The Choke Tube Lube Made a Bold First Impression
The world of shotgun chokes can be a frustrating place, especially when dealing with stubborn tubes that refuse to budge after a long day at the range or in the field. That’s what drew me to the Tetra Choke Tube Lubricant. A promise of easier cleaning, reduced wear, and the elimination of seized choke tubes is a siren song to any serious shotgunner.
My frustrations with stuck chokes, particularly after using steel shot for waterfowl or pushing heavy turkey loads through tight constrictions, reached a boiling point last season. I was tired of wrestling with a choke wrench, fearing I’d damage the tube or receiver threads. So, when I saw the Tetra Choke Tube Lubricant, boasting its fluoropolymer penetrating action, I had to give it a try.
Upon receiving the Tetra Choke Tube Lubricant, I was immediately impressed by its simple, no-nonsense packaging. The .25 oz tube is small, but promises to go a long way. The grease has a firm, yet easily spreadable consistency, giving the initial impression of a high-quality product.
Compared to other products I’ve used, such as general-purpose gun oils or even some dedicated gun greases, the Tetra product feels different. It has a tackiness that suggests it will stay put and withstand the rigors of repeated firing. I chose Tetra over others because of its specific claim to prevent seizing even with steel shot, a common culprit in choke tube woes. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; could this small tube finally solve a recurring problem?
Real-World Testing: Putting Choke Tube Lube to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test involved several shotguns, including a 12-gauge used primarily for sporting clays and a 20-gauge dedicated to upland bird hunting. I applied a thin layer of the Choke Tube Lube to the threads of each choke tube before installing them. My first use was at the local sporting clays range.
The weather was typical for a late summer afternoon: hot, humid, and dusty. After firing about 100 rounds through the 12-gauge, I removed the choke tubes with ease. They practically slid out. This was a marked improvement compared to previous sessions.
I experienced no issues after the first use and I was surprised by the ease of choke tube removal. It was a very positive start.
Extended Use & Reliability
Several weeks and hundreds of rounds later, including a dove hunt in even drier and dustier conditions, the Choke Tube Lube continues to perform admirably. The choke tubes, regardless of gauge or load, still come out smoothly after each shooting session. There are no signs of galling or binding, even after extended periods of time between cleaning.
I haven’t noticed any signs of wear and tear on the choke tubes themselves, likely due to the lubricant minimizing friction. The Tetra product is easy to maintain; simply reapply a thin coat after cleaning the choke tubes. Compared to my previous experiences of struggling with stuck chokes, the Tetra Choke Tube Lubricant has been a revelation.
Breaking Down the Features of Choke Tube Lube
Specifications
The Tetra Choke Tube Lubricant comes in a .25 oz tube. It is described as a fluoropolymer penetrating heavy-duty grease lubricant.
This specific formulation is crucial for its function: the fluoropolymer provides a durable, low-friction barrier, while the penetrating action ensures it reaches all critical thread surfaces. The small tube size is economical, as only a small amount is needed for each application.
Performance & Functionality
The Tetra Choke Tube Lubricant excels at its primary job: preventing choke tubes from seizing and easing cleaning. The smooth choke tube removal is consistent, even after heavy use with various loads.
The strengths of the product are its effectiveness and ease of use. There are no noticeable weaknesses, except perhaps the small tube size might be perceived as a limitation by those who frequently change chokes. It meets and exceeds expectations, delivering on its promises.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tetra Choke Tube Lubricant is a simple grease in a tube, so design and ergonomics are minimal. The grease itself is thick enough to stay in place during application, but thin enough to spread evenly.
The container is user-friendly, allowing for easy dispensing of small amounts. There’s no learning curve involved; it’s a straightforward application.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper application, the Tetra Choke Tube Lubricant should last a considerable time. The fluoropolymer formula is resistant to heat and pressure, ensuring it remains effective even under demanding conditions.
Maintenance is simple: clean the choke tubes and threads, then reapply a thin layer of Tetra before reinstallation. There are no special tools or procedures required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Choke Tube Lube itself doesn’t come with accessories, nor does it require them. However, it is compatible with all standard choke tubes and doesn’t interfere with any shotgun accessories, such as extended choke tubes or recoil pads. There are no specific customization options beyond the selection of appropriate choke tubes for the desired application.
Pros and Cons of Choke Tube Lube
Pros
- Effectively prevents choke tube seizing, even with steel shot.
- Significantly eases cleaning of choke tubes and threads.
- Reduces wear and tear on choke tubes and receiver threads.
- Simple and easy to apply.
- A small amount goes a long way, making it economical.
Cons
- The tube size (.25oz) may seem small to some users, though it’s generally sufficient.
- Requires reapplication after each cleaning.
Who Should Buy Choke Tube Lube?
Tetra Choke Tube Lubricant is perfect for any shotgun owner who regularly changes their choke tubes, especially those who shoot steel shot or heavy buffered loads. Hunters, sporting clays enthusiasts, and tactical shotgun users will all benefit from its ability to prevent seizing and ease cleaning.
Anyone who doesn’t regularly change their choke tubes or uses only lead shot may not find it as essential. A must-have accessory would be a good quality choke tube wrench for initial installation and removal, especially before applying the Choke Tube Lube.
Conclusion on Choke Tube Lube
The Tetra Choke Tube Lubricant is a small but mighty product that delivers on its promises. It has eliminated my frustration with stuck choke tubes and made cleaning my shotguns a much easier process.
At $7.49, the price is more than justified for the peace of mind and improved performance it provides. I would absolutely recommend Choke Tube Lube to any shotgun owner looking to protect their investment and simplify their shooting experience. Don’t let stuck chokes ruin your day at the range or in the field; grab a tube of Tetra and experience the difference!