What Makes Rob Roberts Gun Works 200302 TSS Raptor Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless Stand Out?
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200302 TSS Raptor Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless choke tube promises optimized performance with tungsten shot. Rob Roberts Gun Works has built this choke tube with advanced technology, using high-quality 17-4 PH stainless steel, aiming to enhance the patterns and downrange energy of your 20-gauge shotgun.
My journey to this choke began with a frustrating string of missed turkey. I knew my 20-gauge was capable, but my patterns were inconsistent, leading to clean misses at ethical ranges, and I needed a solution to tighten those patterns, especially when using the increasingly popular Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) loads. The promise of the TSS Raptor specifically designed for these loads drew me in.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the heft and finish. The 17-4 PH stainless steel construction felt robust and well-machined, radiating quality compared to some of the cheaper, mass-produced choke tubes I’ve used in the past. It felt like a serious piece of equipment built to withstand the rigors of hardcore hunting.
Compared to my factory choke tubes and a couple of extended ported chokes from other manufacturers, the Rob Roberts offering looked and felt different. The others felt almost flimsy in comparison. While those served well enough with lead shot, they seemed ill-equipped to handle the density and potential of TSS.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. I was eager to see if the TSS Raptor could live up to the hype and transform my 20-gauge into a turkey-slaying machine, but also aware that no choke tube is a magic bullet – proper gun fit and shooting technique are still paramount.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rob Roberts Gun Works 200302 TSS Raptor Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local shooting range, patterning the TSS Raptor with several different TSS loads. The weather was clear and cool, providing ideal conditions to evaluate its performance at 40 yards.
The difference was immediately noticeable. My previous patterns with similar TSS loads were spotty, with significant gaps. The TSS Raptor tightened those patterns considerably, creating a dense and even spread within a 10-inch circle at 40 yards. There was little to no need to compensate for holes in the pattern, which boosted my confidence.
The choke screwed in easily and tightened securely with no issues, a testament to the quality machining. After the first few shots, I noticed a little bit of residue but nothing more than expected, and nothing that suggested poor performance or incompatibility.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season and several rounds of sporting clays, the TSS Raptor has proven to be incredibly durable. It has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or corrosion despite exposure to mud, rain, and frequent cleaning.
Cleaning is straightforward. A quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in top condition. I also apply a light coat of gun oil to prevent rust.
Compared to my previous experiences, the Rob Roberts choke outperforms anything I’ve used with TSS. The consistency and density of the patterns are significantly better. This translates to increased confidence in the field and more ethical, clean kills.
Breaking Down the Features of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200302 TSS Raptor Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless
Specifications
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200302 TSS Raptor Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless features a 20-gauge bore diameter optimized for TSS shot. It’s constructed from 17-4 PH Stainless Steel, known for its strength and corrosion resistance. The choke is designed for shotguns with the Browning Invector Plus (+) choke tube system.
These specifications matter because they directly impact performance and durability. The optimized bore diameter ensures tight, consistent patterns with TSS shot. The high-quality stainless steel ensures the choke can withstand the punishing forces of repeated shots and harsh weather conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The TSS Raptor excels at its primary task: delivering tight, consistent patterns with TSS shot. Its accuracy and reliability are top-notch. It significantly improves the effective range and lethality of a 20-gauge shotgun when using TSS loads.
The main strength is its ability to transform a standard 20-gauge into a specialized turkey gun capable of taking birds at extended ranges. I haven’t identified any significant weaknesses.
It far exceeded my expectations. I went from questioning my 20-gauge’s effectiveness to being completely confident in its ability to cleanly harvest turkeys out to 50 yards.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rob Roberts Gun Works choke has a clean, functional design. The stainless steel construction feels solid and durable. The extended design makes it easy to install and remove.
It is user-friendly. Installation is as simple as screwing it in and tightening it with a choke tube wrench. There is no real learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 PH Stainless Steel construction suggests excellent long-term durability. Given my experience thus far, I expect it to last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200302 TSS Raptor Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless does not come with any additional accessories. The primary customization option is selecting the appropriate choke constriction for your specific shotgun and load.
While no specific accessories are included, it is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Invector Plus chokes.
Pros and Cons of Rob Roberts Gun Works 200302 TSS Raptor Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless
Pros
- Exceptional patterns with TSS shot, drastically increasing effective range.
- Durable 17-4 PH Stainless Steel construction for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Significantly improves the lethality and consistency of a 20-gauge shotgun.
- Provides increased confidence in the field.
Cons
- Can only be used in one barrel of an over/under shotgun.
- Relatively expensive compared to standard choke tubes.
Who Should Buy Rob Roberts Gun Works 200302 TSS Raptor Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless?
Perfect for turkey hunters who use a 20-gauge shotgun and want to maximize the performance of TSS loads. It’s also well-suited for waterfowl hunters seeking tighter patterns with non-toxic shot.
This product might not be necessary for hunters who primarily use lead shot or those who are content with their current choke tube’s performance.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality choke tube wrench.
Conclusion on Rob Roberts Gun Works 200302 TSS Raptor Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless
The Rob Roberts Gun Works 200302 TSS Raptor Invector Plus 20 Gauge 17-4 PH Stainless is a worthwhile investment for serious turkey and waterfowl hunters. Its ability to deliver dense, consistent patterns with TSS shot is remarkable.
The price is justified by the improved performance and increased confidence it provides. The Rob Roberts Gun Works choke tube will improve your hunt.
I wholeheartedly recommend the TSS Raptor to anyone looking to get the most out of their 20-gauge and TSS ammunition. Tighten your patterns, extend your range, and put more birds on the ground.