Let’s Talk About Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 is a specialized choke tube designed for 20-gauge shotguns with a Remington choke system. Marketed towards turkey hunters and sporting clays enthusiasts, this choke promises tighter patterns and improved performance. Kicks Industries aims to deliver a product that maximizes shot density at longer ranges, leading to cleaner kills and higher scores.
My quest for a better turkey choke led me to the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560. For years, I’d been struggling with inconsistent patterns from my trusty 20-gauge, especially beyond 30 yards. I needed a choke that could reliably deliver a dense, tight pattern at typical turkey hunting distances.
Upon receiving the choke, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and aggressive porting. The stainless steel felt solid and well-machined. The rear-facing, crimped angled turret gave it a distinct, almost menacing appearance.
Compared to my factory full choke and a competing brand’s turkey choke, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder stood out with its unique design. The other chokes lacked the pronounced porting and the specialized internal geometry promised by Kicks Industries. I chose the Kicks Gobblin Thunder hoping its innovative design would translate into superior performance in the field.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the promise of tighter patterns, but also slightly skeptical of the claims made by some specialized chokes. Only time and testing would reveal the true potential of the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first testing session took place at my local shooting range, using a variety of 20-gauge turkey loads. I wanted to evaluate pattern density and consistency at 20, 30, and 40 yards. The weather was clear and calm, providing ideal conditions for accurate testing.
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder performed admirably, delivering noticeably tighter patterns compared to my factory full choke. At 30 yards, the difference was significant, with a denser core and fewer flyers. Recoil felt slightly reduced, likely due to the ported design venting gases.
Initially, the installation was simple, but I did notice that the choke required a bit more torque to seat properly compared to other chokes I’ve used. Also, the aggressive porting created a noticeable increase in muzzle blast felt by nearby shooters.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including a turkey hunting trip and multiple range sessions, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder has proven to be a reliable performer. The stainless steel construction shows no signs of rust or corrosion. Cleaning is relatively straightforward, requiring only a bore brush and solvent after each use.
The choke continues to deliver consistent patterns, even after repeated firing. There has been no noticeable degradation in performance. It noticeably outperformed my previous factory choke, providing tighter groups at longer ranges.
Maintaining the choke is quite simple, requiring a standard shotgun cleaning kit. I run a bore brush through it with solvent after each shooting session. Overall, the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 has exceeded my initial expectations and become a permanent fixture in my turkey hunting setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560
Specifications
- Gauge: 20-gauge, designed specifically for 20-gauge shotguns. This ensures proper fit and optimal performance.
- Choke Tube System: Remington Choke, compatible with shotguns using the Remington choke thread pattern. This is a widely used system, increasing the number of compatible firearms.
- Diameter: 0.56 inches, an extra-full choke constriction designed for tight patterns. This constriction is ideal for turkey hunting and other applications where accuracy is paramount.
- Material: Stainless Steel, providing excellent durability and corrosion resistance. This material choice ensures a long lifespan even in harsh environments.
- Ported Design: Features a ported design to reduce recoil and muzzle rise. This can improve follow-up shots and overall shooting comfort.
- Rear Facing Crimped Angled Turret: The rear-facing crimped angled turret is designed to manipulate the shot pattern for optimal performance. This proprietary design feature sets it apart from competitors.
- 20 Grooves: The choke tube has 20 grooves designed to tighten patterns on the shot. This feature helps the shooter to put tighter patterns on the target.
- Gun Make: Remington, specifically designed for Remington shotguns.
- Color: Black, providing a low-profile and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Additional Features: Ported
These specifications combine to create a choke tube designed for maximum performance and durability. The tight constriction, coupled with the ported design, offers a balance of tight patterns and reduced recoil.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 excels at producing exceptionally tight and consistent patterns at extended ranges. This translates to more ethical and successful turkey hunts. It is remarkably reliable.
The choke’s greatest strength lies in its ability to deliver dense patterns beyond 30 yards, a range where many factory chokes struggle. A minor weakness is the increased muzzle blast caused by the porting. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a specialized turkey choke.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder is constructed from high-quality stainless steel. It feels solid and well-made in hand, promising long-term durability. Its design is functional rather than flashy, prioritizing performance over aesthetics.
The choke is very user-friendly. Installation is simple and quick.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. With proper cleaning and lubrication, this choke should last for many seasons. It is very easy to maintain & repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 does not come with any accessories. However, its compatibility with the Remington choke system means it can be used with a wide variety of 20-gauge shotguns that accept Remington chokes. There are no specific customization options for the choke itself, but users can customize their shotgun with different sights, stocks, and other accessories to further enhance performance.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: Delivers remarkably tight and consistent patterns, especially at longer ranges.
- Reduced Recoil: Ported design effectively reduces recoil and muzzle rise, improving shooting comfort.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion.
- Easy Installation: Simple to install and remove using a choke tube wrench.
- Improved Accuracy: Provides increased confidence and accuracy when targeting turkeys at extended distances.
Cons
- Increased Muzzle Blast: Porting can create a noticeable increase in muzzle blast, which may be bothersome to some shooters.
- Steel Shot Only: Designed for steel shot only; lead shot is not recommended.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560?
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 is perfect for dedicated turkey hunters seeking to maximize their shotgun’s performance at longer ranges. It is also suitable for sporting clays shooters looking for tighter patterns. Someone who wants a durable, reliable, and effective choke tube that delivers consistent results will also benefit.
Hunters who primarily use lead shot should avoid this product. Also, shooters who are sensitive to muzzle blast or who primarily hunt in areas with noise restrictions may want to consider alternative options.
A must-have accessory is a quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal. Consider purchasing a bore snake for quick and easy cleaning in the field.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 is a highly effective choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and improved performance. While the increased muzzle blast may be a drawback for some, the benefits in terms of accuracy and range far outweigh this minor inconvenience. At $69.99, the price is justified by the quality of construction and the noticeable improvement in performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke to any turkey hunter looking to improve their odds of success. It is a reliable and effective tool that can make a significant difference in the field. Don’t hesitate; upgrade your 20-gauge and experience the Kicks Gobblin Thunder difference for yourself!