The HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA Made a Bold First Impression
The HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA choke tube doesn’t exactly scream “high-end tactical gear” at a glance. For just under $14, it’s clear that HS is aiming for function over frills, and that’s something I can appreciate. I’ve spent years evaluating gear designed for life-or-death situations, and sometimes the simplest solutions are the most reliable.
I needed a dedicated turkey choke for my Remington 870 for the upcoming spring season. While I have a few general-purpose chokes, I wanted something optimized for the tight patterns required for ethical turkey hunting at longer ranges. I usually prefer extended chokes, but I am willing to test this flush-mounted model.
My initial impression upon receiving the HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA was one of reserved curiosity. It’s a small, unassuming piece of steel, finished in a matte black, and lighter than I anticipated. Compared to my Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke ($40) or even a basic factory Remington choke ($25), it feels less substantial. The build quality seems decent, but only a range trip will confirm its true worth.
First impressions can be deceiving, and in the world of outdoor gear, performance is paramount. This HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA may surprise me, and I am going into this review with an open mind.
Real-World Testing: Putting HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA was at my local shooting range, patterning on paper at 30 and 40 yards. The weather was clear, but with a slight crosswind that could influence pellet distribution. I used a variety of turkey loads, including Winchester Long Beard XR (my usual go-to), Federal Premium TSS, and some budget-friendly Remington loads.
The HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA was easy to install using a standard choke tube wrench. I was instantly surprised at how tight the pattern was at 30 yards, leaving a nearly fist-sized hole in the target. At 40 yards, the pattern opened up, but still retained a dense core, with enough pellets to confidently take a turkey.
There were no issues with installation, extraction, or the choke tube loosening during firing. I ran approximately 50 rounds through my Remington 870 on this first range trip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion despite being exposed to moisture and varying temperatures. Cleaning is a breeze, a quick scrub with a brush and solvent keeps it in prime condition.
Compared to some of my more expensive chokes, the HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA might not have the fancy porting or aesthetic appeal, but it gets the job done, and at a fraction of the price. This will continue to be a permanent addition to my turkey hunting setup.
Breaking Down the Features of HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA
Specifications
The HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA is a 12-gauge choke tube designed to fit Remington and Daly shotguns. It’s constructed from heat-treated steel and features a black oxide finish for corrosion resistance. The choke is designed to produce extra-full patterns, ideal for turkey hunting.
The flush-mounted design keeps the overall length of the shotgun compact. This is especially useful in tight hunting conditions. The choke is marked with “HS UNDERTAKER” for easy identification.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the pattern density and effective range of your shotgun. An extra-full choke, like the HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA, constricts the shot tighter as it leaves the barrel. This results in denser patterns at longer ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA excels at its primary function: delivering tight, consistent patterns for turkey hunting. At 40 yards, I consistently achieved patterns with over 80% of the pellets inside a 20-inch circle, using a variety of turkey loads. The performance is exceptional for the price.
While the choke performs admirably, some higher-end chokes may offer slightly more consistent patterns across a wider range of loads. But for most hunters, the HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA will provide all the performance they need.
Design & Ergonomics
The HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA features a simple, functional design. The black oxide finish is durable and provides adequate corrosion resistance. Being a flush-mounted choke, it does not extend beyond the end of the barrel, maintaining a sleek profile.
The choke is easy to install and remove with a standard choke tube wrench. There is no knurling or texturing on the exterior of the choke. This could make it slightly more difficult to grip with greasy hands, however, this is a minor issue.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from heat-treated steel, the HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. After several weeks of testing, there are no signs of wear or damage.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply clean the choke with a solvent and brush after each use to remove powder residue and plastic wad buildup. Applying a light coat of oil will help prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA does not come with any accessories. It’s a standalone choke tube designed to be compatible with any Remington or Daly 12-gauge shotgun that accepts Rem Choke-style tubes.
There are no customization options available for the choke itself. This is a simple, functional product designed for a specific purpose. Aftermarket choke tube wrenches, however, are available for easier installation and removal.
Pros and Cons of HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA
Pros
- Excellent pattern density for turkey hunting.
- Extremely affordable price point.
- Durable construction from heat-treated steel.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Compatible with Remington and Daly 12-gauge shotguns (Rem Choke).
Cons
- Flush-mounted design may not offer the same recoil reduction as extended chokes.
- Lacks the aesthetic appeal and features of higher-end chokes.
Who Should Buy HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA?
The HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA is perfect for budget-conscious turkey hunters who want a reliable and effective choke tube. It’s also a great option for beginner turkey hunters who are just starting out and don’t want to invest in expensive gear. Experienced turkey hunters looking for a dedicated backup choke should also consider this product.
Those who prioritize recoil reduction or want a choke with advanced features like porting or extended length might want to explore more expensive options. Hunters seeking maximum pattern consistency across a wide range of loads might also want to look at higher-end chokes.
A must-have accessory would be a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal.
Conclusion on HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA
The HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA is a surprisingly effective turkey choke tube that delivers excellent performance at an unbeatable price. While it lacks the bells and whistles of more expensive options, it excels at its primary function: producing tight, dense patterns for ethical turkey hunting.
The price is absolutely justified considering the choke’s performance. You are getting a fantastic value for your money.
I would absolutely recommend the HS UNDERTAKER CT REM/DALY 12GA to any turkey hunter looking for an affordable and reliable choke tube. Don’t let the low price fool you, this choke will help you put birds on the table. So gear up, get out there, and good luck this season!