What Makes Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste Stand Out?
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste is not just another choke tube; it’s a precision-engineered tool designed for the discerning waterfowl hunter seeking extended-range performance. Crafted by Rob Roberts Gun Works from high-grade 17-4 PH stainless steel, this choke promises enhanced pattern density and durability in the harshest conditions. This choke is tailored for specific scenarios – geese and open-water ducks – a specialization that sets it apart from generic, all-purpose chokes.
For years, I’ve chased the elusive perfect pattern for long-range waterfowl hunting. The frustration of watching birds flare just outside the effective range of my shotgun led me to search for a choke that could consistently deliver tight, dense patterns at distances previously considered marginal. The RR3 Raptor, with its promise of optimal pattern density, seemed like the answer.
My first impression upon receiving the Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste was its substantial feel. The 17-4 PH stainless steel gives it a reassuring heft, suggesting quality and resilience, compared to the lighter, more generic choke tubes I’ve used in the past. The machining appeared flawless, with clean internal cuts that hint at the precise engineering within.
Compared to a standard, flush-mounted modified choke and even an extended Carlson’s Cremator, the RR3 Raptor promises tighter patterns at longer distances. I chose the RR3 Raptor because of its reputation for extending effective range and its specialized design for waterfowl. My initial excitement was tempered by the understanding that choke performance is highly load-dependent.
I was cautiously optimistic; the build quality and design details instilled confidence. The anticipation of testing its performance in the field was high. This choke exudes quality, and I hoped it would translate into performance downrange.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range, patterned against a large sheet of butcher paper at 40 and 50 yards. I wanted to establish a baseline with a variety of waterfowl loads – both steel and tungsten-based – to understand the choke’s preferences. Conditions were mild, with a slight breeze, providing a fair testing environment.
The RR3 Raptor exhibited a noticeably tighter pattern than my standard modified choke at 40 yards, with fewer flyers and a denser core. At 50 yards, the difference was even more pronounced. The pattern remained surprisingly consistent with a variety of loads, although some loads clearly performed better than others.
The choke screwed in easily, requiring no specialized tools beyond a standard choke wrench. No initial issues arose, but I did notice the importance of properly tightening the choke to ensure a consistent point of impact. The first box of shells downrange was a testament to the choke’s potential.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use throughout the waterfowl season, the Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste continues to deliver consistent results. I’ve subjected it to everything from freezing rain to muddy conditions in the flooded timber. The finish has held up remarkably well, with no signs of rust or corrosion.
Despite hundreds of rounds fired, the choke shows no signs of wear or damage. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed to remove fouling. It consistently outperforms my previous choke in terms of pattern density and effective range, especially with premium waterfowl loads.
This choke has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my waterfowl setup. It provides a measurable increase in effective range, giving me more confidence in challenging hunting scenarios. The choke has certainly exceeded my expectations and has become an integral part of my setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste
Specifications
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste is purpose-built for 12-gauge shotguns utilizing the Benelli Crio Plus choke system. It is machined from 17-4 PH U.S. Stainless Steel, chosen for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand the rigors of repeated firing. The choke is specifically designed for long-range targeting of geese and open-water ducks.
The 12-gauge designation makes it compatible with a wide range of popular shotguns used for waterfowl hunting. The Benelli Crio Plus choke tube system ensures compatibility with a specific range of shotguns known for their reliable performance. The use of 17-4 PH stainless steel provides exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion, crucial in harsh hunting environments.
The RR3 designation indicates its intended pattern constriction, optimized for long-range shots. The internal cuts are engineered to deliver optimal pattern density when paired with appropriate loads. The design specifically excludes use in over/under shotguns in both barrels due to choke design.
Performance & Functionality
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste excels at extending the effective range of a 12-gauge shotgun, consistently delivering tight, dense patterns at 40-50 yards. Its pattern density significantly improves the odds of clean kills on waterfowl at longer distances. The choke’s internal geometry is crucial in achieving these enhanced patterns.
The primary strength of this choke lies in its ability to maintain a consistent pattern, even with varying shot sizes and materials. One potential weakness is that, like any specialized choke, it may not be ideal for close-range shooting where a more open pattern is desired. This choke meets and largely exceeds expectations for long range waterfowl hunting.
The design and build quality are top-notch, with the 17-4 PH stainless steel providing exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. The choke installs easily and securely, thanks to its precise threading and snug fit within the Crio Plus system. It instills confidence.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste is constructed from a single piece of 17-4 PH stainless steel, providing exceptional strength and resistance to deformation. Its weight is substantial, conveying quality without adding excessive bulk to the shotgun. The choke extends slightly beyond the muzzle, facilitating easy installation and removal.
Its smooth exterior finish prevents snagging on vegetation, while the internal cuts are precisely machined to optimize shot patterns. The build quality is exceptional. The choke feels robust and durable in hand. The choke’s design is simple and effective.
No significant learning curve is associated with its use. Installation is straightforward, requiring only a choke wrench. The Rob Roberts Gun Works choke is designed to perform reliably out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
Machined from high-strength 17-4 PH stainless steel, the Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste is designed for a long service life. Its resistance to corrosion ensures reliable performance even in the harshest hunting environments. With proper care, it should last for many seasons.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent will remove any accumulated fouling and prevent corrosion. No specialized tools or procedures are required. This choke is designed to withstand regular use and maintain its performance over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste itself doesn’t offer customization options in the traditional sense. However, its performance can be optimized through careful selection of ammunition. Experimenting with different shot sizes, materials (steel, tungsten), and loads is crucial to finding the ideal combination for your shotgun and hunting conditions.
The choke is designed to be compatible with any shotgun that utilizes the Benelli Crio Plus choke system. No specific accessories are included with the choke, as it is a standalone performance upgrade. Load selection is paramount for this choke to achieve optimal performance.
Pros and Cons of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste
Pros
- Exceptional pattern density at extended ranges.
- Durable 17-4 PH stainless steel construction for long-lasting performance.
- Specifically designed for long-range waterfowl hunting, optimizing performance for geese and open-water ducks.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Noticeable increase in effective range, boosting confidence in challenging hunting scenarios.
Cons
- Not ideal for close-range shooting due to its tight pattern.
- Performance is highly load-dependent, requiring experimentation to find the optimal ammunition.
Who Should Buy Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste?
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who frequently encounter long-range shots, especially those targeting geese and ducks in open water. This choke is ideal for hunters seeking to maximize the effective range of their 12-gauge shotgun and improve their chances of clean kills. It is also beneficial for hunters who are willing to invest time in patterning their shotgun with various loads to achieve optimal performance.
Hunters primarily engaging in close-range shooting or those unwilling to experiment with different loads should skip this product. A standard, more open choke would be more suitable for close encounters. Must-have accessories include a choke wrench, a high-quality bore brush, and a selection of waterfowl loads for patterning.
Conclusion on Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste is a specialized choke tube that delivers on its promise of extended-range performance for waterfowl hunting. Its durable construction, optimized design, and consistent patterns make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters. The price of $145.99 is justified by the noticeable increase in effective range and improved pattern density compared to standard chokes.
I would highly recommend the Rob Roberts Gun Works 200276 RR3 Raptor Crio Plus 12 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Ste to any waterfowl hunter seeking to maximize their shotgun’s potential at longer distances. It will help put more birds on the ground. Take your waterfowl hunting to the next level: invest in the RR3 Raptor.