First Thoughts on the Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black promises to be a game-changer for turkey hunters, specifically those transitioning to or already using the potent TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) loads. Primos claims this choke delivers super-tight, evenly spread patterns, offering the accuracy needed to bag even the wariest gobblers. My interest in this choke stemmed from a frustrating spring season last year. I missed a longbeard at what should have been an easy 35-yard shot, and the lingering thought was that my pattern was too spread out for the distance.
Upon unboxing the Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black, I immediately noticed its solid, no-nonsense build. The black finish is clean and appears durable, and the tool-free installation is a welcome feature. It feels like a quality piece of equipment, substantial without being overly heavy. Comparing it to my existing full choke, a Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke, the Primos appears to have a slightly more aggressive constriction based on visual inspection. I’ve also used a TruLock choke in the past, finding it reliable but lacking the specialized design for TSS that the Primos offers.
My first impression is optimistic. This choke seems purpose-built and well-made. I’m eager to see if it lives up to the hype of delivering tighter, more consistent patterns with TSS loads, ultimately increasing my effective range and confidence in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black at my local shooting range, using a Remington 870 20-gauge shotgun and a variety of TSS loads from different manufacturers. The weather was clear and mild, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze. Installation was effortless, simply screwing the choke in by hand until snug. I started patterning at 20 yards to get a baseline, then moved back to 30, 40, and 50 yards.
The pattern density at 40 yards with Federal TSS was impressive. It was significantly tighter than what I was used to seeing with lead loads and my previous choke. There were no noticeable gaps or inconsistencies in the spread. I did experience slightly more recoil with the TSS loads compared to lead, but that’s to be expected due to the higher pellet count and denser material.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use during the turkey season and multiple range sessions, the Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black has proven its reliability. The black finish shows no signs of wear despite being exposed to rain, mud, and the occasional accidental bump. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a gun cleaning solvent and a bore brush keeps it in excellent condition. I did find that applying a thin layer of choke tube grease helps prevent it from seizing.
Compared to my experiences with other chokes, the Primos stands out due to its consistently tight patterns with TSS. My previous choke, while decent with lead, didn’t produce nearly the same pellet density at longer ranges. The Primos instills confidence, knowing that I have a choke specifically designed to maximize the potential of TSS loads.
Breaking Down the Features of Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
Specifications
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black is designed for 20-gauge shotguns with Remington (Rem) choke threads. It’s specifically designed as a Turkey choke, meaning it offers a very tight constriction. The choke is finished in black and designed for tool-free installation. It is explicitly marketed for use with TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) loads, a denser-than-lead shot that delivers higher pellet counts and longer effective ranges. These specifications are crucial because they dictate compatibility and intended use.
The 20-gauge compatibility limits it to users of that specific shotgun bore. The Rem Choke designation means it will only fit shotguns with Remington-style choke threading. The “Turkey” choke size tells you it will create a very tight pattern at longer ranges, which is what turkey hunters need. The TSS designation means it’s been designed to withstand the extra pressures and tighter patterns associated with Tungsten shot.
Performance & Functionality
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black performs exceptionally well in delivering tight, consistent patterns with TSS loads. Accuracy is significantly improved compared to using standard full chokes with TSS. At 40 yards, I consistently achieved patterns with 90%+ of pellets inside a 10-inch circle, which is ideal for turkey hunting.
The only minor drawback is that the extremely tight pattern can make it less forgiving at close ranges (inside 20 yards). A head-on shot at that distance could result in a missed kill due to an overly concentrated pattern. However, this is a trade-off for the extended range capabilities. It definitely exceeds my expectations, providing the confidence I need for longer shots.
Design & Ergonomics
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black has a simple, functional design. The black finish is understated and durable. The tool-free installation is a significant advantage, making it easy to swap chokes in the field without needing a wrench.
The weight is negligible, adding virtually nothing to the overall weight of the shotgun. There’s no learning curve involved; it’s a straightforward screw-in choke with no complex adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black is built to last. The steel construction is robust, and the black finish provides good corrosion resistance. Regular cleaning and light lubrication will ensure its longevity. It appears easy to maintain and should withstand years of use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black doesn’t come with any accessories directly, as it is a standalone choke tube. However, it’s compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Remington chokes, although one isn’t needed for installation. While not a customization option in the traditional sense, different TSS loads can be experimented with to find the optimal pattern for your specific shotgun and hunting conditions.
Pros and Cons of Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
Pros
- Significantly tighter patterns with TSS loads compared to standard chokes. This is the key benefit, extending effective range and improving accuracy.
- Tool-free installation. Makes swapping chokes in the field quick and easy.
- Durable construction and finish. Built to withstand harsh hunting conditions.
- Easy to clean and maintain. Simple design ensures longevity.
- Specifically designed for TSS, maximizing its potential. Ensures optimal performance with these specialized loads.
Cons
- Extremely tight patterns may be less forgiving at very close ranges (under 20 yards). Requires careful aiming at close distances.
- Only compatible with 20-gauge Remington choke thread shotguns. Limits its use to specific firearm models.
Who Should Buy Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black?
Perfect for: Turkey hunters using 20-gauge shotguns with Remington choke threads who want to maximize the performance of TSS loads for longer-range shots. This choke is a great option for hunters looking to upgrade their shotgun and improve their chances of success.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who primarily use lead loads or those who hunt turkeys at very close ranges (under 20 yards). Those with shotguns that don’t have Remington choke threads should also avoid this product.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality set of TSS turkey loads is essential to get the most out of this choke. A red dot sight or scope can also enhance accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
Conclusion on Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black
The Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black is a specialized tool that delivers exceptional performance when paired with TSS loads. It provides significantly tighter and more consistent patterns than standard chokes, extending effective range and increasing confidence in the field.
The price of $57.49 is justified considering the performance improvement and durable construction. This choke is a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters looking to take full advantage of the capabilities of TSS ammunition.
I would highly recommend the Primos TSS Jelly Head Rem Choke 20 Gauge Turkey Steel Black to any 20-gauge Remington choke thread shotgun owner who’s serious about turkey hunting with TSS. Upgrade your setup and put more gobblers on the ground this season!