Let’s Talk About Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl promises tighter patterns and increased range for your 12-gauge shotgun. The Kicks Industries’ High Flyer series is known for its unique ported design, and this particular choke, a Modified Cylinder for Remington chokes, aims to deliver a versatile performance boost. This choke aims to make a noticeable difference whether you’re hunting waterfowl or shooting clays.
I’ve always struggled with consistent patterns when using factory choke tubes in my Remington 870. Birds consistently flared outside my effective range, and I suspected my factory choke was partly to blame. I needed a choke that could tighten my patterns without sacrificing too much spread at close range, so I began looking at aftermarket options.
My first impression of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl was positive. The machining looked clean, the porting was even, and the black finish was smooth and professional. It felt heavier and more substantial than the factory choke it was replacing.
I was considering the Carlson’s Cremator and the Patternmaster Code Black Duck choke tubes, both popular choices. Ultimately, I chose the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl because of its Modified Cylinder constriction, intending it to be a versatile all-around choke for various hunting scenarios. I also liked the idea of the ported design, hoping it would reduce recoil.
Honestly, I was excited but also cautiously optimistic. Aftermarket chokes can be hit or miss, but I was hoping the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl would live up to the hype and improve my shotgun’s performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl at my local sporting clays range first, followed by a dove hunt a week later. The clays range allowed me to pattern the choke at various distances with different loads. The dove hunt provided a more realistic scenario to assess its performance in the field.
The weather was dry and slightly breezy at the range, but the dove hunt presented more challenging conditions with gusty winds. Regardless, the choke performed admirably. The clays broke with authority, and the doves folded quickly.
I found the choke easy to install and remove using a choke wrench. There was no noticeable difference in recoil reduction, but my patterns definitely tightened up compared to the factory modified choke I had been using. I did not need much time to get used to it.
The only initial issue was slightly more noticeable muzzle blast due to the ported design, but it was not a major concern. There were no significant surprises, only a noticeable improvement in pattern density.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use throughout the waterfowl and upland bird seasons, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has been used in everything from duck blinds in freezing temperatures to hot, dusty quail fields.
The choke tube shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The finish remains intact, and there is no indication of rust or corrosion despite frequent exposure to moisture and mud. The Stainless Steel construction appears to be very durable.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent after each use keeps it in top condition. Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl has significantly outperformed them in terms of pattern consistency and overall effective range. I’m incredibly pleased with its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns with Remington choke threads. It features a Modified Cylinder constriction, which is tighter than Cylinder but less restrictive than Modified. The choke is constructed from Stainless Steel with a black finish for corrosion resistance.
Key Specifications:
- Gauge: 12
- Choke Tube System: Remington Choke
- Choke Type: Cylinder Modified
- Gun Make: Remington
- Additional Features: Ported
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Color: Black
These specifications are crucial for optimal performance. The Modified Cylinder constriction offers versatility, allowing for effective shots at both close and mid-ranges. The Stainless Steel construction ensures durability and longevity, while the ported design is intended to reduce recoil and muzzle jump, improving follow-up shots.
Performance & Functionality
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl excels in delivering consistent and dense patterns, making it effective for various hunting and sporting applications. The Modified Cylinder constriction provides a good balance between pattern density and spread, making it a versatile choice for different ranges.
The main strength of this choke lies in its ability to produce tighter patterns than a standard modified choke, particularly at distances of 30-40 yards. While recoil reduction is not significant, the enhanced pattern density more than compensates for it. The choke meets and exceeds expectations.
The design of the choke is robust, featuring a knurled end for easy installation and removal. The weight is noticeable but not excessive, contributing to the overall stability of the shotgun. The build quality is high, with clean machining and a durable finish.
The choke is easy to install using a choke wrench, and there is no noticeable learning curve. It is straightforward to use and fits securely in the shotgun. The knurled end is a nice touch.
Durability & Maintenance
The Stainless Steel construction of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl suggests it will last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication will prevent corrosion and maintain optimal performance.
Maintaining the choke is simple: cleaning after each use to remove powder residue and applying a light coat of oil. The robust construction and durable finish make it resistant to wear and tear. It is simple to maintain and repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl does not come with any additional accessories. The primary customization option is the choice of different constrictions within the High Flyer series, such as Full or Improved Cylinder, depending on the shooter’s specific needs.
The choke is compatible with any Remington 12-gauge shotgun that accepts Remington-style choke tubes. While there are no direct accessories, the user can experiment with different shot sizes and loads to optimize performance.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl
Pros
- Delivers consistently tight and dense patterns, improving effective range.
- Durable Stainless Steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Versatile Modified Cylinder constriction suitable for various hunting scenarios.
- Easy to install and maintain, with a user-friendly design.
- Ported design helps to slightly reduce muzzle jump.
Cons
- The ported design can increase muzzle blast, which may be noticeable to some shooters.
- Recoil reduction is minimal.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl?
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl is perfect for hunters seeking to improve their shotgun’s effective range and pattern density, particularly for waterfowl and upland bird hunting. It is also well-suited for sporting clays shooters who want consistent and reliable performance.
This choke is not ideal for shooters primarily engaged in close-range shooting where a wider pattern is preferable. Those highly sensitive to muzzle blast might also want to consider a non-ported choke. No must-have accessories or modifications needed.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl is an excellent aftermarket choke that delivers on its promises of improved pattern density and effective range. The Stainless Steel construction ensures durability, and the Modified Cylinder constriction offers versatility for various shooting applications.
At $67.79, the price is justified given the performance gains and build quality. I would absolutely recommend the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Mod Cyl to anyone looking to enhance their Remington 12-gauge shotgun’s performance. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference a quality choke can make!