The Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690 Made a Bold First Impression
The Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690 promises tighter patterns with buckshot, and reduced recoil, which is music to any serious deer or hog hunter’s ears. Kick’s Industries has built a solid reputation for quality choke tubes, so I was eager to see if this one lived up to the hype.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve patterned countless loads through various shotguns, constantly seeking the ideal combination of range, penetration, and pattern density. For years, I struggled with inconsistent buckshot patterns from my Remington 870, leading to frustrating hunts and ethically questionable shots at longer distances.
The Kick’s BuckKicker arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Pulling it out, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction, the 17-4 stainless steel giving it a reassuring weight and feel of quality. The diagonally ported design was visually aggressive, hinting at its recoil-reducing capabilities.
I considered other extended chokes from Carlson’s and Patternmaster, but the Kick’s BuckKicker‘s unique porting system and reputation for consistent patterns won me over. I hoped it would finally solve my buckshot pattern woes.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality seemed excellent, and the promise of both tighter patterns and reduced recoil was enticing. Now, it was time to see if it delivered in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Kick’s BuckKicker was at my local shooting range. I set up targets at 25 and 40 yards, using various brands of 00 buckshot, the old nemesis of my Remington 870.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The recoil felt reduced, not drastically, but enough to make follow-up shots faster and more comfortable. More importantly, the patterns were significantly tighter compared to the factory modified choke I had previously used.
Installation was a breeze, requiring no special tools, just fingers. No immediate issues cropped up, but I knew the true test would come during a real hunt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including two hog hunting trips and numerous range sessions, the Kick’s BuckKicker has proven its worth. The choke tube still looks and performs as new, with no signs of wear or loosening.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it functioning perfectly. Compared to my previous experiences with inconsistent patterns, the Kick’s BuckKicker has been a game-changer, providing confidence in my shots and improving my ethical harvesting rate.
The durability of the stainless steel is impressive, withstanding harsh weather conditions and constant use. The recoil reduction, while not earth-shattering, is a welcome bonus that translates to less fatigue during long days in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690
Specifications
- The Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690 has an overall length of 3 9/16″. This extended length aids in pattern development and provides a degree of muzzle protection.
- The ported section measures 1 1/2″. These ports are key to recoil reduction by redirecting gases.
- The in-barrel length is 2 1/16″. This dictates the choke’s constriction and how it affects the shot pattern.
- The standard bore size is .730″. This is the bore diameter of a 12 gauge shotgun.
- The choke tube is made from 17-4 Stainless Steel. This material is known for its strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand high pressures.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the choke’s performance. The stainless steel ensures longevity, while the porting and internal configuration work together to tighten patterns and reduce felt recoil.
Performance & Functionality
The Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690 excels at its primary job: delivering tight, consistent buckshot patterns. At 40 yards, I consistently achieved patterns within a 12-15 inch circle with 00 buckshot, a significant improvement over my previous results.
The recoil reduction is a subtle but noticeable benefit, making follow-up shots quicker and more comfortable. One slight weakness is that some loads still pattern better than others, requiring some experimentation to find the ideal combination for your specific shotgun and hunting needs.
Overall, the Kick’s BuckKicker meets and often exceeds expectations, particularly for hunters seeking to extend their effective range with buckshot.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is outstanding, with the 17-4 stainless steel providing a robust and durable feel. The extended design allows for easy installation and removal without tools.
The diagonally ported design is functional and aesthetically pleasing, giving the shotgun a more aggressive look. There is no learning curve involved; simply screw it in and you’re ready to go.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690 is built to last, thanks to its robust construction and corrosion-resistant materials. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed to maintain its performance.
Given the quality of the steel and the simple design, this choke tube should last for many years with proper care. This choke tube is a solid investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kick’s BuckKicker doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it’s a self-contained unit. It is compatible with any Remington 12 gauge shotgun that accepts Rem Chokes, making it versatile.
There are no specific customization options for the choke tube itself, but you can experiment with different buckshot loads to fine-tune your patterns. The ability to easily switch between different choke tubes for various hunting situations is another form of customization.
Pros and Cons of Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690
Pros
- Significantly tighter buckshot patterns at extended ranges.
- Noticeable recoil reduction for faster follow-up shots.
- Durable 17-4 stainless steel construction for long-lasting performance.
- Easy installation and removal without tools.
- Improves ethical harvesting range for deer and hog hunting.
Cons
- Requires experimentation to find the optimal buckshot load for your shotgun.
- Recoil reduction is moderate, not a dramatic change.
Who Should Buy Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690?
The Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690 is perfect for deer and hog hunters who rely on buckshot and need tighter patterns at longer ranges. It’s also ideal for anyone seeking to reduce felt recoil in their 12 gauge Remington shotgun.
This choke tube might not be necessary for those who primarily hunt waterfowl or small game, as it’s specifically designed for buckshot. Anyone content with their current buckshot patterns or who hunts within very close ranges could skip this product.
A bore snake and a good quality gun solvent are must-have accessories to maintain the choke tube and your shotgun. Experimenting with different brands and loads of buckshot is highly recommended to find the optimal combination for your specific needs.
Conclusion on Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690
The Kick’s BuckKicker Extra Full Choke Tube for 12 ga Remington .690 is a well-built, effective choke tube that delivers on its promises of tighter patterns and reduced recoil. At $43.49, the price is justified given the improved performance and durability it offers.
I would highly recommend this choke tube to any hunter looking to improve their buckshot accuracy and extend their effective range. If you are struggling to achieve consistent patterns with buckshot, the Kick’s BuckKicker is a worthwhile investment that can make a significant difference in your hunting success. Upgrade your Remington 870 today!