The HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported) Made a Bold First Impression
The HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported) promises to be a game-changer for waterfowl hunters using Beretta Optima Plus 12 gauge shotguns. Designed by HEVI-Shot, this choke tube aims to optimize patterns at mid-range distances, offering improved performance and denser shot groupings. As someone who spends countless hours in duck blinds and flooded timber, I’m always seeking an edge, and this choke tube piqued my interest with its promise of better performance in those crucial 25-40 yard shots.
My relentless pursuit of consistently tighter patterns and cleaner kills drove me to explore the HEVI-Shot offerings. I was specifically looking for a choke that would reliably deliver a dense, consistent pattern with non-toxic shot, without excessively constricting the shot and causing pellet deformation. This choke promised exactly that – a sweet spot for mid-range waterfowl engagements.
The choke arrived in a simple, no-nonsense package. Removing it revealed a sleek, black, ported tube crafted from 17-4 stainless steel; it immediately felt robust and well-made. The finish was clean, and the ports looked precisely machined.
I had considered a Carlson’s Cremator and a Patternmaster Code Black Duck, both reputable chokes. However, I opted for the HEVI-Shot due to their reputation for consistent patterns with their own brand of ammunition and the specifically designed porting system. The porting, designed to reduce recoil and wad disruption, was a key selling point.
Initially, I was excited, but also cautiously optimistic. The promise of tighter patterns is enticing, but the proof is always in the performance downrange. I was eager to see if the HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported) lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported) to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the HEVI-Shot choke was on a flooded rice field in Arkansas, targeting mallards. The weather was typical for late December – cold, damp, and with a light drizzle. I paired the choke with my Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus and HEVI-Shot Magnum Blend ammunition in #2 and #4 shot sizes.
The improvement in pattern density at 30 yards was immediately noticeable. The choke noticeably tightened the patterns compared to my factory modified choke, consistently putting more pellets in the kill zone. The ports seemed to do their job, as recoil felt marginally reduced.
Installation was simple; it threaded smoothly into my Beretta’s Optima Plus barrel without any issues. After a few shots, I noticed a slight build-up of residue around the ports, but nothing excessive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full waterfowl season of heavy use, the HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported) has proven to be a reliable performer. It has endured everything from icy mornings to muddy afternoons, and its performance has remained consistent. There are no signs of rust or significant wear, despite regular exposure to water and harsh conditions.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a choke tube brush and solvent removes any fouling. I apply a light coat of choke tube grease before reinstalling it to prevent seizing. The choke still looks almost new after a season of heavy use.
Compared to the factory choke tubes, the HEVI-Shot choke provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density and consistency at mid-range distances. The difference in pellet count within a 30-inch circle at 30 yards is significant, translating to cleaner kills and fewer cripples. I’m impressed with its durability and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported)
Specifications
The HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range choke boasts several key specifications. It is designed for Beretta Optima Plus 12 gauge shotguns and constructed from durable 17-4 stainless steel. The black finish provides corrosion resistance and a sleek aesthetic.
This is a mid-range choke, optimized for distances between 25 and 40 yards. The choke features a ported design, intended to reduce recoil and wad disruption. It weighs approximately 3 ounces, adding minimal weight to the shotgun.
These specifications are crucial for waterfowl hunting. The 17-4 stainless steel ensures the choke can withstand the rigors of repeated shooting and exposure to harsh weather. The ported design contributes to more comfortable shooting, especially during high-volume hunts.
Performance & Functionality
The HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range excels at its intended purpose: delivering dense and consistent patterns at mid-range. Accuracy is significantly improved compared to using a factory modified choke at similar distances. It consistently puts a higher percentage of pellets in a 30-inch circle at 30 yards, resulting in more effective shots.
The choke’s primary strength is its pattern density at mid-range, giving hunters confidence in cleaner kills. One minor weakness is that at distances beyond 40 yards, the pattern can become a bit sparse, so it’s best suited for hunters who primarily shoot birds within that range. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a mid-range waterfowl choke.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the HEVI-Shot choke exhibiting tight tolerances and a robust construction. The stainless steel construction feels substantial, and the black finish is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The choke is easy to install and remove, thanks to its smooth threads.
There is virtually no learning curve. It’s a simple, straightforward choke tube. Once installed, you simply aim and shoot; no adjustments are needed.
Durability & Maintenance
Made from 17-4 stainless steel, the HEVI-Shot choke is built to last for many seasons with proper care. Regular cleaning and light lubrication will keep it performing optimally. The stainless steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, even in wet environments.
Maintenance is simple. A choke tube brush, solvent, and a light coat of grease are all that’s needed to keep the choke in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range doesn’t come with accessories. It is a standalone choke tube designed to replace factory chokes. While there are no direct customization options for the choke itself, its compatibility with Beretta Optima Plus barrels means it can be paired with a wide range of aftermarket shotgun accessories, such as extended magazine tubes, different sights, and various slings.
The choke is compatible with all HEVI-Shot ammunition and performs optimally with their waterfowl loads. It also works well with other brands of non-toxic shot.
Pros and Cons of HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported)
Pros
- Significantly improved pattern density at mid-range distances (25-40 yards), leading to cleaner kills.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance in harsh environments.
- Ported design helps to reduce recoil and wad disruption, improving shot consistency and shooter comfort.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring only basic tools and cleaning supplies.
- Aesthetically pleasing black finish adds a touch of style to any Beretta Optima Plus shotgun.
Cons
- Performance may diminish beyond 40 yards, as the pattern can become sparse.
- Requires regular cleaning to prevent fouling buildup in the ports.
Who Should Buy HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported)?
This choke is perfect for waterfowl hunters who primarily target ducks and geese at mid-range distances. It’s also ideal for those seeking tighter, more consistent patterns with non-toxic shot. Beretta Optima Plus shotgun owners looking to improve their shotgun’s performance in the field will find this choke an invaluable addition.
Hunters who frequently engage birds at longer ranges (beyond 40 yards) might want to consider a different choke with a tighter constriction. Anyone unwilling to perform regular maintenance on their choke tube should also skip this product, as the ports require periodic cleaning.
A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal. A high-quality choke tube grease will prevent seizing and ensure smooth operation. Finally, pairing it with HEVI-Shot ammunition can further optimize performance.
Conclusion on HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported)
The HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported) delivers on its promise of improved pattern density and performance at mid-range. Its robust construction, ported design, and easy maintenance make it a reliable and worthwhile investment for serious waterfowl hunters. For under $30, the increase in pattern density and cleaner kills make it an exceptional value.
I wholeheartedly recommend the HEVI-Shot 550124 Hevi-Choke Waterfowl Beretta Optima Plus 12 Gauge Mid-Range 17-4 Stainless Steel Black (Ported) to any waterfowl hunter looking to upgrade their Beretta Optima Plus shotgun. Don’t leave your next hunt to chance. Upgrade your choke tube and experience the difference firsthand!