First Thoughts on the Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black choke tube promises tighter patterns and longer range for turkey hunters using the increasingly popular TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) loads. I’ve spent years chasing gobblers, and the limitations of standard lead shot have always been a consideration. The allure of a 20-gauge capable of delivering lethal patterns at distances once reserved for 12-gauge guns is undeniably strong.
My primary goal was to extend my effective range and boost my confidence in ethically harvesting turkeys. I was tired of watching birds hang up just outside my comfortable shooting distance. This Primos choke specifically claims to be designed for the new TSS loads, making it stand out from generic turkey chokes.
Unboxing the Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black revealed a solid-looking, black finished choke tube. The finish appeared durable and even, giving a good initial impression of the build quality. It’s designed for tool-free installation, a welcome feature that simplifies swapping chokes in the field.
I considered other options, like the Carlson’s Cremator and the Kick’s Gobblin’ Thunder, but ultimately chose the Primos offering due to its explicit design for TSS loads in Benelli/Beretta 20-gauge shotguns. Others might offer similar constriction, but Primos markets this one directly to TSS users. My first impression was optimistic; it felt like a well-made piece of gear that could deliver on its promises. I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black took place at my local shooting range. The weather was mild, around 60 degrees Fahrenheit with a light breeze. I patterned the choke with several different brands of TSS loads, focusing on the 1 5/8 oz. loads in #9 shot. Installation was indeed tool-free, threading smoothly into my Beretta A400 Xplor Action 20 gauge.
The first few shots were impressive. The patterns were noticeably tighter than with my factory full choke at 40 yards. There were no immediately apparent issues. I did observe a slightly increased recoil compared to lead loads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season using the Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black, I can speak to its durability and reliability. The choke held up extremely well, showing no signs of wear or damage despite frequent use and cleaning. It remained easy to install and remove.
The choke consistently delivered dense, even patterns, proving effective on several hunts. I did have one instance where I failed to properly clean the choke after shooting in wet conditions, leading to some difficulty removing it. Proper maintenance is essential. Compared to my previous experiences with lead shot, the Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black and TSS ammunition significantly extended my effective range and confidence. It outperformed my expectations in most situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
Specifications
- Gauge: 20 Gauge. This limits its use to 20-gauge shotguns.
- Choke size: Turkey. This indicates a very tight constriction, optimized for turkey hunting.
- Model: Benelli/Beretta. Specifically designed to fit Benelli and Beretta 20-gauge shotguns with interchangeable choke tubes.
- Finish: Black. Provides a non-reflective surface and some corrosion resistance.
- Specifically designed for TSS Loads. This is a crucial spec since not all chokes can handle the hardness of TSS.
- Tool-Free Installation and Removal. A convenient design eliminating the need for a choke wrench.
These specifications matter because they dictate compatibility, performance, and ease of use. The 20-gauge designation limits its application. The “Turkey” choke size and TSS load compatibility are critical for achieving the desired tight patterns at longer ranges. The tool-free design simplifies choke changes in the field, especially useful when switching between different hunting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black excels in its primary function: delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns with TSS ammunition. The choke provides excellent accuracy at distances of 40 yards and beyond. It inspires confidence when targeting gobblers at extended ranges.
One potential weakness is the extreme constriction, which can lead to overly tight patterns at very close ranges (inside 20 yards). This can result in a “golf ball” effect, where the pattern is so dense that it misses the vitals. The choke consistently met my expectations for pattern density and range extension with TSS loads.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with a durable black finish that resists wear and corrosion. The choke’s weight is negligible, adding no noticeable bulk to the shotgun. The tool-free design is exceptionally user-friendly. There’s no learning curve; simply thread it in by hand.
Durability & Maintenance
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black is built to last. Regular cleaning after each use is recommended to prevent fouling and ensure smooth removal. Proper maintenance will ensure long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the choke tube itself. There are no customization options for the choke itself. However, it works seamlessly with any Benelli/Beretta 20-gauge shotgun that accepts standard choke tubes. It is compatible with aftermarket fiber optic sights for improved target acquisition in low light.
Pros and Cons of Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and consistent patterns with TSS ammunition.
- Significantly extends effective range for 20-gauge turkey hunting.
- Tool-free installation and removal is incredibly convenient.
- Durable black finish resists wear and corrosion.
- Specifically designed for TSS loads, ensuring optimal performance.
Cons
- Extremely tight constriction can result in overly dense patterns at very close ranges.
- Only compatible with Benelli/Beretta 20-gauge shotguns with interchangeable choke tubes.
Who Should Buy Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black?
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black is perfect for turkey hunters using Benelli or Beretta 20-gauge shotguns who want to maximize the performance of TSS ammunition and extend their effective range. It’s also excellent for those who appreciate the convenience of tool-free choke changes. Hunters experiencing limited range with standard lead loads will benefit significantly.
Hunters primarily hunting in areas with very dense cover and extremely close-range shots might want to skip this product. They may find a more open choke to be more suitable. A must-have accessory is a high-quality turkey load specifically designed for TSS and a reliable cleaning kit for shotguns.
Conclusion on Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black is a highly effective choke tube that delivers on its promise of tight patterns and extended range with TSS ammunition. Its tool-free design and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters. The price is justified given the performance boost and added confidence it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke to anyone looking to optimize their 20-gauge for turkey hunting with TSS loads. If you are ready to take your turkey hunting to the next level, invest in the Primos TSS Jelly Head Benelli/Beretta 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black and experience the difference!