First Thoughts on the EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 choke tube promises tighter patterns and longer-range performance for turkey hunters. In my ten years of experience, I’ve seen countless chokes come and go, each claiming to be the “ultimate” turkey solution. Does this offering from EAR live up to the hype, or is it just another marketing gimmick?
I was looking to extend my effective range on wary gobblers this season. Public land hunting demands precision, and a few extra yards can be the difference between filling a tag and going home empty-handed. Opening the package, the EAR Head Hunter boasts a solid, no-nonsense matte black finish. It felt well-made, and the threads were clean and precise.
Compared to my factory Benelli choke and a competitor’s ported choke, the EAR Head Hunter appeared to have a more complex internal geometry. I chose this choke over others due to the JEBS patented “multi-staged” bore design. The promise of better shot separation intrigued me.
Initial impressions were positive. The choke seemed well-constructed and worth a shot (pun intended). I was cautiously optimistic about its performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 at my local gun range. The weather was typical for spring turkey season: slightly damp and a cool 55 degrees. I used a Benelli Super Black Eagle II with 3-inch, #5 lead turkey loads.
The choke screwed in smoothly and tightened down perfectly. At 40 yards, the patterns were noticeably tighter than my factory choke. There were no obvious gaps or flyers.
The first few shots were impressive. Recoil felt similar to my other chokes, and there were no immediate issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including patterning different loads and a few days in the turkey woods, the EAR Head Hunter has held up well. There are no signs of wear or tear. The matte black finish has proven durable.
Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe-down after each range session keeps it looking new. It has outperformed my expectations.
The consistent patterns at extended ranges have given me more confidence in the field. Compared to previous chokes, this one delivers.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Specifications
- The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is designed for 12-gauge Benelli shotguns with Crio chokes. This ensures a precise fit and optimal performance.
- It features a .660″ exit diameter. This constriction is optimized for tight, long-range patterns.
- The choke boasts a matte black finish. This reduces glare and provides a sleek, tactical look.
- The choke’s internal design uses JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore. This is designed to improve shot and wad separation.
- The product is specifically designed for turkey hunting. It helps to increase the effective range and pattern density.
These specifications directly impact performance. A tighter pattern ensures more pellets on target at longer distances.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 excels at its primary job: delivering tight, dense patterns at extended ranges. Accuracy is significantly improved compared to a factory choke. The choke consistently put more pellets in a 10-inch circle at 40 yards.
The main strength is the pattern density at 40+ yards. The only potential weakness might be that it is too tight for extremely close shots inside 20 yards, where a wider pattern may be preferable. It exceeded my expectations. It consistently produced ethical killing patterns at distances I previously considered outside my comfort zone.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials feel durable, and the matte black finish is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The choke threads smoothly and tightens securely.
It’s user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, and there is no noticeable learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 seems built to last. The steel construction should withstand years of use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options beyond selecting the appropriate choke size for your shotgun. The choke is designed to work with standard 12-gauge turkey loads.
It is compatible with most Benelli Crio-choke-compatible shotguns. Aftermarket choke wrenches can be helpful for installation and removal.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Pros
- Significantly tighter patterns at 40+ yards compared to factory chokes. The JEBS multi-staged design appears to work as advertised.
- Durable matte black finish. It minimizes glare and resists wear and tear.
- Easy to install and maintain. The choke threads smoothly and requires minimal cleaning.
- Increased effective range. It allows for ethical shots at longer distances on wary birds.
- Provides better confidence knowing you have the right tool for the job. It translates to more turkeys in the freezer.
Cons
- Pattern may be too tight for extremely close shots (under 20 yards). This might require switching chokes for specific hunting scenarios.
- Limited customization options. There are no available finishes or extended versions.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660?
This choke is perfect for: Turkey hunters who hunt public land. It’s also ideal for anyone seeking to extend their effective range. This also includes those who simply want tighter, more consistent patterns.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who primarily hunt in dense woods. Those who only take very close-range shots (under 20 yards) may not see a significant benefit.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good choke wrench is recommended. Consider experimenting with different turkey loads to find the optimal combination for your specific shotgun.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters. The improved pattern density at longer ranges provides a clear advantage in the field. The price is justified by the improved performance and increased confidence it provides.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to maximize their shotgun’s potential. For $89.99, this choke is a game-changer. Go forth and bag that longbeard!