Let’s Talk About Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 is a specialized choke tube designed to enhance the performance of your 12-gauge shotgun, specifically when hunting turkeys. This aftermarket choke aims to deliver tighter patterns and increased range, turning your shotgun into a true gobbler-getter. With its ported design and tight constriction, it promises to be a game-changer for serious turkey hunters.
My quest for the perfect turkey choke began years ago, driven by frustration with inconsistent patterns from factory chokes. I was tired of seeing birds just outside my effective range. I needed a choke that could deliver consistent, dense patterns at longer distances, and the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 seemed to offer just that.
Upon unboxing, the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 immediately impressed me with its solid feel. The stainless-steel construction exuded durability, and the black finish gave it a tactical look. The ported design was clean and purposeful, suggesting careful engineering.
I considered other popular turkey chokes like the Primos Jelly Head Max and the Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke. I chose the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 due to its reputation for extremely tight patterns and the promise of reduced recoil thanks to the ported design. Ultimately, I was banking on its ability to truly extend my range.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. The choke certainly looked the part. The true test, however, would be on the range and in the turkey woods. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 took place at my local shooting range, using a Remington 870 12-gauge. I patterned the choke with various turkey loads, including Winchester Long Beard XR, Federal Premium Grand Slam, and some handloaded shells. The weather was clear and calm, providing ideal conditions for patterning.
The choke performed admirably, producing significantly tighter patterns than my factory full choke. At 40 yards, the Winchester Long Beard XR consistently placed 85-90% of pellets within a 10-inch circle. There was minimal perceived recoil.
Installation was straightforward, requiring only a choke wrench. After about 20 shots, I noticed a slight buildup of powder residue around the ports, but it didn’t seem to affect performance. The difference in pattern density was immediately apparent, boosting my confidence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a full turkey season, the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 has proven to be a reliable performer. It’s endured rain, mud, and numerous cleanings without showing any signs of corrosion or wear. The black finish has held up well.
I make sure to clean it thoroughly after each use with a choke tube cleaner and a brass brush to remove any stubborn residue. It remains easy to install and remove.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 offers a noticeable improvement in pattern density and consistency. It’s given me the confidence to take ethical shots at longer ranges, resulting in several successful hunts. I am able to consistently put birds on the ground that would have otherwise walked.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665
Specifications
Manufacturer: Kicks Industries is well known in the industry. They have a reputation for quality choke tubes.
Gauge: 12-gauge, specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns. This ensures proper fit and function within 12-gauge barrels.
Choke Tube System: Remington Choke, compatible with Remington shotguns using the Rem Choke system. This provides a wide range of shotgun compatibility.
Diameter: 0.665 inches, providing an extremely tight constriction for dense patterns. This tight diameter is perfect for turkey hunting at extended ranges.
Material: Stainless Steel, offering excellent durability and corrosion resistance. The stainless-steel construction makes for a choke that withstands harsh conditions.
Color: Black, providing a non-reflective and tactical appearance. The black finish also helps protect against rust.
Gun Make: Remington, designed for use with Remington shotguns. It will also work on other shotguns using the Remington choke system.
Additional Features: Ported, designed to reduce recoil and muzzle jump. The ports also help to vent gases.
These specifications are important because they dictate the choke’s performance and suitability for turkey hunting. The tight constriction and ported design work together to deliver tight patterns and manageable recoil. This makes for a choke that will make you a more successful turkey hunter.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 excels at its primary job: delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges. At 40 yards, it consistently places a high percentage of pellets in the vital area of a turkey target. It makes your shotgun a more effective tool.
The choke’s strength lies in its ability to maintain pattern density at longer distances. One slight weakness is that extremely tight patterns may be less forgiving at close range, requiring precise aiming. Overall, it exceeds expectations, providing a significant advantage in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 is built with high-quality stainless steel, giving it a robust and durable feel. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable burden to the shotgun. The black finish is durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Installation and removal are simple, requiring only a choke wrench. The ported design appears well-executed, with clean and consistent port placement. There is minimal to no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless-steel construction ensures long-lasting durability, even under harsh conditions. Routine cleaning with a choke tube cleaner and a brass brush is all that’s needed to maintain performance. The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 is built to withstand years of use with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone product. However, its compatibility with the Remington Choke system means it can be used with a wide range of Remington shotguns. You can pair it with different brands of turkey loads to fine-tune your pattern.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665
Pros
- Extremely Tight Patterns: Delivers consistently dense patterns at extended ranges, increasing effective range. It will allow you to take ethical shots at further distances.
Cons
- Close-Range Forgiveness: Extremely tight patterns may be less forgiving at close range, requiring precise aiming. The patterns are so tight that you must be more precise.
Reduced Recoil: The ported design effectively reduces recoil and muzzle jump, improving follow-up shots. It makes shooting magnum loads more comfortable.
Durable Construction: The stainless-steel construction ensures long-lasting performance, even under harsh conditions. The steel will not rust.
Easy Installation: Simple to install and remove with a standard choke wrench. This makes it easy to switch chokes depending on the hunting situation.
Improved Confidence: Knowing your shotgun is capable of delivering consistent patterns at longer ranges boosts confidence in the field. You will be more prepared when a shot presents itself.
Residue Buildup: The ported design can accumulate powder residue, requiring regular cleaning. The ports can clog if you fail to clean it.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665?
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 is perfect for serious turkey hunters who want to maximize their shotgun’s range and pattern density. It’s also ideal for those who hunt in areas where longer shots are common. If you want to give yourself the best chance at harvesting a mature gobbler, this is the choke for you.
This product is not ideal for hunters who primarily hunt in thick woods where shots are typically very close. It may also not be necessary for those who are satisfied with the performance of their factory choke. There are better options if you hunt in the woods.
A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal. It’s also beneficial to experiment with different brands and types of turkey loads to find the optimal combination for your shotgun. You want to find the load that works best with your gun.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 is an exceptional turkey choke that delivers on its promises of tight patterns and extended range. Its durable construction, ported design, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters. It is a quality product.
At around $70, the price is justified given the significant improvement in performance compared to factory chokes. The value lies in the increased confidence and success it provides in the field. You are investing in a tool that will help you harvest more birds.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Rem Choke .665 to any turkey hunter looking to take their shotgun’s performance to the next level. It’s a game-changer that can turn close calls into successful hunts. Invest in your hunt, upgrade your choke, and experience the difference for yourself!