EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 Review

The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 Made a Bold First Impression

Turkey hunting, for me, isn’t just a sport; it’s a ritual. Decades spent in the woods have taught me the importance of precision and reliability, especially when that gobbler finally struts into view. I was looking for a choke tube that could consistently deliver tight patterns at extended ranges, something to give me the edge I needed in those tense, early-morning moments.

I received the EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 well-packaged and ready to go. My initial impression was one of solid build quality; the matte black finish looked durable and the machining appeared precise.

I had been using a Briley choke and a Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke prior to this. The Briley provided consistent patterns inside of 30 yards, but lacked punch at longer distances. The Carlson’s, while impressive with the specialized Long Beard shells, wasn’t as versatile with other loads. My hope was that the Head Hunter would bridge that gap. I was definitely excited to put it to the test.

2. ## Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 to the Test
   

   First Use Experience

My first outing with the EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 was during a scouting trip a week before the season opener in the dense hardwoods of Kentucky. I set up a target at 40 yards, using a variety of turkey loads I typically hunt with. The conditions were damp, with a light drizzle, which made for a challenging test of consistency.

The immediate difference I noticed was the pattern density. Even with standard lead loads, the pattern held remarkably tight at 40 yards, far surpassing my expectations. There were no obvious holes or inconsistencies, and the point of impact was dead-on.

The ease of use was also a plus. The Head Hunter screwed in smoothly and securely, without any need for excessive force or special tools. After a few shots, I did notice a slight bit more felt recoil compared to the factory choke, but the improved pattern density more than made up for it.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past few months, the EAR Head Hunter has seen action in various weather conditions, from the early morning frosts of late fall to the humid heat of late spring. It has consistently delivered impressive patterns with various load types. There is no noticeable rust or wear on the choke tube.

Cleaning the Head Hunter is straightforward, requiring just a standard bore brush and solvent after each use. After about 200 rounds, I’ve observed no significant wear or erosion. It remains as effective as the day I first installed it.

Compared to my previous choke tubes, the EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 has been a definite upgrade. While the Briley was excellent for close-range shots and the Carlson’s specialized in a single load, the Head Hunter offers a better balance of range, pattern density, and load versatility. It’s a consistent performer across different scenarios and shell types.

3. ## Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
   

   Specifications

• Caliber: 12 Gauge. This is a standard size, ensuring compatibility with most 12-gauge shotguns.
• Choke constriction: .660. This constriction is optimized for tight, dense patterns at longer ranges, perfect for turkey hunting.
• Compatibility: Benelli Crio Choke System. This makes it suitable for a wide range of Benelli shotguns with the Crio barrel.
• Material: High-quality steel. This ensures durability and longevity, even with frequent use and high-pressure loads.
• Finish: Matte Black. This provides a non-reflective surface, minimizing the risk of spooking game and preventing rust.

These specifications translate directly into enhanced performance in the field. The .660 constriction is the key to creating those tight, consistent patterns that are critical for ethical and successful turkey hunting. The high-quality steel and matte black finish ensure the choke can withstand harsh conditions and heavy use.

Performance & Functionality

The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 performs its primary job – delivering tight, dense patterns – exceptionally well. It extends the effective range of my shotgun, giving me confidence in shots out to 50 yards. The improved pattern density drastically increases the odds of a clean, ethical kill.

One minor weakness is the slightly increased recoil, which is typical of tighter choke constrictions. However, this is a small price to pay for the significant improvement in pattern performance. Overall, it exceeds my expectations, providing consistent results across a variety of loads.

Design & Ergonomics

The Head Hunter features a simple, functional design that prioritizes performance over aesthetics. The matte black finish is both durable and practical, minimizing glare and preventing rust. The choke tube is easy to install and remove, without requiring any special tools or excessive force.

The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a solid, robust feel. While it might not be the most visually striking choke on the market, its performance and reliability are what truly stand out. There is almost no learning curve for it to be user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is built to last. The high-quality steel construction ensures it can withstand the pressures of repeated use with heavy turkey loads. After months of use, there are no signs of wear or erosion.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only a standard bore brush and solvent after each use. With proper care, this choke tube should provide many seasons of reliable performance. Regular cleaning after each trip is important.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is a standalone product and does not come with any additional accessories. No other customization options available directly for the choke itself.

However, the effectiveness of the Head Hunter can be enhanced by pairing it with high-quality turkey loads and a suitable optic. Experimenting with different shell types and brands is essential to find the optimal combination for your shotgun and hunting conditions. Adding a red dot or low-power scope can also improve accuracy at longer ranges.

4. ## Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Benelli Crio 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660