The Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag Made a Bold First Impression
After a frustrating waterfowl season plagued by inconsistent patterns and too many wounded birds, I knew it was time for a change. My trusty Mossberg 500, usually a reliable performer, needed a serious upgrade in the choke department. The Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag promised tighter patterns and longer-range performance, and I was eager to see if it could deliver.
I had been using a factory modified choke, which was adequate for close-range shots, but lacked the punch needed for birds flushing farther out. The Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag was my answer to reaching out and touching those wary late-season mallards. My search had narrowed down to this choke, Carlson’s Cremator, and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck. Ultimately, I chose the Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag because of its reputation for consistent patterns with steel shot, its all-steel construction, and its attractive price point.
Upon unboxing, the Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag exuded quality. The black finish was smooth and even, and the 17-4 stainless steel felt incredibly robust. It had a solid, hefty feel, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of a duck blind. It’s a no-frills, purpose-built choke, and I appreciated its straightforward design.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. It wasn’t the flashiest choke on the market, but it promised performance where it mattered most – in the field. I couldn’t wait to get out to the range and pattern it with various loads to see if it lived up to the hype. The solid build quality was encouraging, but the true test would be how it performed with steel shot at typical waterfowl hunting distances.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag was at a local shooting range, patterning various steel shot loads. I wanted to see which performed best out of my Mossberg 500 with this choke. It was a crisp autumn morning, with a slight breeze, ideal for accurate patterning.
The choke performed admirably. The instructions recommended it for out to 30 yards, so that is where I started. I did not notice any issues related to installation or initial function. The patterns at 30 yards were noticeably tighter and more consistent than with my old modified choke. There were no significant gaps or flyers, and the shot distribution was even across the target.
I did experience a minor issue during the initial testing, though. After approximately 20 shots, the choke tube loosened slightly. After tightening with my choke wrench, I encountered no further issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of duck and goose hunting, the Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag has proven to be a reliable performer. It has held up well to constant use in muddy blinds and harsh weather conditions. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, and the black finish is still intact.
Cleaning the choke is a breeze. A quick scrub with a bronze brush and some solvent removes any plastic wad residue or fouling. I apply a thin coat of choke tube grease to the threads before reinstalling, ensuring smooth removal and preventing the choke from seizing in the barrel. The durability has exceeded my expectations. The choke is solid, and I expect to get many seasons of use out of it.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag offers a significant improvement in pattern density and consistency. It gives me the confidence to take slightly longer shots, knowing that I’m delivering a denser pattern on the target. It has undoubtedly improved my success rate in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag
Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge. This choke is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns.
- Constriction: Modified. The modified constriction provides a balance between pattern density and range.
- Compatibility: Mossberg Accu-Mag. It is designed to fit Mossberg shotguns with the Accu-Mag choke system.
- Shot Type: Compatible with steel shot. This is crucial for waterfowl hunting, where lead shot is often prohibited.
- Recommended Range: Out to 30 yds. This range is best for optimal pattern performance.
- Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel. The stainless-steel construction provides excellent durability and corrosion resistance.
- Finish: Black. The black finish helps protect against rust and reduces glare.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the choke’s performance and suitability for specific hunting situations. The modified constriction offers a versatile pattern suitable for various game birds, and the steel shot compatibility makes it ideal for waterfowl hunting. The 17-4 stainless steel ensures long-lasting durability, even in harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag performs its job exceptionally well. It consistently delivers tighter, more consistent patterns than the factory choke I was previously using. I found that I was consistently hitting targets at 30 yards.
The main strength of this choke is its ability to tighten patterns with steel shot, extending my effective range. I noticed some tightening of patterns out to around 40 yards, but the manufacturer recommendation of 30 yards remains the best benchmark. One weakness is that it’s not adjustable; it provides a single modified constriction. It exceeds my expectations by providing consistent patterns and increasing my confidence in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag is excellent. The 17-4 stainless steel feels robust and durable, and the black finish is evenly applied. The choke itself is relatively lightweight, so the weight doesn’t affect the balance of my shotgun.
The choke is simple to install and remove using a standard choke wrench. There’s no real learning curve involved. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense design that prioritizes function over aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag is built to last. The stainless-steel construction is resistant to rust and corrosion, and the black finish helps protect against wear and tear. I anticipate this choke lasting for many seasons.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a bronze brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. Applying choke tube grease to the threads prevents seizing and ensures easy removal.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Its customization options are limited since it’s a fixed-constriction choke.
It is compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Mossberg Accu-Mag chokes. Users may opt for different choke tubes for different hunting scenarios, but no customization is available.
Pros and Cons of Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: The Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag dramatically improves pattern density compared to factory chokes, resulting in more pellets on target.
- Extended Range: Provides better effective range for waterfowl hunting, allowing for longer, cleaner shots.
- Durable Construction: The 17-4 stainless-steel construction ensures long-lasting durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Steel Shot Compatibility: Safe to use with steel shot, making it ideal for waterfowl hunting where lead shot is prohibited.
- Easy to Clean & Maintain: Requires minimal maintenance and is easy to clean with standard gun cleaning tools.
Cons
- Fixed Constriction: It is a fixed constriction choke, limiting its versatility for different hunting scenarios.
- Limited Range Compared to Other Options: Some specialized waterfowl chokes provide more extended range but come at a higher price.
Who Should Buy Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag?
The Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag is perfect for waterfowl hunters seeking improved pattern density and range with steel shot without breaking the bank. It is also ideal for those with Mossberg shotguns using the Accu-Mag choke system. It is also well-suited for upland bird hunters needing a reliable choke with good range in thick cover.
Those seeking extreme long-range performance or adjustable constriction should skip this product and explore more specialized or adjustable choke options. Must-have accessories include a quality choke wrench and choke tube grease for proper installation and maintenance.
Conclusion on Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag
The Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag is an excellent upgrade for any waterfowl hunter using a Mossberg shotgun. It offers a noticeable improvement in pattern density and range, enhancing the chances of a successful hunt.
The price is justified by the improved performance and durability it provides. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to improve their shotgun’s performance without spending a fortune.
Don’t settle for mediocre patterns. Upgrade your shotgun with the Kick’s High Flyer Choke 12GA Mossberg Accu-Mag and experience the difference for yourself!