First Thoughts on the EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .655
Turkey hunting isn’t just a hobby; it’s an obsession. The thrill of the hunt, the outsmarting of a wary bird, and the satisfaction of a successful spring morning are unparalleled. But success hinges on preparation, and a crucial element of that is optimizing your shotgun for tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges. That’s where the EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .655 choke tube enters the picture.
For years, I’ve been chasing gobblers with a variety of chokes, always searching for that sweet spot of pattern density and range. The promise of JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design piqued my interest, offering a potential edge in achieving those coveted tight patterns at longer distances. When I first heard about the EAR Head Hunter, I was excited to try it out.
The EAR Head Hunter arrived in simple packaging. My initial impression was positive, noting the robust construction and the smooth, even Black Nitride finish. It felt solid and well-made, immediately inspiring confidence.
I’ve used other turkey chokes in the past, including a well-regarded Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke and a factory full choke. This choke seemed different, more intentionally engineered for tight patterns at further distances. I chose the EAR Head Hunter over other options because of the claims surrounding its internal geometry and its supposed ability to deliver exceptional pattern density. It’s a specialized tool for a specialized task. I’m genuinely excited to see if it lives up to the hype and improves my success rate this spring.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .655 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the EAR Head Hunter was at my local shooting range. I wanted to pattern it thoroughly before hitting the turkey woods. The weather was slightly overcast, with a light breeze – conditions ideal for patterning.
Using a variety of turkey loads, I shot at targets set at 30, 40, and 50 yards. Right away, the pattern consistency was noticeable. The EAR Head Hunter appeared to deliver denser, more uniform patterns compared to my previous choke.
The installation was straightforward, no special tools needed beyond a standard choke wrench. The choke itself threaded smoothly into my Benelli Nova. I encountered no issues during installation or use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, both at the range and in the field, the EAR Head Hunter continues to impress. It’s held up remarkably well to repeated firing and cleaning. There’s no sign of wear or corrosion on the Black Nitride finish.
Cleaning is simple. A quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent removes any residue. The choke still looks and performs as it did on day one. Compared to my previous experiences with other chokes, the EAR Head Hunter is proving to be more durable and reliable. The patterns have been remarkably consistent.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .655
Specifications
The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .655 is a specialized choke tube designed for 12-gauge shotguns with Invector choke systems. Its key specifications include:
- Caliber: 12 Gauge. It’s specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns, the most common gauge for turkey hunting.
- Choke Constriction: .655″. This tight constriction is designed to produce extremely dense patterns at extended ranges, crucial for effective turkey hunting.
- Material: High-quality steel with a Black Nitride finish. The Black Nitride coating provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability, ensuring a long lifespan even under harsh conditions.
- Compatibility: Invector Choke System. It’s designed to fit shotguns that utilize the Invector choke system, making it compatible with a wide range of popular models.
- Internal Design: JEBS Patented “Multi-Staged” Interior Bore Design. This proprietary design is engineered to improve shot and wad separation, resulting in denser, more consistent patterns.
These specifications directly impact the choke’s performance and its suitability for turkey hunting. The tight constriction and the JEBS internal design are intended to maximize pattern density and effective range.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter excels at its primary job: delivering tight, consistent patterns for turkey hunting. Accuracy at 40 yards is exceptional, consistently placing a high percentage of pellets within a 10-inch circle. This level of precision is critical for ethical and effective turkey hunting.
The choke’s greatest strength is its ability to maintain pattern density at longer distances. Its weakness is that it is highly specialized. It would not be suitable for other types of hunting where a wider pattern is desired. It definitely meets and, in some cases, exceeds my expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in pattern density and consistency compared to other chokes I’ve used.
Design & Ergonomics
The EAR Head Hunter’s build quality is impressive. The materials used are robust, and the Black Nitride finish provides a sleek, durable coating. It installs flush with the end of the barrel, maintaining the shotgun’s balance.
The choke is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or expertise for installation. The design is simple and functional, focusing on performance rather than aesthetics. There’s virtually no learning curve associated with its use.
Durability & Maintenance
The EAR Head Hunter, with its Black Nitride finish, is built to last. The choke resists corrosion and wear, even after repeated use in various weather conditions. Regular cleaning is all that’s needed to maintain its performance.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving only a quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use. The quality of materials used suggests that it will last for many seasons with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it’s a standalone choke tube. Customization is limited to choosing the appropriate load for your shotgun and hunting conditions.
It’s compatible with most standard choke wrenches designed for Invector choke systems. While there aren’t specific accessories designed for it, experimenting with different shot sizes and brands is crucial to find the optimal load for your particular shotgun.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .655
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: Delivers extremely tight and consistent patterns, extending effective range.
- Durable Black Nitride Finish: Provides excellent corrosion resistance and long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Simple to install and remove with a standard choke wrench.
- Improved Shot & Wad Separation: JEBS patented design enhances pattern consistency.
- Increased Success in the Turkey Woods: Improves the odds of a clean, ethical shot at longer distances.
Cons
- Limited Versatility: Not suitable for other types of hunting requiring wider patterns.
- Specialized Use: Designed specifically for turkey hunting; not an all-purpose choke.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .655?
The EAR Head Hunter is perfect for serious turkey hunters who prioritize pattern density and extended range. This choke will be a game changer for anyone looking to maximize their shotgun’s performance in the turkey woods. It will give them the confidence to take ethical shots at longer distances.
This product might not be ideal for hunters who primarily hunt in close-range environments or those seeking a more versatile, all-purpose choke. If you rarely shoot beyond 30 yards, a less specialized choke might suffice.
The most crucial accessory is a variety of different turkey loads. Experimentation is key to finding the perfect combination that patterns best in your specific shotgun. A quality choke wrench is also a must-have for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .655
The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Black Nitride .655 is a specialized tool that delivers exceptional performance for serious turkey hunters. Its tight constriction and JEBS patented internal design produce remarkably dense and consistent patterns, extending effective range and increasing the odds of success. The Black Nitride finish ensures durability and corrosion resistance, making it a reliable investment for years to come.
At $89.99, the price is justified by the significant improvement in pattern performance. This is not just another choke tube; it’s a precision instrument designed to optimize your shotgun for turkey hunting. The price tag represents a worthwhile investment in improved performance and increased confidence in the field.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the EAR Head Hunter to any turkey hunter seeking to maximize their shotgun’s potential and extend their effective range. If you are serious about chasing longbeards, this choke tube is a must-have addition to your arsenal. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference the EAR Head Hunter can make this turkey season!