First Thoughts on the Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke
The Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke promises devastating downrange patterns for the dedicated predator hunter. This choke tube is designed to maximize the effectiveness of larger shot sizes at extended ranges, a crucial consideration when targeting elusive coyotes. I’ve been chasing coyotes in the high desert for over a decade, often frustrated by inconsistent patterns with factory chokes. My quest for a tighter, more reliable pattern at longer distances is what led me to the Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke.
Upon receiving the choke, I immediately noticed its solid construction. It felt significantly more robust than the factory choke tubes I’ve used previously. The black finish is clean and seems durable, suggesting it will hold up well against the harsh elements. I considered a similar choke from Patternmaster, but ultimately chose the Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke due to its more focused design for larger shot and the very competitive price point of $51.99. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if it lived up to its claims in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke came during a coyote hunting trip in eastern Oregon. The landscape is vast and open, requiring shots at longer distances. The weather was dry and dusty, with a slight breeze. I primarily used a Remington 870, a shotgun I’ve trusted for years, loaded with 3-inch magnum shells containing #4 Buckshot.
The choke tube was easy to install, screwing in smoothly and securely. At 40 yards, the patterns were noticeably tighter than with my improved cylinder choke. There were no gaping holes, and the majority of the shot was concentrated in a 20-inch circle. This initial test gave me a surge of confidence in the Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my hunting setup. I’ve used it in various weather conditions, including light rain and freezing temperatures. There are no signs of rust or corrosion. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in excellent condition.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke delivers significantly improved pattern consistency at longer ranges. The difference in performance, especially beyond 40 yards, is remarkable. While other chokes produced patterns that were often too spread out for ethical shots on coyotes, this choke tube provides the density needed for clean kills at extended distances.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke
Specifications
The Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns with Remington choke threads. It is a “Coyote” designated choke, signifying its specialized constriction for tight patterns with larger shot sizes. The choke is finished in a durable black coating. It is designed for use with lead T and Buckshot loads. It is not for use with steel shot.
This choke’s designation is key: it’s built for maximizing the density of larger shot at ranges where standard chokes falter. The black finish is a practical touch, preventing glare and resisting corrosion in demanding hunting environments. The restriction against steel shot is critical to observe, as using steel shot can damage the choke tube.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke excels in delivering tight, consistent patterns with T and buckshot loads. Its primary strength lies in its ability to extend the effective range of these loads for coyote hunting. It minimizes the number of flyers and ensures a dense, lethal pattern at distances exceeding 40 yards. The only potential weakness is its specialization; it’s not as versatile as a more open choke for closer-range upland bird hunting.
The choke meets, and in many ways exceeds, expectations for its intended purpose. My hit percentage on coyotes at longer ranges has significantly increased. This performance boost makes it a valuable tool for any serious predator hunter.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke is constructed from high-quality steel. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable difference to the shotgun’s balance. The external finish is smooth and non-reflective, enhancing concealment. It has a user-friendly design and threads directly into any Remington-compatible shotgun without requiring any special tools.
The build quality is exceptional. The choke feels solid and well-made. There is no play or wobble when installed correctly. The ease of installation is a major plus, allowing for quick choke changes in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke is built to withstand the rigors of hunting. The steel construction and durable finish ensure longevity, even with frequent use in harsh conditions. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s required to maintain its performance. With proper care, this choke should last for many seasons.
The materials and finish suggest a long lifespan. Its simple design also reduces the likelihood of mechanical failures. The low maintenance requirements are a definite advantage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke does not come with any additional accessories. There are no specific customization options for the choke itself beyond potentially applying a camouflage wrap for enhanced concealment. However, it’s compatible with any Remington 12-gauge shotgun, allowing you to use other accessories like slings, sights, and shell carriers from various brands to complement its performance.
The lack of included accessories is not a significant drawback. The choke’s primary function is pattern enhancement. The compatibility with standard Remington-style shotguns and accessories is a definite plus.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns with T and Buckshot loads.
- Extends the effective range for ethical coyote hunting.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple installation and easy maintenance.
- Competitively priced compared to similar high-performance choke tubes.
Cons
- Not suitable for steel shot, limiting its versatility for some waterfowl hunting applications.
- Specialized constriction may not be ideal for close-range hunting scenarios.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke?
The Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke is perfect for serious coyote hunters who prioritize long-range accuracy and devastating patterns. It is ideal for hunters using Remington 12-gauge shotguns and relying on larger shot sizes like T or Buckshot. It’s also a great fit for predator hunters who need a reliable and durable choke tube to withstand harsh conditions.
Hunters who primarily use steel shot for waterfowl or who primarily hunt at very close ranges should skip this product. It is also not recommended for those who want a single, versatile choke for all hunting situations. A must-have accessory to complement the Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke would be a high-quality rangefinder to accurately determine distances when setting up for a shot.
Conclusion on Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke
The Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke is a highly effective and well-built choke tube that delivers on its promise of tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges. Its specialized design makes it an invaluable tool for serious coyote hunters using Remington 12-gauge shotguns.
The price of $51.99 is more than justified given the significant improvement in pattern density and effective range it provides. I would personally recommend it to any coyote hunter looking to maximize their shotgun’s performance. If you’re serious about predator hunting and need a choke that can deliver lethal patterns at longer distances, the Carlsons Remington 12 Gauge Coyote Rem Choke is a worthwhile investment. Step up your game and experience the difference a quality choke can make.