Let’s Talk About Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full
The Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full is designed to tighten buckshot patterns, providing increased range and accuracy. It’s an extended choke tube, meaning it protrudes slightly beyond the muzzle, which some argue aids in pattern consistency. Kicks Industries has a solid reputation, and this particular choke is tailored for Beretta Optima HP shotguns, a very popular platform.
My interest in this choke stemmed from persistent issues with buckshot spread. I’ve hunted deer with a shotgun for years, and achieving consistent, tight patterns beyond 30 yards was a constant challenge. The hope was that the Kicks Buck Kicker would significantly improve my effective range and reduce the risk of wounding animals.
Upon unboxing, the Kicks Buck Kicker immediately conveyed a sense of quality. The blackened stainless steel felt substantial and well-machined, hinting at its intended durability. It definitely felt like a step up from the factory chokes I’d been using.
Compared to the factory Beretta full choke and a similar extended choke from Carlson’s, the Kicks Buck Kicker has a more aggressive porting design. This is intended to reduce recoil and muzzle climb. I chose this over other options primarily due to Kicks Industries‘ reputation for specializing in chokes that deliver exceptionally tight patterns, specifically for buckshot.
My initial excitement was cautiously optimistic. I’ve been burned before by products promising the moon, but the build quality and reputation of Kicks Industries gave me hope. I was eager to get to the range and see if the Kicks Buck Kicker could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kicks Buck Kicker at my local shooting range, specifically targeting large paper targets at 25, 35, and 45 yards. The weather was clear and calm. I used Federal Premium 00 Buckshot, a load I’m very familiar with, to ensure a consistent baseline.
The difference in pattern tightness compared to my factory full choke was immediately noticeable. At 35 yards, the Kicks Buck Kicker held a significantly tighter group. The factory choke had flyers, but the Kicks Buck Kicker kept almost all pellets within a 12-inch circle.
The Kicks Buck Kicker was straightforward to install, requiring only a choke wrench. No issues arose during installation. The only surprise was the slightly increased muzzle report, likely due to the ported design.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Kicks Buck Kicker has proven to be exceptionally durable. I’ve put approximately 200 rounds through it, and there are no signs of wear or damage. The blackened finish has held up well.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent after each range session keeps it in pristine condition. Compared to my previous experiences with other choke tubes, the Kicks Buck Kicker has consistently delivered tighter patterns, justifying the investment. It has noticeably outperformed my factory choke tube and performed better than a similar choke from a competing brand.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kicks Industries brings years of expertise in choke tube design to this product. Their focus on performance and pattern optimization is well-known in the shooting community.
- Color: Available in Blackened or Black finish. This helps reduce glare and provides a tactical aesthetic.
- Fabric/Material: Constructed from Stainless Steel, the choke offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability. Stainless steel ensures a long lifespan, even with frequent use and exposure to harsh conditions.
- Gauge: 12 Gauge. This is the most common shotgun gauge, ensuring wide compatibility with 12-gauge shotguns.
- Choke Type: Beretta Optima HP. This thread pattern ensures compatibility with Beretta shotguns that use the Optima HP system.
- Additional Features: Extended design. It provides easier installation and removal, and potentially improves pattern consistency.
- Condition: New. This guarantees that the choke is free from defects and ready for immediate use.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the choke’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity, while the extended design and porting contribute to improved patterns and reduced recoil. Knowing that it is explicitly designed for Beretta Optima HP shotguns is essential.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full excels at tightening buckshot patterns. It delivers consistently tighter groups than factory chokes, extending the effective range of your shotgun. The choke’s design focuses primarily on optimizing buckshot patterns, giving it a specialized advantage.
The main strength is its ability to produce very tight patterns with 00 buckshot at distances beyond 30 yards. A potential improvement would be offering different constriction options within the Buck Kicker line for varying distances and buckshot sizes. It definitely met my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The stainless steel construction feels robust and well-made. It instills confidence in its ability to withstand repeated use and harsh conditions. The choke tube’s weight is comparable to other extended choke tubes, and it balances the shotgun nicely.
The Kicks Buck Kicker is user-friendly, requiring only a standard choke wrench for installation and removal. There’s virtually no learning curve involved. Even a novice shooter can quickly install and start seeing improved patterns.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel construction, the Kicks Buck Kicker should last for many years with proper care. Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion. Regular cleaning is all that’s needed to maintain its performance.
Cleaning involves a bore brush, solvent, and a quick wipe down with a clean cloth. The choke’s simple design makes it easy to disassemble (if necessary) and clean thoroughly. Overall, it is a breeze to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Buck Kicker doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone choke tube. However, it’s compatible with any standard choke wrench designed for Beretta Optima HP chokes.
There aren’t many customization options for a choke tube beyond choosing different constrictions. The key consideration is selecting the appropriate choke for the specific load and intended range. The Kicks Buck Kicker focuses specifically on buckshot, so understanding the size of buckshot being used is critical.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full
Pros
- Significantly tighter buckshot patterns at extended ranges.
- Durable stainless steel construction for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and maintain, even for novice users.
- Specifically designed for Beretta Optima HP shotguns, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Noticeably reduces flyer pellets, increasing accuracy and ethical hunting range.
Cons
- Specialized for buckshot only, not ideal for birdshot or slugs.
- Slightly increased muzzle report due to the ported design.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full?
The Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full is perfect for deer hunters who rely on buckshot in areas with dense cover or restrictions on rifle use. It’s also ideal for law enforcement officers who use shotguns for breaching or close-quarters combat. Anyone looking to maximize the effective range and pattern density of buckshot loads will benefit from this choke.
This product might not be suitable for bird hunters or those who primarily shoot slugs. Its specialized design is optimized for buckshot, and other choke options would be more appropriate for different applications. If you primarily hunt waterfowl or use your shotgun for skeet or trap, you would likely not find this choke tube useful.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality choke wrench designed for Beretta Optima HP chokes. This will ensure proper installation and removal without damaging the choke tube or barrel. Also, consider purchasing a choke tube case for safe storage and transport.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full
The Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about improving their buckshot performance. It delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and increased effective range, making it a valuable addition to any shotgunner’s arsenal. The increased accuracy and pattern density can make the difference between a successful hunt and a wounded animal.
The price is justified by the noticeable improvement in performance and the durable construction of the choke tube. The investment is well worth it for the peace of mind and increased confidence it provides in the field. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kicks Buck Kicker to any hunter or shooter looking to maximize their buckshot accuracy and range.
If you are struggling with inconsistent buckshot patterns and want to extend your effective range, the Kicks Industries Kicks Buck Kicker Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Hp Full is the solution you’ve been looking for. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference. Don’t leave your next hunt to chance.