First Thoughts on the Primos TSS Jelly Head Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
Turkey hunting isn’t just a sport; it’s an obsession. The thrill of the chase, the outsmarting of a wary gobbler, and the satisfaction of a clean harvest – it’s a feeling like no other. When Primos released the TSS Jelly Head Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Steel Black, I was immediately intrigued.
My quest for the perfect pattern had been ongoing for years, a constant tinkering with different chokes and loads. I’ve seen too many birds missed or wounded due to inconsistent patterns at longer ranges. The promise of a super-tight, evenly spread pattern specifically designed for TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) loads was exactly what I was looking for. This choke promised to deliver the accuracy I needed to take down those stubborn, long-distance toms. I was using a factory full choke that, while decent, lacked consistency beyond 35 yards. The Primos TSS Jelly Head offered a specialized solution, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Upon receiving the choke, my initial impression was positive. The black finish was clean and professional, and the threads appeared well-machined. Compared to my older, externally-threaded choke tubes, the Primos TSS Jelly Head felt more refined and easier to handle. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, as I’ve been burned before by products promising the moon. This choke needed to prove its worth on the range before it earned a spot in my turkey vest.
Real-World Testing: Putting Primos TSS Jelly Head Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Primos TSS Jelly Head was at my local shooting range, under partly cloudy skies with a slight breeze. I paired the choke with a 12-gauge shotgun and a variety of TSS loads, ranging from #7 to #9 shot. I set up a turkey target at 40 yards, eager to see the pattern it would produce.
The difference compared to my old choke was immediately noticeable. The pattern was significantly tighter and more consistent, with a dense core of pellets centered on the turkey’s head and neck. There were no noticeable holes or flyers, just a devastatingly effective pattern. The ease of installation and removal without needing tools was also a huge plus, making swapping chokes in the field a breeze.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, both at the range and during actual turkey hunts, the Primos TSS Jelly Head has consistently delivered exceptional performance. There have been no signs of wear or tear. The choke remains easy to clean and maintain.
The true test came during a recent spring turkey season. I was able to cleanly harvest a mature gobbler at 45 yards. The bird went down instantly, proving the effectiveness of the tight pattern and the TSS load. It significantly outperformed my previous choke tube in terms of pattern density and range.
Breaking Down the Features of Primos TSS Jelly Head Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
Specifications
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Steel Black is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns with an Invector choke system. It is a turkey choke with a constriction optimized for TSS loads. The finish is a durable black coating that helps prevent rust and corrosion.
This choke tube is designed to be installed and removed without the need for any tools. This makes it incredibly convenient for quick changes in the field. Its optimized constriction and design contribute to its ability to produce extremely tight and evenly distributed patterns with TSS ammunition.
Performance & Functionality
The Primos TSS Jelly Head excels in delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns, especially when paired with TSS loads. Its primary strength lies in its ability to extend the effective range of a 12-gauge shotgun for turkey hunting. It reduces the chances of wounding or missing birds at longer distances.
The only potential weakness is that the extremely tight pattern might not be ideal for very close-range shots (under 20 yards). At close range, the pattern could be too tight, resulting in a smaller margin for error. However, for the vast majority of turkey hunting scenarios, the benefits far outweigh this minor drawback.
Design & Ergonomics
The Primos TSS Jelly Head’s build quality is excellent. It feels solid and well-made. The black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
The tool-less installation and removal system is a game-changer, making choke changes quick and easy. There’s no learning curve, and it’s simple to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The TSS Jelly Head is constructed from high-quality steel and features a durable black finish, ensuring a long lifespan. After weeks of use in various weather conditions, there are no signs of rust or corrosion.
Cleaning is simple. Just use a standard choke tube cleaning brush and solvent. The tool-less design further simplifies the maintenance process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Steel Black does not come with any specific accessories, as it is a standalone product. However, it’s compatible with any 12-gauge shotgun that utilizes the Invector choke system.
There are no specific customization options available for the choke itself. However, pairing it with different TSS loads allows for fine-tuning of the pattern and performance to match specific hunting conditions. Consider experimenting with various shot sizes (e.g., #7, #9) to find the optimal combination for your shotgun and typical hunting distances.
Pros and Cons of Primos TSS Jelly Head Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
Pros
- Delivers extremely tight and consistent patterns with TSS loads.
- Extends the effective range for turkey hunting, reducing the risk of wounding birds.
- Easy tool-less installation and removal, making choke changes quick and convenient.
- Durable construction with a black finish that resists rust and corrosion.
- Significantly improves pattern density and consistency compared to standard chokes.
Cons
- The extremely tight pattern may not be ideal for very close-range shots (under 20 yards).
- It is designed specifically for TSS loads. Performance with lead or other non-TSS ammunition may not be optimal.
Who Should Buy Primos TSS Jelly Head Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Steel Black?
The Primos TSS Jelly Head is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand the best possible performance from their shotgun. It’s ideal for hunters who primarily use TSS ammunition. They want to maximize their effective range and ensure clean, ethical harvests.
Hunters who primarily use lead ammunition or hunt turkeys at very close ranges (under 20 yards) may want to consider other choke options. A must-have accessory would be a selection of different TSS loads in various shot sizes (e.g., #7, #9) to fine-tune the pattern and performance to specific hunting conditions.
Conclusion on Primos TSS Jelly Head Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Steel Black is a game-changer for turkey hunters who demand the ultimate in pattern density and extended range. It delivers on its promise of super-tight, evenly spread patterns with TSS loads. This allows for ethical and efficient harvests at distances that would be questionable with standard choke tubes.
At $52.49, the price is justified by the significant improvement in performance and the increased confidence it provides in the field. The Primos TSS Jelly Head is a worthwhile investment for any serious turkey hunter looking to maximize their success. If you’re ready to take your turkey hunting to the next level, I highly recommend giving the Primos TSS Jelly Head a try. You won’t be disappointed.