The Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Made a Bold First Impression
Turkey hunting. It’s not just a sport, it’s a ritual, a test of patience, and a dance with nature. To succeed, you need the right tools, and the shotgun choke is a critical piece of that puzzle. I’ve spent years chasing gobblers across various terrains, constantly searching for that perfect pattern density at extended ranges.
What really drove me to explore the Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless was the desire for a choke that could consistently deliver tight, dense patterns with a variety of loads. The promise of improved range and pattern density without sacrificing reliability was extremely appealing.
Unboxing the Carlsons choke, the first thing I noticed was the heft and solid feel of the stainless steel. The matte blue finish looked durable and non-reflective, which is crucial when trying to remain concealed from wary birds. The overall build quality appeared excellent.
Compared to my previous choke, a ported model from a different manufacturer, the Carlsons felt less bulky. I’d also considered a competitor’s extended choke, but the positive reviews and the Carlsons reputation for quality persuaded me to give it a try.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It seemed like a well-made choke, but the real test would be how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was a local shooting range. The goal was to pattern the Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless with various turkey loads, ranging from standard lead to heavier-than-lead options like Hevi-Shot. Conditions were clear and sunny, with a slight breeze.
The Carlsons choke performed admirably, consistently producing tight, dense patterns at 40 yards with both lead and Hevi-Shot loads. There was an immediate and noticeable improvement in pattern density compared to the factory choke that came with my Winchester 12 gauge. Recoil felt slightly more pronounced, but the enhanced pattern density was worth the trade-off.
The only minor issue I encountered was a slightly tighter fit when installing the choke. After applying a bit of choke tube lubricant, it threaded in smoothly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of range testing and a full turkey season in the Missouri Ozarks, the Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless has held up remarkably well. It has been subjected to diverse weather conditions, from early morning frost to midday heat and even a few drizzly days.
The choke shows no signs of rust or corrosion, and the matte blue finish has proven to be remarkably durable. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a brass brush and some solvent keeps it in top condition. It has consistently provided tight patterns and proven to be a reliable piece of gear.
Compared to a previous aftermarket choke I used that began to show wear after a season, the Carlsons clearly outperforms in terms of durability and consistent performance. The investment in higher-quality materials seems to have paid off.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless
Specifications
The Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless is specifically designed for Winchester 12 gauge shotguns with the Invector choke system. It is constructed from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion. The choke tube extends approximately 1″ beyond the end of the barrel.
The internal parallel section measures 1.050″, which is engineered to optimize pattern density and consistency with various turkey loads. The matte blue finish reduces glare and enhances concealment in the field. This choke is designed specifically for turkey hunting and provides consistent patterns at longer ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless excels in its primary function: delivering tight, consistent patterns for ethical and effective turkey hunting. The choke’s ability to consistently produce dense patterns at extended ranges gives hunters confidence in their shot placement. There are no noticeable weaknesses in its performance.
The choke meets and even exceeds expectations in terms of pattern density and reliability. Its consistent performance in the field inspires confidence when that big tom finally struts into range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlsons choke is designed with a focus on functionality and durability. The 17-4 heat treated stainless steel construction gives it a solid and robust feel, inspiring confidence in its longevity. The matte blue finish is practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Installation is straightforward, though a choke tube wrench is recommended for proper tightening. There is no steep learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Built from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel, the Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless is built to last. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure its continued performance for many seasons to come.
Maintenance involves simply removing the choke after each use (or periodically), cleaning it with a solvent, and applying a light coat of choke tube lubricant before re-installing. The choke’s simple design and robust construction make repairs unlikely.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless comes as a standalone choke tube. There are no additional accessories included.
While there are no specific customization options directly related to the choke itself, the user can experiment with different turkey loads to find the optimal pattern for their specific shotgun and hunting conditions. It is compatible with any Winchester 12 gauge shotgun designed for Invector chokes.
Pros and Cons of Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless
Pros
- Excellent Pattern Density: Consistently delivers tight, dense patterns at extended ranges.
- Durable Construction: Made from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel construction resists rust and corrosion.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple design makes cleaning and maintenance straightforward.
- Improved Range: Allows for ethical shots at longer distances.
Cons
- Tighter Fit: May require extra effort and lubricant during initial installation.
- Recoil: Might slightly increase perceived recoil, depending on the load used.
Who Should Buy Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless?
The Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand consistent, tight patterns at extended ranges. It’s also ideal for those who hunt in various weather conditions, as the stainless-steel construction ensures reliability and corrosion resistance. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade from a factory choke and improve their turkey hunting success.
Hunters who primarily hunt in very close range situations (inside of 20 yards) might not see as much benefit from this choke, as its tight patterns could be too small at those distances. Hunters overly sensitive to recoil should also consider other options.
A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal. High-quality choke tube lubricant is also essential for smooth threading and corrosion prevention. Experimenting with different turkey loads to find the optimal pattern is highly recommended.
Conclusion on Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless
The Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless is a well-built, reliable, and effective choke tube that significantly improves pattern density and range for turkey hunters. Its durable construction and consistent performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters.
At $35.99, the price is more than justified considering the improved performance and the longevity of the choke. It is a small investment that can make a big difference in the field.
I would absolutely recommend the Carlsons Winchester 12 Gauge Turkey Invector 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless to any turkey hunter looking to enhance their shotgun’s performance and increase their chances of success. Don’t just take my word for it; experience the difference for yourself. Get yours today and get ready to put some gobblers on the ground!