunters to adapt to various game species and regulations without needing to switch chokes. The extended design facilitates easier choke changes, even with gloved hands.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 excels at delivering consistent and effective patterns within the 20-45 yard range. It provides a noticeable increase in pattern density compared to more open chokes like improved cylinder, resulting in fewer wounded birds and cleaner kills. The choke’s constriction is optimized for a balance of pattern density and spread, making it suitable for a variety of game species and hunting scenarios.
The choke tube functions perfectly as described, providing consistent patterns and reliable performance with various ammunition types. A potential drawback is that the patterns at closer ranges (inside 20 yards) can be quite tight, requiring precise aiming to avoid missed shots. Overall, it more than meets my expectations, significantly improving my hit-to-bird ratio at mid-range distances.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 is constructed from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel, resulting in a durable and corrosion-resistant choke tube. Its weight is negligible, adding no noticeable difference to the overall balance of the shotgun. Installation and removal are simple and straightforward, thanks to the extended design and smooth threads.
The extended design allows for easy identification of the choke and facilitates quick changes in the field. There is no learning curve associated with using the choke tube; it simply threads into the barrel and performs as expected.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 is built to withstand the rigors of heavy use and harsh environmental conditions. Constructed from heat-treated stainless steel, it resists corrosion and wear, ensuring a long service life. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a bore brush, solvent, and a quick wipe down after each use.
With proper care, this choke tube should last for many seasons of hunting and shooting. The durability of the construction means that no repairs should be necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 does not require any additional accessories for basic functionality. However, choke tube wrenches are available for easier installation and removal, particularly in cold or wet conditions. The choke is compatible with any standard 12-gauge shotgun ammunition, providing a wide range of customization options in terms of shot size and payload.
While there are no specific customization options for the choke tube itself, users can fine-tune their patterns by experimenting with different brands and types of ammunition. The Carlson’s choke tube readily accepts aftermarket choke wrenches designed for extended choke tubes.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705
Pros
- Consistent and effective patterns at mid-range distances (20-45 yards). Provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density compared to more open chokes.
- Versatile compatibility with various shot types (steel, lead, bismuth, TSS, Hevi-Shot). This eliminates the need to swap chokes when switching ammunition.
- Durable construction from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel. Resists corrosion and wear, ensuring a long service life.
- Easy installation and removal with an extended design. Facilitates quick choke changes in the field, even with gloved hands.
- Affordable price point compared to premium aftermarket chokes. Offers excellent value for the performance gained.
Cons
- Patterns can be too tight at close ranges (inside 20 yards). Requires precise aiming to avoid missed shots at close distances.
- Extended design may not be ideal for all hunting scenarios. Some hunters may prefer flush-mounted chokes for a more streamlined profile.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705?
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 is perfect for waterfowl hunters and upland bird hunters who frequently encounter targets at mid-range distances. It’s also suitable for sporting clays enthusiasts who want a versatile choke for a variety of targets. Anyone who owns a Benelli Crio or Crio Plus shotgun and wants to improve their pattern consistency and effectiveness should consider this choke.
This product might not be the best choice for hunters who primarily shoot at very close ranges (inside 20 yards) or those who prioritize a flush-mounted choke for aesthetic reasons. Hunters seeking extreme long-range performance might find a full choke to be more suitable. A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory, especially for hunters who frequently change chokes in the field.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 is a well-designed and effective aftermarket choke that delivers on its promise of improved pattern consistency at mid-range distances. The price is certainly justified, considering the enhanced performance and durability compared to factory chokes and cheaper alternatives. It’s a worthwhile investment for any serious shotgunner.
I would absolutely recommend the Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga .705 to anyone looking to upgrade their shotgun’s performance and improve their chances of success in the field. If you’re tired of missed shots due to inconsistent patterns, this choke is a game-changer. Take your shotgunning to the next level and experience the difference a quality choke tube can make. Get yours today!