EAR Head Hunter Savage/Stevens 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black Review

The EAR Head Hunter Savage/Stevens 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black Made a Bold First Impression

The EAR Head Hunter Savage/Stevens 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black choke tube isn’t just another accessory; it’s a promise of tighter patterns and longer shots in the turkey woods. Crafted by EAR, this choke is designed specifically for Savage/Stevens 410 gauge shotguns, boasting an extra full constriction and a sleek matte black finish. I was seeking a choke that could extend the effective range of my 410 for turkey hunting, and the Head Hunter promised precisely that.

I’ve seen too many hunts end in frustration due to inadequate range, and I was determined to equip my 410 with the best possible tool. The package arrived promptly, and the choke tube itself felt substantial in hand. Its matte black finish gives it a tactical, no-nonsense look that I appreciate.

Compared to a standard full choke or some ported turkey chokes I’ve used in the past, the EAR Head Hunter appears to have a more aggressively designed internal constriction. This difference immediately piqued my interest. I chose this choke over others because of EAR’s reputation for producing quality chokes with innovative internal designs aimed at optimizing shot patterns. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism; I’ve seen claims before, and I was eager to put this choke to the test.

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

First Use Experience

My first outing with the EAR Head Hunter was on a crisp spring morning in the dense hardwoods of eastern Oklahoma. I mounted it on my Stevens 301 single-shot 410 and patterned it at 20, 30, and 40 yards using various turkey loads. The weather was clear and cool, providing ideal conditions for testing.

The most immediately noticeable difference was the pattern density at 30 yards. Where my factory full choke produced a somewhat sparse pattern with noticeable gaps, the Head Hunter delivered a much tighter, more consistent spread. Ease of use was a non-issue; the choke threaded smoothly into the barrel and tightened securely with a choke wrench. I experienced no initial issues with installation or performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and multiple turkey hunts, the EAR Head Hunter has proven to be a reliable and effective addition to my 410. The matte black finish has held up well, showing no signs of wear or chipping despite exposure to brush and moisture. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent is all it takes to remove any powder residue.

Compared to my previous experiences with other choke tubes, the EAR Head Hunter has consistently delivered tighter and more predictable patterns. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my confidence when taking longer shots, knowing that I have a denser pattern downrange. The choke has performed flawlessly, exceeding my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of EAR Head Hunter Savage/Stevens 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black

Specifications

• Caliber: .410 Gauge. This choke is specifically designed for 410 bore shotguns.
  The 410’s inherent limitations demand precise choke control for optimal pattern density.
• Constriction: Extra Full. The extra full constriction provides extremely tight patterns at extended ranges.
  This is crucial for ethical and effective turkey hunting with a 410.
• Material: Not specified by manufacturer. Based on appearance and performance, likely high-quality steel.
  Durable materials ensure longevity and resistance to wear from repeated use.
• Finish: Matte Black. The matte black finish reduces glare and provides a tactical look.
  The non-reflective surface aids in concealment in hunting situations.
• Compatibility: Savage/Stevens 410 Gauge Shotguns. Designed to fit shotguns with interchangeable choke tubes.
  Ensures a secure and proper fit for optimal performance and safety.
• Design: Multi-staged interior bore. This patented design promotes better “shot & wad cup” separation.
  This separation leads to tighter, denser patterns on the target.

Performance & Functionality

The EAR Head Hunter choke dramatically improves the .410’s pattern density, particularly at distances beyond 25 yards. Its performance shines when using quality turkey loads designed for tight patterns. However, it’s essential to pattern different loads to determine the optimal combination for your specific shotgun.

The main strength of the Head Hunter is its ability to consistently produce dense and uniform patterns. One area for potential improvement could be clearer markings indicating the exact constriction size. It meets expectations by extending the usable range of the 410 for turkey hunting.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the EAR Head Hunter is solid and reassuring. The choke threads smoothly into the barrel, indicating precise machining. While no specific weight is provided, it feels balanced and doesn’t add noticeable weight to the shotgun.

The simple design requires no special tools for installation, beyond a standard choke wrench. There is virtually no learning curve, making it easy to use for even novice shotgunners.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and cleaning, the EAR Head Hunter should last for many seasons. Its robust construction and corrosion-resistant finish ensure long-term durability. Regular cleaning after each use is crucial to prevent powder residue build-up, maintaining its performance and longevity.

Disassembly is not required for cleaning, simplifying the maintenance process. A quick scrub with a solvent and bore brush is usually sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EAR Head Hunter itself doesn’t require additional accessories for basic functionality. However, using high-quality turkey loads specifically designed for tight patterns will maximize its performance. While not a direct customization, experimenting with different brands and shot sizes is recommended to find the optimal combination for your shotgun.

The choke is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Savage/Stevens shotguns. There are no direct accessories made to be paired with this choke tube.

Pros and Cons of EAR Head Hunter Savage/Stevens 410 Gauge Extra Full Matte Black