Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube for 20 ga Benelli Crio Plus .600 Review

First Thoughts on the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube for 20 ga Benelli Crio Plus .600

The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube for 20 ga Benelli Crio Plus .600 promises tighter patterns and better performance for dove hunters, a claim I intend to rigorously test. With dove season fast approaching, and less than satisfactory results with factory choke tubes in the past, the promise of improved pellet distribution is certainly appealing. This Carlson’s choke tube piqued my interest due to its TST (Triple Shot Technology) and the advertised reduction in recoil, features that could make a significant difference during a long day in the field.

I’ve been chasing doves for over a decade, mostly with a trusty Benelli Legacy, which, while reliable, has always left me wanting more consistent patterns. I’ve tried other aftermarket chokes before, with mixed results, so I’m approaching this Carlson’s offering with cautious optimism. My decision came down to the advertised versatility – its ability to handle steel, lead, Hevi-Shot, and TSS – a crucial consideration given the increasing regulations on shot composition in certain hunting areas. The Carlson’s choke seemed to offer a solution to my pattern consistency problems while remaining adaptable to different hunting locations and shot types.

Upon receiving the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube, I was immediately struck by its solid construction. The 17-4 stainless steel feels robust and well-machined. Weighing it in hand, it feels substantial without being overly heavy, suggesting a good balance of durability and manageability. My initial impression is positive; it seems like a well-made piece of equipment, and I am eager to see how it performs in the field.

Compared to the factory Benelli choke tubes and a previous Briley choke I’ve used, the Carlson’s tube appears to have a more refined porting design. This subtle difference, along with the reputation of Carlson’s choke tubes, led me to choose it over other options from Patternmaster or Trulock. I was also impressed by the clear labeling and the included wrench, suggesting attention to detail that often translates to performance. I am excited to get it installed and patterned to see if it lives up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube for 20 ga Benelli Crio Plus .600 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube during the opening weekend of dove season on a public hunting area known for its challenging conditions. The weather was typical for early September: hot, humid, and dusty. I primarily used Winchester AA Super Sport Sporting Clays loads (7/8 oz, #8 shot) and Federal Premium Gold Medal Grand Paper loads (7/8 oz, #8 shot).

The most noticeable difference immediately was the felt recoil; it was noticeably reduced compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes. I was consistently breaking longer shots that I usually would have passed on, indicating a denser and more consistent pattern. Installation was straightforward, requiring only the included wrench, and the choke tube seated perfectly flush with the barrel of my Benelli Legacy.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of dove hunting and numerous trips to the sporting clays range, the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it, using various shot types, and it continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of wear and tear on the choke tube itself, even after repeated cleanings.

Cleaning is a breeze. A quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition. Compared to some of the ported chokes I’ve used in the past, the Carlson’s tube is relatively easy to clean, with minimal fouling buildup in the ports. This choke tube has certainly outperformed my previous experiences with factory choke tubes, providing tighter, more consistent patterns and noticeably reduced recoil.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube for 20 ga Benelli Crio Plus .600

Specifications

The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube for 20 ga Benelli Crio Plus .600 is specifically designed for 20-gauge Benelli shotguns with the Crio Plus choke system. It features an Improved Modified constriction with a diameter of .600 inches. This choke tube is constructed from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion.

The key feature is Carlson’s exclusive TST (Triple Shot Technology), designed to minimize pellet deformation, resulting in denser patterns and fewer flyers. The extended design and porting are intended to reduce recoil and muzzle jump. Being able to shoot steel, lead, Hevi-Shot, and TSS is a crucial specification, allowing for versatile use in different hunting scenarios and locations.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube excels at its primary job: delivering tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges. I’ve consistently achieved excellent results on doves and sporting clays targets out to 40 yards, a significant improvement over my previous experiences with factory chokes. The ported design effectively reduces recoil and muzzle jump, allowing for faster follow-up shots.

While the improved patterns are a definite strength, the choke tube requires careful load selection to achieve optimal results. Some cheaper shells may not pattern as well, highlighting the importance of using quality ammunition. Overall, the Carlson’s choke tube meets and exceeds my expectations, providing the performance and reliability I need for successful dove hunting.

Design & Ergonomics

The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube boasts a robust and well-machined design. The 17-4 stainless steel construction feels solid and durable, while the extended design allows for easy installation and removal. The porting is strategically placed to reduce recoil without excessive noise or muzzle flash.

The choke tube is user-friendly, requiring only the included wrench for installation and removal. There’s no real learning curve; it’s simply a matter of screwing it in and tightening it down. The flush fit with the barrel enhances the overall aesthetics of the shotgun, while the knurled end provides a secure grip for easy tightening.

Durability & Maintenance

The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube is built to last. The 17-4 stainless steel construction is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring years of reliable use. After hundreds of rounds, there are no signs of damage or degradation.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The smooth internal bore prevents excessive fouling buildup, making cleaning quick and easy. The durable construction and simple maintenance requirements ensure that this choke tube will provide years of reliable performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube comes with a choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal. While there are no direct customization options for the choke tube itself, its compatibility with various shot types allows for customization of loads based on specific hunting conditions and regulations. Using different shot sizes and materials can significantly impact pattern density and range.

The choke tube is compatible with most standard choke tube cases and carriers. Some shooters may choose to add a choke tube selector to their shotgun for quick and easy changes in the field. Beyond these basic accessories, there are no specific aftermarket modifications available for the Carlson’s choke tube.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube for 20 ga Benelli Crio Plus .600

Pros

  • Significantly tighter and more consistent patterns, resulting in longer-range kills.
  • Noticeable reduction in recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and reduced fatigue.
  • Versatile compatibility with steel, lead, Hevi-Shot, and TSS, catering to various hunting regulations.
  • Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
  • Easy to install and maintain, requiring minimal effort.

Cons

  • Requires careful load selection to achieve optimal patterns. Cheaper shells may not perform as well.
  • The Improved Modified constriction may be too tight for close-range shots in some hunting situations.


Who Should Buy Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube for 20 ga Benelli Crio Plus .600?

Perfect for dove hunters, sporting clay shooters, and anyone seeking improved pattern density and reduced recoil with their 20-gauge Benelli Crio Plus shotgun. This choke tube is especially beneficial for hunters who frequently encounter longer shots or who are subject to regulations requiring non-toxic shot. It’s also a great option for shooters looking to upgrade from factory choke tubes and achieve more consistent results.

Those who primarily hunt in close-range situations or prefer a more open pattern may find the Improved Modified constriction too tight. Shooters who are unwilling to invest in quality ammunition may not see the full benefits of this choke tube. If you only shoot at very close ranges, consider a more open choke constriction like Skeet or Improved Cylinder.

A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube case to protect the choke tube when not in use. A choke tube selector can also be a valuable addition for shooters who want to quickly switch between different choke constrictions in the field. Experimenting with different shot sizes and loads is essential to finding the optimal combination for your specific hunting conditions and shooting style.

Conclusion on Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube for 20 ga Benelli Crio Plus .600

The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube for 20 ga Benelli Crio Plus .600 is a worthwhile investment for serious dove hunters and sporting clays enthusiasts. Its tighter patterns, reduced recoil, and versatile shot compatibility make it a significant upgrade over factory choke tubes. The price of $46.99 is more than justified considering the performance gains and durability it offers.

I would highly recommend this choke tube to anyone looking to improve their shooting performance and increase their success in the field. It’s a well-made, reliable, and effective tool that will undoubtedly enhance your hunting experience. So, get out there, pattern your shotgun with different loads, and experience the difference the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Improved Modified Choke Tube can make.


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