The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 Made a Bold First Impression
The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 promises tight patterns and extended range for the serious turkey hunter. I’ve spent over a decade chasing gobblers through thick brush and open fields, and I’m always looking for an edge to put birds on the table. My trusty old full choke just wasn’t cutting it anymore; the patterns were inconsistent beyond 30 yards, and I needed something that could deliver consistent lethality at longer distances.
I was particularly intrigued by the JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design, hoping it would truly enhance shot and wad separation. This choke tube entered the arena alongside competition from Carlson’s and Patternmaster. After reading through countless forums and expert reviews, the EAR Head Hunter won me over with its claims of exceptional density and even patterns, despite a mid-range price point.
The choke arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The matte black finish looked durable and functional. Slipping it into my Benelli Super Black Eagle’s Invector Plus threads felt smooth and precise. The weight was negligible, barely adding any noticeable heft to the shotgun. It felt like a quality piece of gear ready for some serious testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting **EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660** to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the EAR Head Hunter was at the local shooting range, patterning it with a variety of turkey loads. I wanted to see how it performed with different shot sizes and compositions. The day was crisp and clear, ideal for judging pattern density and consistency.
The initial results were impressive. At 40 yards, the pattern was significantly tighter and more uniform than my old full choke. The point of impact was consistent and predictable, requiring minimal adjustment to my aiming point. The wad separation seemed to be doing its job, preventing flyers and maintaining a dense core.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of dedicated use, both at the range and in the turkey woods, the EAR Head Hunter has proven itself to be a reliable performer. It consistently delivers tight, lethal patterns out to 45 yards, a significant improvement over my previous choke. There are no visible signs of wear or tear despite being exposed to mud, rain, and the occasional bump against tree trunks.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a few minutes with a bore brush and some solvent. I did notice a slight buildup of plastic wad residue, but it cleaned up easily enough. Compared to my old choke, which required constant scrubbing, the EAR Head Hunter is a breeze to maintain. It has definitely outperformed my expectations and proven to be a worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of **EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660**
Specifications
The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns with Invector Plus choke systems. The .660 constriction is optimized for turkey hunting. This creates extremely tight patterns at extended ranges.
The choke is constructed from high-quality steel with a matte black finish for corrosion resistance and reduced glare. It’s engineered to withstand the pressures of heavy turkey loads. The length is a standard extended choke length, providing added protection to the muzzle. This also aids in tightening patterns.
<h3>Performance & Functionality</h3>The EAR Head Hunter truly shines when it comes to performance. It delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns, allowing for confident shots at longer ranges. The wad separation technology works as advertised. This drastically reduces the number of stray pellets and maintains a dense, lethal core.
The choke exhibits minimal recoil increase compared to more open chokes. Its performance far exceeded my expectations. There is a slight need to adjust aiming points depending on the load.
<h3>Design & Ergonomics</h3>The matte black finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, minimizing glare and reflection in the field. The extended design provides added protection to the muzzle. It is also easy to grip for installation and removal. Installation is simple using a choke wrench.
The choke is lightweight and doesn’t significantly alter the balance of the shotgun. The design is simple and effective.
<h3>Durability & Maintenance</h3>The EAR Head Hunter’s robust steel construction ensures long-lasting durability. It can withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to harsh weather conditions. As mentioned earlier, cleaning is a breeze, requiring minimal effort to remove powder and wad residue. Regular cleaning with solvent will keep it performing optimally for years to come.
<h3>Accessories and Customization Options</h3>The EAR Head Hunter doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but its compatibility with the Invector Plus system opens up a world of possibilities. You can use any standard choke wrench designed for Invector Plus chokes. The choke is designed for use with a variety of turkey loads.
Some hunters might choose to pair it with a red dot sight for enhanced accuracy at longer ranges. While not a customization in the traditional sense, experimenting with different shot sizes and brands can further optimize performance. The choke is not threaded for external accessories.
Pros and Cons of **EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660**
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges.
- The JEBS patented “multi-staged” interior bore design noticeably improves wad separation and pattern density.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.
- The matte black finish reduces glare and reflection in the field, providing a tactical advantage.
- Easy to install, remove, and clean, making maintenance a breeze.
## Cons
- The extremely tight constriction may not be ideal for very close-range shots (inside 20 yards).
- Pattern testing is crucial to determine the optimal load for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions.
Who Should Buy **EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660**?
The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand consistent, lethal patterns at extended ranges. This choke is also excellent for experienced shotgunners looking to maximize the performance of their Invector Plus compatible shotgun. This product will help them confidently reach out and touch those wary gobblers.
Hunters who primarily hunt in extremely dense woods with only close-range opportunities might find this choke too restrictive. They should instead use a more open choke. New hunters might benefit from a more forgiving, less specialized choke while they learn the fundamentals of shotgun shooting.
A quality choke wrench is a must-have accessory. You also need a variety of turkey loads to pattern the choke effectively. A comfortable shooting rest is beneficial for precise pattern testing.
Conclusion on **EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660**
The EAR Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is a game-changer for serious turkey hunters. Its ability to deliver consistently tight and lethal patterns at extended ranges is truly remarkable. The price is more than justified given the significant performance boost it provides.
I wholeheartedly recommend the EAR Head Hunter to any turkey hunter looking to improve their odds of success. It has become an essential part of my turkey hunting arsenal. If you’re tired of watching longbeards strut just out of range, it’s time to give the EAR Head Hunter a try. Invest in your hunt; you won’t regret it.
