KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA Review

First Thoughts on the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA

The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA, specifically the Browning Invector Plus X-Full model, promises tighter patterns and extended range for waterfowl hunters and clay shooters alike. Marketed by Kicks Chokes as a premium aftermarket choke tube, it aims to enhance shotgun performance. This particular model, boasting an X-Full constriction for 12-gauge shotguns with the Browning Invector Plus system, is designed to deliver dense, consistent patterns at longer distances.

My quest for this choke began with a frustrating duck season last year. Too many birds were escaping with a few feathers ruffled but ultimately unscathed. I needed a choke that could reliably reach out and touch those high-flying mallards, pushing my effective range just a little further.

My initial impression upon receiving the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA was positive. The matte finish appeared robust and the threading was clean and precise. The weight felt appropriate; not too heavy to disrupt the gun’s balance, but substantial enough to suggest quality construction.

Comparing it to my stock Browning full choke and a Carlson’s extended modified choke, the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA had a noticeably tighter constriction. Visually, the internal design seemed to direct the shot column in a more controlled manner. I chose the KICKS choke over a Patternmaster Code Black Duck primarily because of its reputation for consistent patterns with a wider variety of loads, and over a Briley Spectrum for its more aggressive price point.

Straight out of the box, I was excited. This choke looked and felt like a serious piece of gear. I was eager to see if it could live up to its claims on the range and in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA was at the local sporting clays range. I wanted a controlled environment to evaluate its pattern density and consistency before heading into the marsh. The weather was typical for early fall – crisp, cool, and slightly breezy.

I primarily used 1 1/8 oz #7.5 target loads and 1 1/4 oz #6 hunting loads during this initial test. The KICKS choke significantly tightened the patterns compared to my modified choke, resulting in more broken clays at longer distances. The difference was immediately noticeable on the long crossing targets, where I consistently dusted clays that previously only chipped or survived.

One initial surprise was the increased felt recoil. The tighter constriction seemed to amplify the kick, though it was manageable. There were no other immediate issues, and I left the range confident in its potential.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of hunting waterfowl and several more range sessions, the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA has proven to be a reliable performer. There are no signs of significant wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic blemishes. The matte finish has held up well to the rigors of the marsh.

Cleaning the choke is straightforward. A quick scrub with a bronze brush and solvent removes any plastic wad residue or carbon buildup. I apply a thin coat of choke tube grease to the threads before reinstalling it to prevent seizing.

Compared to my previous choke setups, the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA consistently delivers tighter, more uniform patterns at longer distances. This translates to cleaner kills on waterfowl and more broken clays on the range. It has genuinely improved my shooting performance, exceeding my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA

Specifications

• Caliber: 12 Gauge. This choke is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns, the most common gauge for hunting and sporting clays.
• Choke Constriction: X-Full. The X-Full constriction creates extremely tight patterns, ideal for long-range shots.
• Compatibility: Browning Invector Plus. It is specifically threaded for Browning Invector Plus choke systems found in many modern Browning and Winchester shotguns.
• Material: Not specified by Kicks Chokes, but assumed to be high-quality stainless steel. The material provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability.
• Intended Use: Waterfowl Hunting, Sporting Clays. This choke excels in situations where longer shots and dense patterns are required.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the choke’s performance. The X-Full constriction, combined with the specific threading, dictates the pattern density and effective range, making it a specialized tool for long-distance shooting.

Performance & Functionality

The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA performs exceptionally well in its intended role: extending the effective range of a 12-gauge shotgun. Accuracy is significantly improved at distances beyond 40 yards. Reliability has been flawless after hundreds of rounds fired.

The choke’s strength lies in its ability to consistently produce tight, even patterns, allowing for more confident shots at distant targets. One potential weakness is its limited versatility. The X-Full constriction is not suitable for close-range shooting or situations where a wider pattern is desired.

It meets, and in some cases, exceeds expectations. It has helped me bag more birds and break more clays.

Design & Ergonomics

The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA features a simple, functional design. The matte finish is non-reflective and durable. The external design allows for easy identification of the choke without removing it from the shotgun.

The choke is user-friendly. Installation and removal are straightforward using a standard choke tube wrench. There is no learning curve involved, assuming the user is familiar with changing choke tubes.

Durability & Maintenance

The stainless steel construction of the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA suggests it will last for many years with proper care. The choke has shown no signs of corrosion or degradation after prolonged exposure to moisture and various weather conditions. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining optimal performance and preventing seizing.

Accessories and Customization Options

The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA does not come with any included accessories beyond the standard packaging. There are no specific customization options for the choke itself. However, users can experiment with different shot sizes and loads to fine-tune their patterns and performance. The choke is compatible with most standard choke tube wrenches designed for Browning Invector Plus systems.

Pros and Cons of KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA

Who Should Buy KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA?

Perfect for: Experienced waterfowl hunters who frequently encounter long-range shots on ducks or geese, sporting clays shooters looking to break more targets at extended distances, and anyone seeking to maximize the effective range of their 12-gauge shotgun with the Browning Invector Plus system.

Who should skip this product? Beginners who are still developing their shooting fundamentals, hunters who primarily hunt in close-range environments (e.g., timber hunting), and those sensitive to increased recoil.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality choke tube wrench is essential for easy installation and removal. Experimenting with different shot sizes and loads will help fine-tune the choke’s performance to specific hunting or shooting scenarios.

Conclusion on KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA

The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA Browning Invector Plus X-Full is a specialized tool designed to excel in specific shooting scenarios. Its primary function is to extend the effective range of a 12-gauge shotgun by producing exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at longer distances. While it may not be the most versatile choke on the market, it delivers on its promise of improved long-range performance.

The price of $44.99 is justified by the noticeable improvement in pattern density and the overall build quality. The KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA is a worthwhile investment for experienced shooters who need to reach out and touch distant targets.

I would personally recommend the KICKS HIGH FLYER CHOKE 12GA to any waterfowl hunter or sporting clays enthusiast looking to gain an edge at long range. Step up your long game and experience the difference!