First Thoughts on the Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga.
The Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. promises to be a reliable and versatile addition to any Mossberg 835 or 935 shotgun owner’s kit. Carlsons is a reputable name in choke tubes, and the promise of improved patterns with various shot types intrigued me. I was looking for a choke tube that would reliably deliver consistent patterns for both upland bird hunting and the occasional round of sporting clays.
My old factory-issued modified choke for my Mossberg 835 had seen better days. The patterns were inconsistent, especially with steel shot, and I was losing confidence in my shots. The allure of a Carlsons choke, coupled with its compatibility with steel, lead, and Hevi-Shot, was a significant selling point. Many aftermarket chokes exist, but the Carlsons reputation and the fact that it’s made in the USA swayed my decision.
Upon receiving the Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga., I was immediately impressed with the sturdy construction. The stainless steel felt solid and well-machined, offering a significant upgrade over the factory choke. It’s heavier than the original, giving a sense of durability that inspired confidence.
Compared to cheaper, off-brand chokes, the Carlsons option felt like a substantial investment in performance. I had considered a ported choke from another manufacturer, but the simplicity and reliability of the Carlsons design won me over. My initial excitement stemmed from the hope that this choke would tighten my patterns and extend my effective range, particularly for pheasant hunting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. was at a local shooting range. I wanted to pattern the choke with various loads before taking it into the field. The range offered a controlled environment, allowing me to focus solely on pattern density and consistency.
The difference in patterns compared to my old choke was immediately noticeable. Using both lead and steel shot, the Carlsons choke delivered significantly tighter and more uniform patterns at 30 yards. There were no noticeable holes or flyers, which boosted my confidence considerably.
The choke performed flawlessly in the dry, sunny conditions. The ease of installation and removal using a standard choke wrench was also a plus. I experienced no issues with loosening or any other mechanical problems during my first session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. continues to perform admirably. It has become my go-to choke for most upland bird hunting scenarios. The durability of the stainless steel construction is evident; there are no signs of rust or corrosion despite regular exposure to moisture.
The choke has held up exceptionally well to the rigors of field use. From dusty quail hunts to damp pheasant outings, it has consistently delivered reliable performance. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlsons choke has proven to be a significant upgrade. The improved patterns have resulted in cleaner kills and fewer wounded birds. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga.
Specifications
The Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. is specifically designed for Mossberg 835 and 935 Ulti-Mag shotguns. It is a flush-mounted choke tube, meaning it does not extend beyond the end of the barrel. Its construction from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel ensures excellent durability and resistance to corrosion.
The choke is compatible with 12-gauge shotguns chambered for the Ulti-Mag shell length. The Modified constriction provides a balance between tight patterns at longer ranges and sufficient spread for closer targets. The fact that it’s safe for use with steel, lead, and Hevi-Shot significantly increases its versatility.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the choke’s performance and lifespan. The steel compatibility allows for use in areas where lead shot is restricted, while the Modified constriction offers a versatile middle-ground suitable for a wide range of hunting and sporting applications. The durable stainless steel construction guarantees longevity, even with frequent use and exposure to harsh elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. performs its job exceptionally well. It consistently delivers dense, uniform patterns at typical hunting distances. The Modified constriction provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density compared to more open chokes, extending the effective range of my shotgun.
The main strength of this choke is its versatility and reliability. It handles different shot types with equal proficiency, making it a one-stop solution for various hunting scenarios. One minor area for improvement might be the addition of markings to easily identify the constriction without having to remove the choke.
It meets and exceeds my expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in performance over factory-issued chokes. I’ve experienced fewer missed shots and cleaner kills since switching to the Carlsons choke. The increased confidence in my equipment has undoubtedly translated to better results in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. features a simple, functional design. The flush-mounted design ensures it doesn’t snag on brush or clothing. The stainless steel construction provides a robust and corrosion-resistant finish.
The choke is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools for installation or removal. The smooth internal finish helps to prevent shot buildup and ensures consistent performance. There is virtually no learning curve associated with its use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction, the Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide many years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
The choke is relatively easy to maintain. A quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent after each use is sufficient to remove any shot residue. The stainless steel construction resists rust and corrosion, minimizing the risk of long-term damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. is a standalone product and does not come with any included accessories beyond the standard packaging. As a choke tube, its primary function is to modify the shot pattern, and it is not directly customizable in terms of external features.
However, it is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Mossberg shotguns. There are no specific customization options for this particular choke, but it fits seamlessly with other Carlsons chokes in different constrictions, allowing users to fine-tune their patterns based on the game they are hunting. The compatibility with various shot types, including steel and Hevi-Shot, effectively offers a degree of customization in terms of ammunition selection.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga.
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: Delivers tighter and more consistent patterns compared to factory chokes, extending effective range.
- Versatile Shot Compatibility: Safe for use with steel, lead, and Hevi-Shot, making it suitable for various hunting and sporting applications.
- Durable Construction: Made from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel for excellent corrosion resistance and long-term reliability.
- Easy Installation and Maintenance: Simple to install and remove using a standard choke wrench, and easy to clean.
- Reputable Brand: Carlsons is a well-known and respected manufacturer of high-quality choke tubes.
Cons
- Lack of External Markings: Constriction not readily identifiable without removing the choke.
- Slightly Heavier: Noticeably heavier than the factory choke.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga.?
The Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. is perfect for hunters who use a Mossberg 835 or 935 and are looking to improve their shotgun’s pattern density and consistency. It’s also an excellent choice for shooters who need a versatile choke that can handle both lead and steel shot. This choke would be a good fit for upland bird hunters, waterfowl hunters in areas with lead restrictions, and sporting clays enthusiasts seeking tighter patterns.
This product might not be ideal for shooters who primarily engage in close-range shooting, such as turkey hunting in dense cover. Those hunters might prefer a more open choke constriction, such as Cylinder or Improved Cylinder. Those extremely sensitive to weight might not like it as a replacement.
A must-have accessory for this choke is a good quality choke wrench. It’s also beneficial to pattern your shotgun with different loads to determine the optimal ammunition for your specific hunting or shooting needs.
Conclusion on Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga.
Overall, the Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. is an excellent upgrade for any Mossberg 835 or 935 shotgun. Its improved pattern density, versatile shot compatibility, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters and shooters. The price of $28.49 is more than justified given the performance and longevity it offers.
I would personally recommend this choke to anyone looking to enhance their shotgun’s performance. It provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density and consistency, resulting in cleaner kills and fewer missed shots. If you’re ready to take your shooting to the next level, consider adding the Carlsons Mossberg 835/935 Choke Tube Modified 12 ga. to your gear.