First Thoughts on the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 promises to be the edge every turkey hunter craves. This choke, developed by EAR, aims to deliver denser patterns at extended ranges, giving hunters more confidence in the field. The “multi-staged” interior bore design, a JEBS patented technology, caught my eye as a potential game-changer.
I’ve spent countless hours in the turkey woods, often frustrated by inconsistent patterns from factory chokes. The need for tighter, more predictable shot placement at longer distances became increasingly apparent, particularly when dealing with wary birds. I was looking for a choke that could consistently deliver lethal patterns beyond the typical 30-yard range.
My first impression upon unboxing the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 was positive. The matte black finish looks durable and non-reflective, crucial for remaining concealed from sharp-eyed gobblers. The choke felt solid and well-machined, instilling confidence in its build quality.
I considered other popular turkey chokes like the Carlson’s Long Beard XR Choke Tube and the Primos Jelly Head Maximum. I ultimately chose the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 due to its advertised “multi-staged” bore design and the promise of exceptional pattern density. I was hoping for a choke that lived up to the hype, and early signs were promising.
I approached this review with cautious optimism. I’ve been burned by marketing claims before, but the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 piqued my interest with its innovative design. Only real-world testing would reveal if it could deliver on its promises of improved range and pattern density.
Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 at my local shooting range. The goal was to pattern it with various turkey loads at distances ranging from 20 to 40 yards. Conditions were ideal, with clear skies and a slight breeze.
The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 immediately demonstrated tighter patterns than my factory choke. Specifically, the patterns at 30 and 40 yards showed a noticeable increase in pellet density within the vital head and neck region of the turkey target. The point of impact was consistent, and the choke threaded into my Benelli Nova smoothly.
I did not encounter any immediate issues or surprises during my initial range session. The installation was straightforward, and the choke performed as advertised, producing dense, even patterns. This initial positive experience significantly boosted my confidence in the choke’s capabilities.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple trips to the range and two turkey hunts, the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 has proven to be a reliable performer. The finish remains intact, showing no signs of wear despite being subjected to various weather conditions. I’ve hunted in light rain and encountered muddy conditions with no ill effects.
Maintaining the choke is simple. After each use, I remove the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660, clean it with a bore brush and solvent, and then apply a light coat of oil. This simple routine keeps the choke in optimal condition and prevents rust or corrosion. The internal bore design, while complex, doesn’t seem to trap excessive residue, making cleaning relatively easy.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket chokes, the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 outperforms them in pattern density at extended ranges. Previously, I struggled to consistently achieve lethal patterns beyond 35 yards. With this choke, I’m confident in taking ethical shots out to 40 yards, provided the conditions are right and I have a clear shot.
Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Choke Type: Turkey
- Constriction: .660
- Finish: Matte Black
- Compatibility: Mobilchoke System
- Interior Bore Design: JEBS Patented “Multi-Staged” Design
The .660 constriction is a standard for turkey chokes, aiming to produce tight patterns with modern turkey loads. The Mobilchoke compatibility ensures it fits a wide range of popular shotguns from manufacturers like Benelli, Beretta, and Franchi. The JEBS patented “Multi-Staged” design is the key feature, as it is intended to improve shot and wad separation. This ultimately leads to denser and more consistent patterns.
Performance & Functionality
The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 excels at producing extremely tight and consistent patterns with various turkey loads. It is able to deliver impressive results at distances exceeding 40 yards, making it a valuable tool for serious turkey hunters. The choke’s ability to maintain pattern density at longer ranges is a significant advantage.
The primary strength of the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is its exceptional pattern density. The only potential weakness is that extremely tight patterns might be less forgiving at closer ranges, requiring precise aiming. Overall, the choke meets and exceeds expectations, significantly improving my confidence and effectiveness in the turkey woods.
Design & Ergonomics
The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 features a robust build quality and a non-reflective matte black finish. The finish helps to minimize glare and reflection, which is essential for remaining undetected by wary turkeys. The choke feels solid and well-machined, instilling confidence in its durability and longevity.
The choke is user-friendly and easy to install. Simply thread it into your shotgun barrel and tighten it with a choke tube wrench. There is virtually no learning curve associated with its use.
Durability & Maintenance
The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is built to last, constructed from high-quality steel with a durable finish. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure its longevity and consistent performance. The choke should last for many seasons of hard use with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning tools and solvents. Regular cleaning after each use will prevent rust and ensure optimal performance. No specialized tools or skills are required for maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the standard choke tube wrench. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories designed for Mobilchoke systems, such as specialized choke tube cases. There aren’t any specific customization options directly related to the choke itself, but the wide range of compatible turkey loads allows for fine-tuning of patterns and performance.
Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
Pros
- Delivers extremely tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges.
- The JEBS patented “Multi-Staged” bore design effectively improves shot and wad separation.
- Durable matte black finish minimizes glare and reflection.
- Compatible with a wide range of Mobilchoke shotguns.
- Easy to install and maintain.
Cons
- Extremely tight patterns may be less forgiving at close range, requiring precise aiming.
- The price point of $89.99 is higher than some other aftermarket chokes.
Who Should Buy EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660?
The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is perfect for serious turkey hunters seeking to extend their effective range and improve pattern density. It’s also excellent for hunters who use Mobilchoke-compatible shotguns and desire consistently tight patterns. This choke is for hunters who prioritize performance and are willing to invest in a premium aftermarket choke.
Hunters who primarily hunt in dense woods or at very close ranges may not fully benefit from the extremely tight patterns produced by this choke. Beginners who are still developing their aiming skills might also find the tight patterns less forgiving. Hunters on a very tight budget might find cheaper alternatives that offer acceptable performance at shorter ranges.
A high-quality turkey-specific shotshell is a must-have accessory to pair with this choke. Experimenting with different loads is crucial to finding the optimal combination for your shotgun and hunting conditions. A reliable choke tube wrench is also essential for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660
The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 is an exceptional turkey choke that delivers on its promises of improved pattern density and extended range. The JEBS patented “Multi-Staged” bore design is truly effective, and the choke’s durable construction ensures years of reliable performance.
At $89.99, the price is justified by the significant improvement in pattern quality and the increased confidence it provides in the field. The ability to consistently deliver lethal patterns at longer ranges makes it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 to any turkey hunter seeking to maximize their chances of success. If you are looking for a choke that will give you the edge you need to bag that wary gobbler, look no further. Upgrade your shotgun with the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .660 and experience the difference for yourself.