The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 Made a Bold First Impression
The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 isn’t just another choke tube; it’s a declaration of war on longbeards. Crafted by EAR, it promises extreme patterns at extended ranges, a claim that immediately piqued my interest as a seasoned turkey hunter always seeking an edge. This isn’t just about filling a tag; it’s about ethical, clean harvests, and the right choke can make all the difference.
My quest for this choke started with a frustrating season last year. I missed two birds that should have been easy shots, both just outside my typical range. I knew my gun was capable; the problem was pattern density at those distances. I considered several other aftermarket chokes, including models from Carlson’s and Briley, but the EAR Head Hunter‘s promise of “multi-staged” interior bore design intrigued me.
Unboxing the EAR Head Hunter was a surprisingly satisfying experience. The matte black finish is understated and professional, and the choke feels solid in hand, hinting at robust construction. Its weight isn’t excessive, ensuring it won’t throw off the balance of my shotgun.
Compared to the factory choke, the EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 looks and feels like a precision instrument. I was excited to get it on my shotgun and see how it performed in the field. My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 was at a local shooting range known for its 50-yard targets. The weather was crisp and clear, perfect for patterning my shotgun. I used a variety of turkey loads, including Winchester Long Beard XR and Federal Premium TSS, to see how the choke performed with different ammunition.
The difference compared to my factory choke was immediately noticeable. Patterns were significantly tighter and more consistent, especially at 40 and 50 yards. The EAR Head Hunter seemed to deliver on its promise of improved shot-and-wad separation, resulting in denser patterns on the target. There were no unexpected issues after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 has proven to be incredibly reliable. It remains securely threaded in my shotgun, showing no signs of loosening during repeated firing. The matte black finish has held up well to exposure to the elements, with only minor wear marks visible after cleaning.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use keeps it in excellent condition. Compared to previous experiences with other aftermarket chokes that required constant adjustments, the EAR Head Hunter has consistently delivered superior performance without any fuss. It has significantly outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655
Specifications
Caliber: 12 Gauge. This choke is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of models.
Choke Constriction: .655. This is a very tight constriction optimized for turkey hunting, designed to produce extremely dense patterns at longer ranges.
Compatibility: Invector Plus. This choke is compatible with shotguns that utilize the Invector Plus choke system, a common standard found on many popular shotgun brands.
Material: Steel. The steel construction ensures durability and longevity, even with frequent use and exposure to harsh conditions.
Finish: Matte Black. The matte black finish reduces glare and provides a sleek, professional look, crucial for remaining concealed in the turkey woods.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the choke’s performance and its suitability for turkey hunting. The tight constriction provides the pattern density needed for ethical kills at extended ranges, while the Invector Plus compatibility ensures it fits a wide range of popular shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 excels at its primary job: delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges. Accuracy is significantly improved compared to factory chokes, allowing for confident shots at distances that would otherwise be considered unethical. Its reliability is excellent; I’ve experienced no issues with pattern consistency or choke tube integrity.
The choke’s main strength is its ability to maintain a dense pattern at distances exceeding 40 yards. A minor weakness might be that it’s too tight for very close-range shots (inside 20 yards), where the pattern could be too small. It has exceeded expectations in its ability to extend my effective range.
Design & Ergonomics
The EAR Head Hunter is built from high-quality steel with a durable matte black finish. The choke’s weight is balanced, preventing any significant change in the shotgun’s handling. It’s user-friendly, requiring no special tools for installation or removal beyond a standard choke wrench.
There’s a minimal learning curve. Anyone familiar with changing choke tubes will find the EAR Head Hunter easy to install and use.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction and matte black finish suggest the EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 will last for many seasons with proper care. Routine cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s required to maintain its performance. With proper care, it should last a lifetime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 itself doesn’t come with any accessories, focusing solely on its primary function as a high-performance choke tube. However, it enhances the shotgun’s overall customization by allowing the user to fine-tune their pattern density for specific hunting scenarios. Its Invector Plus compatibility means it can be used with a wide variety of shotguns designed for that system.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and dense patterns at extended ranges (40+ yards).
- The multi-staged bore design significantly improves shot-and-wad separation, leading to more consistent patterns.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Matte black finish reduces glare and provides concealment in hunting situations.
- Easy to install and maintain with standard choke wrenches and cleaning procedures.
Cons
- Pattern may be too tight for very close-range shots (under 20 yards).
- Specifically designed for turkey hunting, making it less versatile for other shotgun applications.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655?
The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who prioritize extending their effective range and achieving ethical, clean harvests. This choke is an excellent choice for hunters using Invector Plus shotguns who are experiencing inconsistent patterns or seeking to improve their performance at longer distances.
This choke may not be ideal for hunters who primarily hunt turkeys at very close range or who need a more versatile choke for multiple game types. Those individuals might be better served by a choke with a more open constriction. There are no must-have accessories, but pairing this choke with high-quality turkey loads like Winchester Long Beard XR or Federal TSS will maximize its performance.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655
The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 is a game-changer for serious turkey hunters. Its ability to produce incredibly tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges makes it a valuable tool for ethical and successful hunts. At $89.99, the price is justified by the choke’s superior performance and durable construction.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke to anyone looking to improve their turkey hunting capabilities. If you’re ready to take your turkey hunting to the next level, the EAR Head Hunter is a must-have. Invest in the EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 and experience the difference for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.