The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube for 12 ga Benelli Crio Plus .710 Made a Bold First Impression
Dove season. It’s that magical time of year where the sky fills with feathered rockets, and the smell of gunpowder hangs heavy in the air. This year, I was determined to up my game, seeking a choke tube that would consistently deliver tighter, more effective patterns. My search led me to the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube for 12 ga Benelli Crio Plus .710.
I was experiencing frustratingly inconsistent patterns with my factory choke. Doves were escaping with what seemed like divine intervention. I needed a solution that would extend my effective range without sacrificing pattern density at closer distances. The Carlson’s choke promised just that, piquing my interest with its TST (Triple Shot Technology).
Upon receiving the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the 17-4 stainless steel. The ported design looked aggressive and purposeful. Compared to my factory choke, which felt almost like an afterthought, this tube felt like a serious piece of equipment.
I considered a Briley choke, known for its premium quality, but the price point was considerably higher. I also looked at a Patternmaster choke, intrigued by its wad-stripping design, but I was hesitant about its performance with non-lead shot. Ultimately, the Carlson’s offered a compelling balance of price, features, and compatibility with various shot types.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality seemed excellent, and the claims of improved patterns were enticing. I was eager to get to the range and see if the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube for 12 ga Benelli Crio Plus .710 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlson’s choke was at a local sporting clays range, a good proxy for dove hunting scenarios. The weather was mild with a slight breeze, providing typical conditions. I wanted to gauge the choke’s pattern consistency and effective range.
The improved patterns were immediately noticeable. Clays that I would have chipped with the factory choke were now being consistently broken. The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube seemed to be delivering tighter, more uniform patterns, extending my effective range by several yards.
Installation was simple and straightforward, requiring only a choke tube wrench. No unexpected issues arose during that first session. I cycled through several boxes of shells with varying load sizes and shot types, experiencing no failures to eject or any other malfunctions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full dove season and numerous trips to the range, the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube has proven to be a reliable and durable performer. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The stainless steel construction appears to be holding up well to repeated use and cleaning.
Cleaning the choke tube is a breeze. A quick soak in solvent followed by a scrub with a bore brush keeps it in top condition. I’ve noticed no rust or corrosion, even after hunting in damp conditions.
This choke significantly outperforms my factory choke, consistently delivering tighter, more consistent patterns. I have greater confidence in making longer shots. It has improved my hit rate and reduced the number of crippled birds.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube for 12 ga Benelli Crio Plus .710
Specifications
The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube is specifically designed for 12 gauge Benelli shotguns with the Crio Plus thread pattern. It has a constriction of .710, placing it squarely in the Light Modified range. This provides a versatile balance between pattern density and range.
The tube is constructed from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel, known for its strength and corrosion resistance. Its length is extended beyond the barrel to aid in pattern development and reduce muzzle jump. The inclusion of ports helps to reduce felt recoil.
The choke is compatible with lead, steel, Hevi-Shot, and TSS shot, making it suitable for a wide variety of hunting and shooting applications. This is crucial for hunters who frequent areas with restrictions on lead shot. The choke’s TST (Triple Shot Technology) is designed to minimize pellet deformation for tighter patterns.
These specifications are vital for several reasons. The stainless-steel build guarantees durability in harsh conditions. The Light Modified constriction provides a versatile pattern for various dove hunting distances. The compatibility with all shot types allows the user to hunt anywhere without worrying about restrictions.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube performs its job exceptionally well. It consistently produces tighter, more uniform patterns than a factory choke. This translates to longer effective range and more consistent hits on doves.
One of the choke’s greatest strengths is its versatility. The Light Modified constriction provides a good balance for close-range and longer-range shots. The only potential weakness is that it may not be tight enough for extremely long-range shots (beyond 45 yards).
This choke meets and exceeds my expectations. I was seeking improved pattern density and effective range, and the Carlson’s choke delivers on both fronts. It has improved my dove hunting success.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube is excellent. The stainless steel construction feels robust and durable. The extended and ported design gives the choke a purposeful and aggressive look.
The Carlson’s choke is user-friendly. Installation is simple and straightforward. The choke tube wrench provides a secure grip.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless-steel construction of the Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube indicates it should last for many seasons. The choke shows no signs of wear and tear after extensive use. Its stainless-steel build makes it easy to maintain and corrosion-resistant.
Maintaining the choke is simple. Regular cleaning with solvent and a bore brush will keep it in excellent condition. No special tools or procedures are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube does not come with any accessories beyond the standard packaging. However, it is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Benelli Crio Plus chokes. There aren’t any “modifications” per se, since it is a completed component.
The choke tube itself is the modification. The addition of a quality choke tube significantly enhances the shotgun’s performance. It is compatible with all factory Benelli Crio Plus barrels.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube for 12 ga Benelli Crio Plus .710
Pros
- Noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns.
- Extended effective range for dove hunting.
- Compatible with lead, steel, Hevi-Shot, and TSS shot.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction.
- Ported design reduces recoil and muzzle jump.
Cons
- May not be ideal for extremely long-range shots (beyond 45 yards).
- Slightly more expensive than some basic aftermarket chokes.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube for 12 ga Benelli Crio Plus .710?
The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube is perfect for dove hunters who want to improve their pattern density and extend their effective range. It is also ideal for shooters who use a variety of shot types, including steel and TSS. It is perfect for Benelli shotgun owners using the Crio Plus system.
This product may not be necessary for hunters who primarily shoot at very close range or who are satisfied with their factory choke’s performance. It also isn’t compatible with other shotgun manufacturers. It must be used with a Benelli shotgun that uses the Crio Plus system.
A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory. A quality gun cleaning kit is also recommended to maintain the choke tube and shotgun.
Conclusion on Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube for 12 ga Benelli Crio Plus .710
The Carlson’s White Wing Dove Light Modified Choke Tube for 12 ga Benelli Crio Plus .710 is a worthwhile investment for any serious dove hunter. It delivers noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns. This extends the hunter’s effective range.
At $46.99, the price is justified by the improved performance and durability of the choke tube. Cheaper chokes may not provide the same level of pattern consistency or shot compatibility.
I would absolutely recommend this choke tube to anyone looking to upgrade their Benelli shotgun’s performance for dove hunting. It is a well-built, reliable, and effective product that will help you put more birds in the bag. Upgrade your game and experience the difference.