First Impressions of Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube
The Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube promises tighter patterns and improved downrange performance for buckshot loads, a crucial aspect for any serious hunter or tactical shooter. This particular model, designed for Beretta Extrema shotguns and featuring a Full .695 constriction, piqued my interest because I’ve long struggled with inconsistent buckshot patterns in my own Beretta. For years, I’ve chased that perfect balance between spread and stopping power, spending countless hours on the range experimenting with different loads and chokes.
I was looking for a choke tube that could reliably deliver tight, consistent patterns at extended ranges, giving me confidence in the field and minimizing the risk of a wounded animal escaping. The Kicks Industries name carries a certain weight in the shotgun world, so my expectations were reasonably high.
Upon receiving the BuckKicker, my initial impression was positive. The choke tube felt solid and well-machined, with a clean, durable finish that hinted at quality craftsmanship. The .695 constriction was clearly marked, and the overall design appeared robust, ready to withstand the rigors of heavy use.
While I haven’t tested other specific Kicks Industries choke tubes directly, I’ve used Carlson’s and Patternmaster chokes with similar constrictions. My initial sense was that the BuckKicker’s build quality felt comparable, though the aggressive porting design seemed potentially more effective for recoil reduction. I was definitely excited to get this choke tube out to the range and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube was at my local outdoor shooting range. I primarily tested it with Federal Premium and Winchester Super-X 00 buckshot loads, the two most common brands I use for deer hunting in my region. The range was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for evaluating pattern density.
I immediately noticed a significant difference in pattern tightness compared to the factory modified choke I typically use. The buckshot grouped noticeably tighter at 25 and 40 yards, with fewer flyers and a more consistent spread. The choke tube was easy to install, and I did not observe any loosening or misthreading during or after use.
After the first range session, I was pleased with the BuckKicker’s performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube has proven to be a reliable and durable performer. I’ve put it through its paces in various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme heat, without any noticeable degradation in performance. The choke tube continues to deliver consistent, tight patterns, giving me added confidence in my shots.
There are only minor signs of wear and tear with the choke tube. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a bore brush and solvent after each use to remove powder residue and plastic wad buildup. Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the BuckKicker significantly outperforms them in terms of pattern consistency and downrange accuracy.
The BuckKicker has exceeded my expectations and has become an essential part of my shotgun setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube
Specifications
The Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube is specifically designed for Beretta Extrema shotguns. It features a Full .695 constriction, optimized for buckshot loads. This specific choke tube is constructed from high-quality steel with a durable, corrosion-resistant finish. The .695 constriction aims to produce tighter patterns than more open chokes, increasing the effective range and stopping power of buckshot.
The choice of steel ensures longevity and resistance to wear, while the constriction directly impacts pattern density, making each specification critical to the choke’s performance. The BuckKicker choke has external porting intended to reduce recoil and muzzle climb.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube excels at producing consistently tight patterns with buckshot, significantly improving downrange accuracy. The tighter patterns mean more pellets impacting the target at longer ranges. While recoil reduction is noticeable due to the porting, it’s not a dramatic difference.
The BuckKicker choke tube definitely meets my expectations for pattern consistency. Some shooters may find the Full choke constriction too tight for very close-range encounters.
Design & Ergonomics
The BuckKicker boasts a robust build quality, featuring high-quality steel construction and a corrosion-resistant finish that feels durable and long-lasting. The choke tube adds minimal weight to the shotgun and sits flush with the muzzle, preserving the weapon’s balance. Installation is quick and easy, requiring only a choke tube wrench.
The design is utilitarian and functional, focusing on performance rather than aesthetics. Its solid construction gives me the confidence that it will stand up to the rigors of heavy use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube’s steel construction ensures excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is typically sufficient to maintain optimal performance. The choke tube should easily last for many years with proper care.
The choke’s robust design means it should withstand heavy usage and extreme weather conditions. I expect this choke to be a long term investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube itself doesn’t come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Beretta Extrema shotguns. While there are no direct customization options for the choke itself, its performance can be further enhanced by experimenting with different buckshot loads to find the optimal combination for a specific firearm.
Some shooters may consider adding a fiber optic front sight to their shotgun for improved target acquisition, particularly in low-light conditions. Aftermarket recoil pads can also further reduce recoil and enhance shooting comfort.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube
Pros
- Significantly tighter buckshot patterns compared to factory chokes, increasing effective range.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear.
- Noticeable recoil reduction due to the aggressive porting design, aiding in faster follow-up shots.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring only basic cleaning tools.
- Improved confidence in the field due to consistent pattern density, increasing the likelihood of ethical harvests.
Cons
- The Full .695 constriction may be too tight for very close-range encounters, potentially resulting in a smaller effective spread.
- Porting can increase muzzle blast and noise, which may be a concern for some shooters.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube?
The Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube is perfect for hunters who primarily use buckshot for deer, hogs, or other large game. It’s also ideal for tactical shooters who need tight, consistent patterns for home defense or law enforcement applications. Experienced shotgun users seeking to optimize their buckshot performance will appreciate the precision and reliability this choke tube provides.
Those who primarily hunt small game at close range, or those who are very recoil-sensitive, should skip this product. A more open choke or a less aggressively ported model would likely be a better choice for these users.
A quality choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory. Experimenting with different buckshot loads to find the best match for your shotgun is also highly recommended.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube
The Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube delivers on its promise of tighter, more consistent buckshot patterns, making it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters and tactical shooters. While the Full .695 constriction may not be suitable for all situations, its enhanced downrange accuracy and noticeable recoil reduction make it a valuable addition to any Beretta Extrema shotgun owner’s arsenal.
The price of $48.49 is justified by the improved performance and durable construction. I would personally recommend the Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube to anyone seeking to maximize the effectiveness of their buckshot loads.
Upgrade your shotgun today with the Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube and experience the difference a quality choke can make!