Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube
The Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube promises to transform your smooth-bore shotgun into a slug-slinging machine. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this accessory aims to tighten your shot patterns and improve accuracy at both short and long distances. I’ve spent years in the field, and the promise of improved slug accuracy from a shotgun has always intrigued me, especially when hunting in areas where rifles are restricted.
My search for the Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube began with frustratingly inconsistent slug groupings from my trusty 12-gauge during deer season. I needed a reliable solution that wouldn’t require purchasing a dedicated rifled slug barrel. The first impression upon unboxing was positive; the tube felt solid and well-machined.
Comparing it to a standard smooth bore choke and even a ported turkey choke, the rifling was immediately noticeable, promising a different level of projectile control. I chose the Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube over a fully rifled barrel due to its versatility and lower cost. I was excited to see if it lived up to the accuracy claims, but a little skeptical, given my experience with other “accuracy-enhancing” shotgun accessories.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local shooting range. The range offered distances from 25 to 100 yards, perfect for evaluating the Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube’s performance. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions to eliminate environmental factors.
Using both foster and sabot slugs, I immediately noticed a difference in recoil and sound compared to shooting with a standard modified choke. The groups at 50 yards were noticeably tighter than what I had previously experienced, which was a pleasant surprise. No initial issues were noted during the first 20 rounds fired; installation and removal were also straightforward with the included wrench.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a full deer season, the Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of significant wear or tear, and the matte black finish remains largely intact. Cleaning the tube after each range session or hunting trip is simple, requiring only standard solvent and a bore brush.
Compared to my previous attempts at slug hunting with a smooth-bore shotgun, the Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube significantly outperformed expectations. The difference in accuracy and consistency has been night and day.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube
Specifications
The Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube is manufactured from 304 high stress stainless steel. It protrudes .625 to 1.3 inches from the end of the barrel, depending on the specific shotgun model. Each tube features a right-hand rifle twist of 1 in 35, with a groove diameter of .730 of an inch in the 12-gauge version.
These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the spin imparted on the slug, which stabilizes its flight and improves accuracy. The stainless-steel construction ensures durability, while the specific twist rate is optimized for common slug weights.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube excels at tightening shot patterns and enhancing slug accuracy. My testing showed a significant improvement in group sizes at 50 and 75 yards compared to using a standard choke. The strengths lie in its ability to effectively stabilize slugs, leading to more consistent and predictable shots.
The only potential weakness might be the inability to shoot steel shot through it, as the rifling could be damaged. It definitely exceeds expectations for a simple choke tube replacement.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube is impressive. The stainless steel construction feels solid and durable. The matte black finish provides a non-reflective surface, which is beneficial in hunting situations.
Installation is straightforward, requiring only the included choke wrench. There’s no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube’s stainless steel construction promises long-term durability. Regular cleaning after use is essential to prevent fouling and maintain optimal performance. Simple cleaning with standard shotgun bore cleaning supplies is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube comes with a choke wrench for easy installation and removal. There are no specific customization options for the tube itself, but its compatibility with various shotgun models makes it versatile. It’s compatible with most standard choke tube systems, allowing for use in a wide range of shotguns.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube
Pros
- Significantly improves slug accuracy in smooth bore shotguns.
- Durable stainless-steel construction ensures longevity.
- Easy to install and remove with included choke wrench.
- Provides versatility by allowing slug shooting without a dedicated rifled barrel.
- More cost-effective than purchasing a new rifled slug barrel.
Cons
- Not suitable for steel shot due to potential damage to the rifling.
- May require experimenting with different slug types for optimal accuracy in your specific shotgun.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube?
The Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube is perfect for hunters who need to use slugs in areas where rifles are restricted. It is also great for shotgun enthusiasts looking to improve their slug accuracy without investing in a dedicated rifled barrel. It’s also suitable for tactical shooters wanting more versatility from their shotgun.
Those who primarily shoot steel shot or require extreme long-range accuracy (beyond 100 yards) might want to explore other options. A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench and a reliable bore cleaning kit.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube
Overall, the Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube is an excellent addition to any shotgun owner’s arsenal. It significantly improves slug accuracy in smooth bore shotguns without the need for expensive modifications. The price is definitely justified by the performance and versatility it provides.
I would absolutely recommend the Carlson’s Rifled Choke Tube to anyone looking to enhance their shotgun’s capabilities. Get yours today and experience the difference!