First Thoughts on the Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 promises to be a versatile addition to any Remington 12-gauge shotgun, offering improved shot patterns at moderate distances. Carlson’s is a reputable name in choke tubes, and the promise of enhanced performance across various shot types – steel, lead, bismuth, TSS, and Hevi-Shot – immediately piqued my interest. I’ve spent over a decade fiddling with chokes, and the right one can truly transform a shotgun’s effectiveness.
I needed to address inconsistent patterns I was getting with my Remington 870 at ranges between 25 and 40 yards, particularly when using steel shot for waterfowl. Factory chokes were either too open, resulting in sparse patterns, or too tight, leading to “blown” patterns and ineffective shots. I was specifically seeking a choke that would provide dense, consistent patterns within this mid-range, regardless of the shot type.
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 arrived in simple but effective packaging. Holding it for the first time, the choke tube felt solid and well-machined, exhibiting a clean, black finish. The threads were smooth and consistent, suggesting a good fit with my Remington 870’s barrel.
Compared to a similar choke tube from Briley, the Carlson’s appeared to have a slightly more robust construction. While the Briley offering touted a ported design for reduced recoil (something I wasn’t particularly concerned with), the Carlson’s simply felt more durable. I also considered a Patternmaster choke, known for its unique wad-stripping technology, but the Carlson’s offered a more traditional approach and a significantly lower price point.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality seemed excellent, and the specifications suggested it would address my patterning issues. The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 looked like it could be a valuable tool in improving my shotgun’s performance, but the proof would be in the patterning board.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 at my local shooting range, specifically on a patterning board set up at 30 yards. I cycled through various loads: 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch steel shot (BB and #2), lead #6 shot, and bismuth #4 shot. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze.
The choke tube screwed in smoothly and securely, requiring no excessive force. Recoil felt comparable to the factory modified choke, with no noticeable increase. The real difference, however, was immediately apparent on the patterning board: significantly tighter and more consistent patterns with all tested loads compared to the factory modified choke.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use across multiple hunting trips (waterfowl and upland birds) and numerous range sessions, the Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scratches. The choke tube continues to thread smoothly and securely into my Remington 870.
Maintenance is simple: a quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use. This keeps the threads free of residue and prevents any potential seizing. Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket chokes, the Carlson’s has exceeded expectations. The factory chokes never provided the consistent patterns I needed, and other aftermarket options often suffered from poor threading or premature wear.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710
Specifications
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 is designed for 12-gauge Remington shotguns. Its nominal constriction is .710, resulting in a “Mid Range” or Modified choke designation. It is rated for use with shot sizes ranging from BB to #10 in steel, lead, bismuth, TSS, and Hevi-Shot.
This choke tube is specifically intended for use at lead yardages of 20-35 and steel yardages of 25-45. These specifications are important because they dictate the effective range and optimal shot patterns for different types of ammunition. A tighter constriction, like a full choke, might be better for longer ranges, while a more open choke, like a cylinder bore, is preferable for close-range shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 performs its job exceptionally well, providing consistent and reliable shot patterns within its intended range. Accuracy is noticeably improved compared to the factory chokes, resulting in fewer missed shots and cleaner kills. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a mid-range choke tube.
The primary strength of this choke tube is its versatility. It performs admirably with various shot types and sizes, eliminating the need to swap chokes frequently. The only area for potential improvement would be to include clear markings indicating the optimal range for each shot type.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 features a simple yet functional design. The build quality is excellent, with high-quality steel and precise machining. Its weight is negligible, adding no noticeable bulk to the shotgun.
It is incredibly user-friendly; screwing it in and out is a breeze with a standard choke wrench. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust steel construction suggests that the Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 will last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the threads are essential to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. It’s easy to maintain and clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 doesn’t come with any accessories, as it is a standalone product. However, its compatibility with any Remington 12-gauge shotgun allows for seamless integration with existing setups. This choke tube is compatible with standard choke wrenches and bore cleaning kits.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710
Pros
- Consistent Patterns: Provides significantly tighter and more uniform shot patterns at mid-range distances compared to factory chokes.
- Versatile Performance: Functions effectively with various shot types, including steel, lead, bismuth, TSS, and Hevi-Shot.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality steel, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy Installation: Threads smoothly into Remington 12-gauge shotguns, requiring no specialized tools.
- Improved Accuracy: Enhanced patterns lead to fewer missed shots and cleaner kills.
Cons
- Limited Range: Primarily designed for mid-range distances (20-45 yards), requiring a different choke for longer or shorter shots.
- No Included Wrench: A choke wrench is required for installation and removal, but is not included with the choke tube.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710?
Perfect for: Hunters seeking to improve the performance of their Remington 12-gauge shotguns, particularly for waterfowl and upland bird hunting at mid-range distances. Competitive shooters who need consistent patterns for clay target shooting. Anyone looking for a reliable and versatile choke tube that performs well with various shot types.
Who should skip this product? Shooters who primarily hunt at very short or very long ranges, as this choke tube is optimized for mid-range performance. Those looking for a choke with recoil-reducing features or wad-stripping technology.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A choke wrench is essential for installing and removing the choke tube. A bore cleaning kit is recommended for regular maintenance.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710
The Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 is a worthwhile investment for any Remington 12-gauge shotgun owner seeking to improve their gun’s mid-range performance. The price of $49.99 is justified by the enhanced accuracy, consistent patterns, and durable construction. I would wholeheartedly recommend it.
It’s a simple, effective, and affordable upgrade that can make a significant difference in the field. If you are tired of inconsistent patterns and missed shots, the Carlson’s Mid Range #2 Choke Tube for Remington 12ga .710 is a game-changer. Enhance your shotgun’s performance and get yours today!