First Thoughts on the Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full
The Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full promises a reliable and straightforward upgrade for any Remington 12-gauge shotgun owner looking to tighten their shot pattern. Carlson’s choke tubes are well-regarded for their consistent performance and durable construction, making them a popular choice. My interest in this particular choke tube stemmed from a desire to improve the performance of my aging Remington 870 for waterfowl hunting. I’ve found that consistent patterns are essential for ethical and effective hunting.
I’d been using a modified choke that came standard with the shotgun. However, I consistently felt like my effective range was limited, especially on those longer shots where birds flared just outside my comfort zone. The promise of a Full choke, with its tighter constriction, seemed like a logical solution to extend my effective range. Upon receiving the choke tube, I was immediately impressed with its clean finish and solid feel. The stainless steel construction gave me confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of a duck blind and the corrosive effects of steel shot.
Compared to the factory choke tubes I’ve used in the past, the Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full felt more substantial. I’ve used cheaper, aftermarket chokes that felt almost flimsy by comparison. I chose this Carlson’s choke over similar offerings from Briley or Patternmaster, primarily due to its reputation for consistent patterns and its reasonable price point. My first impression was one of quiet confidence. This choke tube looked like it would deliver on its promise of improved performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full to my local sporting clays range to pattern it. I wanted to see how it performed with various loads before heading out for a hunt. The weather was typical for early spring: a bit breezy and slightly damp. It was perfect for simulating real-world hunting conditions. Installation was a breeze; the choke tube screwed in smoothly and seated perfectly flush with the barrel.
The difference in pattern density compared to my old modified choke was immediately noticeable. At 30 yards, the Full choke delivered a significantly tighter pattern. There were far fewer gaps in the shot distribution. However, I quickly realized that the Full choke was probably too tight for closer-range clays. This reinforces the need to select the appropriate choke for the target and distance.
There were no issues with the choke tube loosening or exhibiting any other problems during the initial testing. I was shooting standard 2 ¾ inch target loads and was pleased with the overall performance and lack of issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use at the range and a couple of duck hunting trips, the Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full continues to perform reliably. The choke tube still looks and functions as new. There are no signs of wear and tear despite being exposed to mud, rain, and regular cleaning. I’ve been meticulous about cleaning the choke after each use. I use a choke tube wrench and a bore brush to remove any fouling and prevent corrosion.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket choke tubes, the Carlsons choke is far superior in terms of durability and pattern consistency. The cheap, unbranded choke tubes I’ve used in the past tended to rust easily and often produced inconsistent patterns. The Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full has exceeded my expectations. It has proven to be a reliable and effective addition to my Remington 870.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full
Specifications
Fits: Remington. This choke tube is specifically designed for Remington 12-gauge shotguns that utilize the Rem Choke system. This ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance.
Gauge: 12. This choke tube is intended for 12-gauge shotguns only. Using it with a different gauge firearm would be dangerous.
Type: Flush. The flush-mounted design means the choke tube sits even with the end of the shotgun barrel. This minimizes snagging and protects the choke tube from damage.
Constriction: Full. A Full choke provides a tight shot pattern, ideal for longer-range shots. This constriction is well-suited for hunting waterfowl or turkey at distances beyond 30 yards.
Diameter: .700. The .700-inch diameter represents the internal diameter of the choke tube at its narrowest point. This tight constriction is what creates the dense shot pattern associated with a Full choke.
These specifications are crucial for understanding the performance characteristics of this choke tube. The Full constriction is designed to hold the shot column together longer, extending the effective range of the shotgun. The stainless steel construction ensures that this performance remains consistent over time, even with frequent use and exposure to harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full excels at its primary job: delivering a tight and consistent shot pattern at longer ranges. This is especially beneficial for hunting scenarios where ethical and effective shots at greater distances are required. The choke performs admirably, provided the shooter understands its limitations.
Its strength lies in its ability to extend the effective range of a 12-gauge shotgun. However, it is essential to remember that a Full choke is not ideal for close-range targets. The tighter pattern can result in missed shots at close distances due to the smaller spread.
The performance of the Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full has met my expectations. It has consistently provided the tighter patterns I was looking for, allowing me to take longer shots with confidence.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full features a simple, functional design. The stainless steel construction is robust and corrosion-resistant. The flush-mounted design ensures that the choke tube does not protrude beyond the end of the barrel. This helps to prevent snagging and damage.
The choke tube is easy to install and remove using a standard choke tube wrench. There is no learning curve associated with its use. The Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full is a user-friendly accessory.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full ensures excellent durability. This choke tube is built to withstand the harsh conditions often encountered during hunting and shooting activities. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain optimal performance and prevent corrosion.
With proper care, the Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full should last for many years. The durability and ease of maintenance make it a worthwhile investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full itself does not come with any accessories beyond basic packaging. However, several accessories can enhance its use. A choke tube wrench is essential for installing and removing the choke tube without damaging it. Choke tube cases are also helpful for storing and protecting choke tubes when they are not in use.
Since this choke tube is a standard Rem Choke thread, it is compatible with a wide array of aftermarket choke wrenches. This choke is not designed for any specific accessory except for the appropriate wrench needed to install and remove it from the shotgun.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full
Pros
- Tight and Consistent Patterns: Delivers a dense shot pattern at longer ranges, improving accuracy and effectiveness.
- Durable Construction: Made from corrosion-resistant 17-4 ph stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Simple to install and remove using a standard choke tube wrench.
- Flush-Mounted Design: Minimizes snagging and protects the choke tube from damage.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for various hunting applications, including waterfowl and turkey.
Cons
- Not Ideal for Close Ranges: The tight pattern can be too restrictive for close-range targets.
- Requires Regular Cleaning: Proper maintenance is essential to prevent corrosion and ensure optimal performance.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full?
The Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full is perfect for hunters seeking to extend their effective range. Waterfowl and turkey hunters will especially benefit from the tighter patterns. It is also a great choice for sporting clays enthusiasts looking to improve their scores on longer-range targets.
This choke tube is not suitable for beginners who are still learning the basics of shotgun shooting. The tight pattern can be unforgiving, making it difficult to hit close-range targets. This choke tube is also not appropriate for upland bird hunting. The pattern is generally too tight for the shorter distances typical of that sport.
A must-have accessory is a dedicated choke tube wrench. It is also good to have a quality bore cleaner and lubricant for proper maintenance.
Conclusion on Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full
The Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full is a well-made and effective choke tube. It delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and extended range. The stainless steel construction ensures durability. The easy installation and flush-mounted design make it a user-friendly accessory.
The price is justified by the quality of materials and the performance benefits. It’s a worthwhile investment for serious hunters and shooters. I would definitely recommend the Carlsons Remington Flush Choke Tube 12 Gauge, Full to anyone looking to improve their shotgun’s performance at longer ranges. Upgrade your Remington 12-gauge today and experience the difference a Full choke can make!