EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 Review

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First Thoughts on the EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655

The world of turkey hunting is a game of inches, where tight patterns and ethical shots reign supreme. EAR is a name I’ve come to trust for their dedication to precision, and when I saw the EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655, I knew I had to put it through its paces. This choke promises denser patterns at longer ranges, a claim I take seriously after years of chasing gobblers through thick timber.

My usual setup, a modified full choke, was leaving me wanting at distances beyond 40 yards. I needed something that could consistently deliver a knockout punch, extending my effective range without sacrificing pattern density. The EAR Head Hunter promised exactly that, and the JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design piqued my interest.

Unboxing the EAR Head Hunter, I was immediately impressed by the matte black finish. It exudes a no-nonsense, tactical aesthetic that I appreciate in my hunting gear. The choke felt solid and well-machined, inspiring confidence that it could withstand the rigors of the turkey woods.

I considered a Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke and a Primos Jelly Head Max, but the EAR Head Hunter won out. Its advertised advanced internal design and the reputation of JEBS were the deciding factors, promising tighter patterns than the competition. My initial feeling was one of cautious optimism – I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.

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 was at the local shooting range, patterning it with various turkey loads. The weather was cooperative, with clear skies and a slight breeze. Installation was a breeze, threading smoothly into my Benelli Super Black Eagle II’s Invector Plus barrel.

The first few shots revealed a noticeable difference compared to my old choke. At 40 yards, the pattern was significantly tighter and more evenly distributed, with a dense core of pellets centered on the vital area of the turkey target. Recoil felt manageable, not drastically different from my standard choke. My initial surprise was how consistent the patterns were across different loads.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and countless rounds downrange, the EAR Head Hunter has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve hunted with it in various conditions, from damp mornings in the swamp to dry afternoons in the hardwoods. The matte black finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.

Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition. Compared to my previous choke, the EAR Head Hunter delivers consistently tighter patterns, giving me a definite edge in the field. The only maintenance I perform is after each trip where I clean and lightly lubricate it to keep it in top condition.

Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655

Specifications

The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655 is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns with Invector Plus choke systems. It is a Turkey choke, optimized for tight patterns at extended ranges. The choke features a Matte finish to reduce glare in the field.

The .655 constriction provides a balance of range and pattern density that is ideal for turkey hunting. It’s constructed from high-quality steel, ensuring durability and resistance to wear. The JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design facilitates improved shot and wad separation, which enhances pattern consistency.

Performance & Functionality

The EAR Head Hunter excels at its primary job: delivering dense, consistent patterns for ethical turkey harvests. It significantly extends my effective range, allowing me to confidently take shots at distances beyond 40 yards. The tight patterns minimize the risk of wounding birds, crucial for ethical hunting.

The choke’s performance is exceptional with premium turkey loads, providing consistently devastating patterns. One potential improvement would be offering different constrictions for varying hunting scenarios. Overall, the EAR Head Hunter far exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The EAR Head Hunter features a simple yet effective design. The matte black finish reduces glare, preventing spooking wary Toms. The choke is easy to install and remove, requiring no special tools.

The build quality is excellent, and it is obvious it is built to last. There is no learning curve; it functions seamlessly with any shotgun using the Invector Plus system.

Durability & Maintenance

The EAR Head Hunter is built to withstand the harsh conditions of turkey hunting. Its robust steel construction ensures years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning after use.

With proper care, the EAR Head Hunter should last for many seasons. It’s a testament to the quality of materials and construction.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EAR Head Hunter does not come with any additional accessories. Customization is limited to choosing the appropriate choke constriction for your specific shotgun and hunting needs. It’s compatible with any 12-gauge shotgun that uses the Invector Plus choke system.

Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .655

Pros

Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges.
Durable steel construction ensures years of reliable performance.
The JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design significantly enhances pattern density.
The matte black finish reduces glare, minimizing the risk of spooking turkeys.
Easy to install and maintain, requiring no special tools or expertise.

Cons

Relatively expensive compared to some other turkey chokes on the market.
May require experimentation with different loads to find the optimal pattern for your shotgun.

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 demand maximum range and pattern density. It’s ideal for those who hunt in areas where longer shots are common or necessary. The choke is also well-suited for hunters who prioritize ethical harvests and want to minimize the risk of wounding birds.

Hunters on a tight budget or those who typically hunt at close range might want to consider less expensive options. Those who prefer experimenting with various chokes and patterns might prefer something with more user adjustability. A must-have accessory would be a choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal in the field.

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 top-tier turkey choke that delivers on its promise of tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges. While the price point might be higher than some alternatives, the performance and durability justify the investment for serious turkey hunters. The JEBS patented design sets it apart from the competition, offering a significant advantage in the field.

The EAR Head Hunter has improved my confidence in the turkey woods, allowing me to take ethical shots at distances I wouldn’t have attempted before. I wholeheartedly recommend the EAR Head Hunter to anyone looking to maximize their shotgun’s performance and increase their chances of a successful turkey season. Upgrade your shotgun with the EAR Head Hunter today and experience the difference!