Let’s Talk About Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia isn’t just another choke tube; it’s a specialized piece of equipment designed for turkey hunters who demand tight patterns and maximum downrange energy from their 20-gauge shotguns. Kicks Industries is known for its innovative choke designs, and this one aims to deliver the performance needed to bag that elusive gobbler. It blends constriction with ported design to enhance pattern density and reduce recoil.
My journey to the Kicks Gobblin Thunder began with a frustrating string of missed turkeys. My factory choke was producing inconsistent patterns, leaving too much room for error. I needed a choke that could consistently deliver tight, dense patterns at typical turkey hunting ranges, and after researching various options, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder stood out due to its reputation for performance and the fact that it was specifically designed for turkey hunting.
Unboxing the Kicks Gobblin Thunder revealed a well-machined, solid-looking choke tube. The black finish appeared durable, and the ported design gave it a distinctly aggressive look. The weight felt substantial, suggesting quality materials and construction, and I immediately appreciated the robust feel that promised resilience in harsh conditions.
Compared to a standard flush-mounted choke or even a more generic extended choke, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder felt like a significant upgrade. I considered a couple of other turkey chokes from different manufacturers, but the Kicks Industries name and the specific design features geared toward pattern density swayed my decision. The promise of a .560 diameter constriction, coupled with the recoil-reducing ports, sealed the deal.
My first impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism. I was eager to see if it would live up to the hype and transform my turkey hunting experience. The Kicks Gobblin Thunder looked the part, now it was time to see if it could deliver in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kicks Gobblin Thunder at my local shooting range, focusing on pattern density at 30 and 40 yards. The weather was clear and calm, providing ideal conditions for evaluating the choke’s performance. I used a variety of 20-gauge turkey loads to determine which ammunition performed best with this particular choke.
The choke performed exceptionally well, producing noticeably tighter and denser patterns compared to my previous choke tube. Recoil was also noticeably reduced, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. I was genuinely impressed with the immediate improvement in pattern consistency and the added comfort of reduced recoil.
There were no major issues after the first range session, but I did notice that the choke required a bit more effort to clean due to the ported design. It’s a minor inconvenience given the improvement in performance, but it’s something to be aware of.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during turkey season, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my shotgun. It has held up well to the rigors of the hunt, including exposure to rain, mud, and the occasional accidental bump against trees. The choke remains in excellent condition, showing no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scratches.
Maintenance involves a thorough cleaning after each hunting trip, paying particular attention to the ports. A solvent and a small brush are essential for removing any built-up residue. Compared to my previous experiences with other choke tubes, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder outperforms them in terms of pattern density, recoil reduction, and overall reliability in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia is designed specifically for 20-gauge shotguns with a Winchester choke system. Its constriction is precisely .560 inches, optimized for tight patterns at typical turkey hunting ranges. The choke is constructed from durable stainless steel for longevity and resistance to corrosion.
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder is finished in black and features a ported design to reduce recoil and muzzle rise. It is designed to extend beyond the end of the barrel for easier installation and removal. These specifications are important because they directly contribute to the choke’s ability to deliver consistent, dense patterns, reduce recoil, and withstand the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia excels at its primary job: delivering exceptionally tight and consistent patterns. This significantly increases the hunter’s chances of a clean kill, especially at longer ranges. The ported design effectively reduces felt recoil, making it easier to stay on target for follow-up shots.
The main strength of the Kicks Gobblin Thunder is its ability to consistently produce tight patterns with a variety of turkey loads. A potential area for improvement is the cleaning process, which requires a bit more attention due to the ported design. Overall, the choke meets and exceeds expectations for a specialized turkey choke.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Kicks Gobblin Thunder is excellent. The stainless steel construction feels solid and durable, and the black finish provides a sleek, professional look. The weight is appropriate for a choke of this type, adding a slight amount of muzzle weight that can help stabilize the shotgun.
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder is designed for ease of use. Its extended design allows for quick and easy installation and removal with a choke wrench. There is no significant learning curve associated with using the choke, as it functions like any other screw-in choke tube.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel construction, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder is expected to last for many years with proper care. The choke is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it suitable for use in a variety of weather conditions. Maintenance primarily involves regular cleaning to remove powder residue and ensure optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Gobblin Thunder does not typically come with any additional accessories beyond basic packaging. However, it is compatible with standard choke wrenches designed for Winchester choke systems. While the choke itself doesn’t offer many customization options, the choice of turkey loads can significantly impact its performance.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: Delivers consistently tight and dense patterns at typical turkey hunting ranges, increasing the chances of a clean kill.
- Reduced Recoil: The ported design effectively reduces felt recoil, making it easier to stay on target for follow-up shots and improving overall comfort.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality stainless steel for long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion.
- Easy Installation: The extended design allows for quick and easy installation and removal with a standard choke wrench.
- Improved Confidence: Knowing that your shotgun is capable of delivering consistent patterns boosts confidence in the field.
Cons
- The ported design requires more thorough cleaning to remove powder residue and maintain optimal performance.
- The aggressive constriction (.560 Dia) may not be suitable for all turkey loads or hunting scenarios, requiring some experimentation to find the best combination.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia?
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand the best possible performance from their 20-gauge shotguns. It is well-suited for those who prioritize tight patterns, reduced recoil, and durable construction. It is also a great choice for hunters who are willing to experiment with different loads to find the optimal combination for their specific shotgun and hunting conditions.
Hunters primarily focused on close-range shooting or those who prefer a more open pattern should skip this product. Those who are unwilling to dedicate the time needed for thorough cleaning of the ported design may also want to consider other options. A must-have accessory is a quality choke wrench for easy installation and removal, along with a selection of different turkey loads to experiment with.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia is a top-tier choke tube that delivers exceptional performance for turkey hunting. Its ability to produce consistently tight patterns and reduce recoil makes it a valuable addition to any serious turkey hunter’s arsenal. The price is justified by the noticeable improvement in pattern density and the overall quality of the product.
I would personally recommend the Kicks Gobblin Thunder to anyone looking to maximize the performance of their 20-gauge shotgun for turkey hunting. If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and missed opportunities, invest in the Kicks Gobblin Thunder and experience the difference for yourself. It might just be the edge you need to finally bag that trophy gobbler.