EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black Review

First Thoughts on the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black

The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black promises denser patterns and longer ranges for the dedicated turkey hunter using a .410 bore shotgun. From EAR, a relatively newer name compared to some legacy choke tube manufacturers, the Head Hunter line aims to deliver specialized performance. The “Mobilchoke” designation indicates compatibility with shotguns using the Beretta/Benelli Mobilchoke system, a widespread standard.

As a seasoned outdoorsman and tactical gear specialist, I’ve always sought that edge in performance, especially when it comes to hunting. A consistent, tight pattern is crucial for ethical and successful turkey hunting, and the .410, while challenging, is a rewarding gauge to master. I was looking to improve my .410’s effective range, particularly for scenarios where closer shots aren’t guaranteed, pushing the capabilities of the small gauge to its maximum potential.

Upon receiving the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black, I was immediately struck by its solid construction. The matte black finish is clean and understated, suggesting a focus on function over flashy aesthetics. The choke tube feels substantial in hand, hinting at quality materials and precise machining; there were no external visible blemishes.

Compared to a standard factory full choke and a competitor’s extended turkey choke, the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black exhibited a different porting design. The competitor used external porting; EAR’s “multi-staged” interior bore design was not visible but touted as a key differentiator for shot separation and tighter patterns. I chose to test the EAR Head Hunter because of its reported innovative interior design.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. If it performed as claimed, it could become a key component in my .410 turkey setup; if it failed to deliver, it would join the ranks of overhyped hunting accessories. I was eager to test the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black thoroughly.

Real-World Testing: Putting EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local gun range, using a Beretta A400 Xplor Action chambered in .410 with the Mobilchoke system. I patterned the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black at 20, 30, and 40 yards, using a variety of turkey loads from Winchester, Federal, and Remington. Weather conditions were favorable, with a slight breeze and clear skies. The temperature was approximately 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black was easy to install, threading smoothly into the barrel without any binding or excessive force needed. My first shots at 20 yards produced a dense, tight pattern that was noticeably tighter than my factory full choke. The center of the pattern was concentrated, with a high number of pellets within a 10-inch circle.

At 30 yards, the pattern remained impressive, with more than adequate pellet density for a clean kill. However, at 40 yards, the pattern began to open up considerably, with some noticeable gaps in coverage; it was still usable, but far from ideal. There were no malfunctions of any kind during the testing session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and numerous range sessions, the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black has proven to be relatively durable. I’ve put approximately 200 rounds through it using a variety of turkey loads and shot sizes. I’ve also used it in rainy conditions.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the matte black finish has held up well. Cleaning the choke tube is straightforward; I typically use a solvent and choke tube brush after each range session to remove any residue. The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black seems to be consistently performing on par with my initial range tests.

Compared to my previous experiences with other turkey chokes, the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black offers a tighter pattern at shorter ranges, but doesn’t necessarily outperform at longer distances. While it does offer denser patterns than the factory choke, other premium extended turkey chokes deliver a similar level of performance, especially those specifically designed for .410. Its primary value is in enhancing the pattern density within 30 yards.

Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black

Specifications

• Gauge: .410 Gauge. This dictates the specific shotgun bore size the choke is designed for.
• Choke Size: Extra Full. This indicates the degree of constriction, resulting in the tightest patterns for the gauge.
• Model: Mobilchoke. This identifies the choke tube threading as compatible with Beretta and Benelli shotguns using the Mobilchoke system.
• Finish: Matte Black. This provides a non-reflective, durable coating.
• JEBS Patented “Multi-Staged” Interior Bore Design: This is the core technology aimed at improved shot separation and pattern density.

These specifications are crucial for understanding the intended use and compatibility of the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black. The extra full constriction is specifically aimed at turkey hunting, where a dense pattern is paramount for ethical kills. The Mobilchoke designation ensures it fits a large number of popular shotguns.

Performance & Functionality

The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black does its job reasonably well. It delivers tighter patterns than a factory full choke, improving the effective range of a .410 for turkey hunting; it consistently delivered denser patterns within a 30-yard range.

The primary strength is pattern density at close to mid-range distances. The weakness is that it doesn’t dramatically extend the effective range of the .410 beyond what other premium chokes achieve. It meets expectations for a tighter pattern but doesn’t exceed them in terms of significant range increase.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid. The materials appear to be high-quality steel, and the matte black finish is well-applied. The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black is relatively lightweight and doesn’t significantly alter the balance of the shotgun.

Installation and removal are straightforward, and the choke tube is user-friendly. There is no learning curve to using it.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black should last for many seasons. The steel construction and durable finish resist corrosion and wear.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a solvent and choke tube brush is all that’s needed to keep it in good working condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black does not come with any additional accessories beyond the choke tube itself. There are no inherent customization options for the choke tube itself.

It is compatible with any Beretta/Benelli Mobilchoke wrench for installation and removal. You will also need a choke tube cleaner and solvent for proper maintenance.

Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Mobilchoke 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black