First Thoughts on the Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full
The Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full promises to bring modern materials and manufacturing techniques to the age-old art of shotgun patterning. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless choke tubes come and go, each claiming to offer superior performance. What sets this one apart is Diana’s focus on durability and reduced plastic buildup – a common frustration for high-volume shooters.
For years, I’ve struggled with inconsistent patterns, especially with cheaper bulk ammunition. My search for a choke tube that could consistently deliver tight, reliable patterns for both hunting and target shooting led me to the Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full. This choke promised enhanced durability and reduced plastic fouling which would translate into better and more consistent performance.
Out of the box, the Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full feels solid and well-made. The stainless steel construction inspires confidence, and the extended design provides a convenient grip for easy installation and removal. Compared to a standard flush-mounted choke or even a competitor’s ported choke, this one has a more substantial feel.
I ultimately chose the Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full over Carlson’s Cremator or a Briley Spectrum choke because of Diana’s specific claim of minimized plastic wad buildup and the promise of consistent full choke performance at an affordable price point. Initial impressions are positive; the choke looks and feels like a quality piece of equipment. I’m eager to see if it lives up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full was at my local sporting clays range. I used it with a Benelli Super Black Eagle II, shooting both 2 ¾” and 3″ shells with varying shot sizes (from #7.5 to #4). Installation was straightforward, requiring no special tools thanks to the extended design.
Performance in dry conditions was immediately noticeable. The Full choke delivered a tighter pattern at 40 yards compared to the modified choke I usually use, breaking clays with authority. There were no signs of loosening or vibration during extended use during the day with over 100 shells fired.
I did not need much time to get used to the Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full. The extended design actually aided in quick choke swaps between rounds. A notable surprise was the reduced felt recoil, possibly due to the slightly longer barrel extension.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve used it in various conditions, from hot, dry summer days at the range to cold, damp mornings during duck season. The choke consistently provides tight patterns, even with different ammunition types.
Durability has been excellent. The Titanium Nitride surface shows no signs of wear or corrosion, despite frequent cleaning and exposure to the elements. Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe with a bore brush and solvent after each use keeps it clean and prevents any significant plastic buildup.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper choke tubes, the Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full is a significant upgrade. It consistently delivers better patterns, is easier to clean, and shows no signs of degradation. It has definitely exceeded my expectations, becoming my go-to choke for situations where I need a tight, reliable pattern.
Breaking Down the Features of Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full
Specifications
The Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full is specifically designed for 12 gauge shotguns utilizing the Invector-Plus choke system. It is constructed from stainless steel bar stock, heat treated for strength and durability. The choke’s surface is coated with Titanium Nitride, achieving a hardness rating of 72RC for enhanced wear resistance.
The extended design allows for easy installation and removal without tools. Being a Full choke means that it constricts the shot pattern the most, delivering tighter groupings at longer ranges. These specifications are crucial for achieving consistent performance and long-term durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full excels in delivering tight and consistent patterns at longer distances. This makes it ideal for hunting applications like turkey or waterfowl where a precise shot is critical. The Titanium Nitride coating helps minimize plastic wad buildup, a common issue with standard chokes, leading to more consistent patterns over extended shooting sessions.
Its strengths include its tight pattern, ease of use, and exceptional durability. A minor weakness is that, as a Full choke, it is not ideal for close-range shooting where a more open pattern is desired. It meets and exceeds expectations for those seeking a high-quality, durable choke for long-range accuracy.
Design & Ergonomics
The Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full boasts a simple, yet effective design. Its stainless steel construction and extended length give it a solid, high-quality feel. The extended design also provides a convenient grip for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands.
The choke is exceptionally user-friendly. Installing and removing the choke is a breeze, requiring no special tools or complicated procedures. The choke’s intuitive design and ease of use make it accessible to shooters of all experience levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full is built to last. The stainless steel construction and Titanium Nitride coating provide exceptional resistance to wear, corrosion, and erosion. With proper care, this choke should last for many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that is needed to keep the choke in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full does not come with any additional accessories, focusing on core performance. Being an Invector-Plus choke, it is compatible with any shotgun that utilizes that system. No further customization is offered.
Pros and Cons of Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The stainless steel construction and Titanium Nitride coating ensure long-lasting performance, even under harsh conditions.
- Tight, Consistent Patterns: The Full choke constriction delivers exceptional accuracy at longer ranges.
- Reduced Plastic Buildup: The Titanium Nitride surface minimizes plastic wad fouling, maintaining pattern consistency.
- Easy Installation & Removal: The extended design provides a convenient grip for quick and easy choke changes.
- Affordable Price: Great performance and durability at a competitive price point.
Cons
- Not ideal for close-range shooting due to tight pattern.
- No included accessories.
Who Should Buy Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full?
Perfect for: Hunters targeting waterfowl, turkey, or other game requiring long-range accuracy. This choke is also suitable for sporting clay shooters looking to tighten their patterns for breaking distant targets.
Who should skip this product? Those primarily shooting close-range targets like upland birds (quail, pheasant) would benefit more from a more open choke like Skeet or Improved Cylinder.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good quality choke tube wrench (though not essential due to the extended design) and bore cleaning kit are recommended for optimal maintenance.
Conclusion on Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full
The Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full is a solid performer that delivers on its promise of durability and consistent patterns. Its high-quality construction, combined with the Titanium Nitride coating, ensures long-lasting performance and reduced plastic fouling. While a Full choke is not ideal for every situation, it excels in applications where long-range accuracy is paramount.
At $52.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and craftsmanship. I would definitely recommend the Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full to any shooter looking for a reliable and affordable upgrade to their shotgun’s performance.
If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and frustrating plastic buildup, give the Diana Grade Extended Choke Tube 12 Gauge Full a try. You might be surprised at the difference it makes.