First Thoughts on the EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660
Turkey hunting. It’s a tradition steeped in patience, skill, and a touch of luck. When you finally get that tom in your sights, you want to ensure your setup is dialed in for maximum effectiveness. That’s where a specialized turkey choke like the EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660 comes into play. For years, I relied on the factory choke in my Benelli, and while I harvested birds, I always felt there was room for improvement in my patterns, especially at longer ranges.
I’d been wrestling with inconsistent patterns using my factory choke, leading to a few frustrating misses and wounded birds. The search for a solution led me down the rabbit hole of aftermarket chokes, and the EAR Head Hunter kept popping up in forums and reviews, lauded for its dense, consistent patterns. The promise of tighter groupings at extended distances was particularly appealing, as it would allow me to ethically take shots I previously wouldn’t have considered.
My first impression upon receiving the choke was positive. The black nitride finish looked extremely durable and provided a non-reflective surface, crucial for avoiding spooking wary birds. The choke had a good weight to it, giving a sense of quality craftsmanship. It felt like a serious piece of gear.
Compared to the factory Benelli choke, the EAR Head Hunter appeared to have a more complex internal design. Looking closely, the difference in the internal geometry was obvious. Others I considered included the Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke and the Indian Creek Black Diamond Strike, both popular options. However, the EAR Head Hunter’s patented “multi-staged” interior bore design, as touted by the JEBS design, seemed particularly promising for improved shot separation and pattern density.
I was definitely excited to see if the EAR Head Hunter would live up to the hype. The potential for tighter patterns and more confident shots in the turkey woods was a prospect worth exploring. I was eager to get it mounted on my Benelli and head to the range for some testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a familiar environment but one that allowed for controlled conditions. I wanted to assess the choke’s performance with various turkey loads, including Winchester Long Beard XR (my go-to), Federal Premium Grand Slam, and some budget-friendly Remington shells. The weather was slightly overcast with a light breeze, typical conditions for a spring turkey hunt.
The EAR Head Hunter was simple to install using a standard choke tube wrench. I started patterning at 40 yards, a common range for turkey engagements. Right away, I noticed a significant improvement in pattern density compared to my factory choke. The Winchester Long Beard XR load, in particular, produced a devastatingly tight and even pattern, with the majority of pellets concentrated within a 10-inch circle. This was a big difference.
The ease of use was straightforward. No special tools were needed beyond a standard choke wrench. The only slight surprise was how much tighter the patterns were than I expected, indicating I might need to adjust my aiming point slightly depending on the range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of testing and using the EAR Head Hunter during actual turkey hunts, I can confidently say it has held up extremely well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the black nitride finish, despite being exposed to mud, rain, and general field abuse. The choke still threads in and out smoothly.
Maintaining the choke is simple. After each use, I remove it, clean it with a bore brush and solvent, and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. This routine maintenance has kept it in perfect working order. It’s straightforward and easy.
In comparison to my previous experiences with the factory choke, the EAR Head Hunter is a clear winner. The patterns are consistently tighter and more predictable, leading to increased confidence and ethical harvests. Where I previously hesitated at longer ranges, I now feel comfortable taking shots out to 50 yards with the EAR Head Hunter and my preferred Winchester Long Beard XR load. It truly outperforms the factory choke.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660
Specifications
The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660 is specifically designed for Benelli shotguns that utilize the Crio choke system. Its key specifications include:
- Caliber: 12 Gauge. This is crucial for compatibility with your shotgun.
- Construction: High-quality steel. Ensures durability and longevity.
- Finish: Black Nitride. Provides excellent corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface.
- Constriction: .660″. Optimized for tight, dense patterns at extended ranges.
- Compatibility: Benelli Crio Choke System. Specifically designed for Benelli Crio barrels.
- Design: JEBS Patented “Multi-Staged” Interior Bore Design. Promotes better shot and wad separation.
These specifications are significant because they directly impact the choke’s performance. The .660″ constriction is a popular choice for turkey hunting, striking a balance between pattern density and shot string length. The Black Nitride finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also adds a layer of protection against the elements, essential for maintaining the choke’s integrity in harsh hunting conditions. And JEBS patented design ensures consistent patterns.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660 excels at its primary job: delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges.
Its strengths lie in its ability to concentrate a large number of pellets within a relatively small area, increasing the odds of a lethal hit on a turkey’s vital areas. The consistent patterns remove much of the guesswork involved in aiming, allowing for more precise shots.
One potential area for improvement might be offering different constriction options to cater to various hunting scenarios and load preferences. While the .660″ is a great all-around choice, some hunters might prefer a slightly tighter or looser constriction for specific situations.
The choke definitely meets and, in many ways, exceeds expectations. The significant improvement in pattern density compared to my factory choke was immediately noticeable.
Design & Ergonomics
The EAR Head Hunter boasts a robust and well-thought-out design. The materials used feel high-quality, and the black nitride finish provides a sleek and durable exterior.
The choke threads smoothly into the barrel and sits flush with the muzzle, creating a seamless appearance. The weight is balanced, not adding unnecessary bulk to the shotgun. There is absolutely no learning curve. Installation and usage are straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its high-quality steel construction and protective black nitride finish, the EAR Head Hunter is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep it in optimal condition. Oiling the threads prevents seizing and ensures smooth installation and removal.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660 doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond its standard packaging. Being a choke tube, its customization options are limited to choosing the appropriate load for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions. The choke is designed to work with a wide variety of 12-gauge turkey loads, offering flexibility in ammunition selection. Some hunters may choose to experiment with different wad types or buffer materials to further fine-tune their patterns.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660
Pros
- Significantly tighter and more consistent patterns compared to factory chokes, leading to increased confidence and ethical harvests.
- Durable black nitride finish for excellent corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface.
- Easy to install and maintain with standard choke tube wrench and basic cleaning supplies.
- JEBS Patented “Multi-Staged” Interior Bore Design for optimal shot and wad separation.
- Extends effective range, allowing for confident shots at longer distances.
Cons
- The fixed .660″ constriction may not be ideal for all hunting situations or load preferences; some hunters might prefer more or less constriction.
- Relatively higher price point compared to some other aftermarket chokes.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660?
The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who are looking to maximize the performance of their Benelli Crio shotgun. If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and want to extend your effective range, this choke is an excellent investment. It’s also ideal for hunters who value quality, durability, and a non-reflective finish.
This choke might not be necessary for casual turkey hunters who only hunt at very close ranges or are satisfied with the performance of their factory choke. Also, those on a very tight budget may want to explore cheaper alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal. Experimenting with different turkey loads is also recommended to find the optimal combination for your shotgun and hunting conditions.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660
The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660 is a high-quality, performance-driven choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter, more consistent patterns.
The price of $89.99 is justified by the noticeable improvement in pattern density, the durable construction, and the confidence it inspires in the field. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, the EAR Head Hunter offers excellent value for serious turkey hunters.
I would absolutely recommend the EAR Head Hunter to anyone looking to upgrade their Benelli Crio shotgun for turkey hunting. If you want more confidence in your shots and increase your odds of a successful hunt, this choke is a worthwhile investment. Take your turkey hunting to the next level! Upgrade to the EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .660 today!