The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA Made a Bold First Impression
After a decade of tinkering with shotguns and chasing elusive longbeards across state lines, I’ve learned that the right choke tube can make or break a turkey hunt. That’s why I was immediately intrigued by the TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA, promising tighter patterns and extended range for my Benelli. The TRUGLO HEADBANGER boasts multi-phase groove technology designed to wrangle wadding and guide pellets into dense, consistent patterns – a claim I was eager to verify.
My quest for the TRUGLO HEADBANGER began with persistent issues with my factory choke, specifically inconsistent patterns with high-performance turkey loads. I was experiencing frustrating flyers and lacked confidence in extending my effective range, resulting in passed opportunities. A reliable, tight-patterning choke tube was the solution I desperately needed.
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE arrived in simple, functional packaging. Pulling it out, the immediate impression was one of solid construction; the heat-treated steel felt robust and ready to withstand the rigors of magnum turkey loads. It has a polished end face for what TRUGLO claims will ensure better seating and sealing.
Before settling on the TRUGLO HEADBANGER, I considered the Carlson’s Long Beard XR choke and the Patternmaster Code Black Turkey. The Carlson’s is a well-regarded option, but I was curious about TRUGLO’s multi-phase groove technology. The Patternmaster, while known for tight patterns, carries a higher price tag, prompting me to try the more budget-friendly HEADBANGER first.
My initial excitement was tempered with cautious optimism. I’ve seen plenty of “miracle” chokes come and go. But the robust build quality and the promise of compatibility with my favorite turkey loads definitely piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my local shooting range, a familiar setting where I could control variables and focus on pattern density. I tested the TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE with Winchester Long Beard XR, Hevi-Shot Magnum Blend, and Federal Premium 3rd Degree – the exact loads TRUGLO claims it’s optimized for. The range was dry and moderately warm, providing ideal conditions for evaluating performance.
The choke tube screwed in smoothly and seated perfectly against the barrel shoulder of my Benelli Montefeltro. Shooting at 40 yards, the patterns were noticeably tighter than with my factory modified choke. The Winchester Long Beard XR produced the most impressive result, with a dense core and minimal flyers.
The ease of installation was a welcome surprise; some aftermarket chokes can be finicky. While I initially anticipated a break-in period, the TRUGLO HEADBANGER performed admirably right out of the box, delivering consistent patterns from the start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continued use and fine-tuning my preferred load, the TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE has proven itself a reliable performer. I’ve taken it out on three separate turkey hunts, subjecting it to various environmental conditions. The choke has been exposed to early morning dew, light rain, and dusty terrain.
Despite the varying conditions, the choke tube consistently maintained tight, even patterns. After approximately 50 rounds, I observed no noticeable wear or degradation in performance. The heat-treated steel shows no signs of rust or corrosion.
Cleaning the TRUGLO HEADBANGER is straightforward. A quick scrub with a shotgun bore brush and solvent removes any residue. Comparing it to my previous experiences with other chokes, the HEADBANGER has certainly met, and in some ways, exceeded my expectations, particularly in pattern consistency with Winchester Long Beard XR.
Breaking Down the Features of TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA
Specifications
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA is specifically designed for Benelli and Beretta shotguns that utilize the Mobilchoke system. It’s constructed from heat-treated steel, promising enhanced durability, even with the use of potent turkey loads. It’s a 12-gauge choke tube, optimized for high-performance turkey loads.
This choke tube is specifically designed for 12GA shotguns and Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke systems. The CNC-machined construction ensures optimum precision and consistent performance. The multi-phase groove technology is intended to engage the wadding and guide pellets into a tighter, consistent pattern.
These specifications matter because turkey hunting demands precision and reliability. The Mobilchoke compatibility ensures a secure fit in my Benelli. The heat-treated steel is critical for withstanding the stress of magnum turkey loads. Finally, the multi-phase groove technology is central to achieving the tight patterns necessary for ethical, long-range shots.
Performance & Functionality
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA excels at its primary function: delivering tight, consistent patterns with high-performance turkey loads. The consistent patterns inspire confidence in the field. With the right load, it’s capable of ethically extending your effective range.
While the TRUGLO HEADBANGER performs admirably with Winchester Long Beard XR, it didn’t produce quite as tight of patterns with Federal Premium 3rd Degree in my testing. This could be due to individual shotgun preferences, but it highlights the importance of patterning different loads. It undoubtedly exceeds expectations with Winchester Long Beard XR ammunition.
Design & Ergonomics
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER features a straightforward, functional design. The heat-treated steel gives the choke a robust, durable feel. It has a polished end face that ensures proper seating in the shotgun barrel.
Installing the TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE is exceptionally easy and requires no special tools beyond a standard choke tube wrench. There is no complex learning curve. The choke tube is designed for easy installation.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from heat-treated steel, the TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE is designed to withstand considerable use and abuse. With proper care, it should last for many seasons of hard hunting. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are recommended.
The choke tube is easy to clean. Standard bore solvent and a nylon brush is all that is needed. The TRUGLO HEADBANGER appears easy to maintain and repair, however, should it suffer damage, replacement is likely more cost-effective than repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA does not come with any additional accessories. Its function is singular: to tighten shotgun patterns for turkey hunting. There aren’t any specific customization options for the choke tube itself.
However, its compatibility with the Benelli/Beretta Mobilchoke system means it can be used with a wide variety of shotguns chambered in 12 gauge. While the HEADBANGER itself is not customizable, its performance can be fine-tuned by experimenting with different turkey loads from various manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA
Pros
- Significantly tighter patterns compared to factory chokes, especially with Winchester Long Beard XR.
- Heat-treated steel construction ensures durability, even with heavy turkey loads.
- Compatible with a wide range of Benelli and Beretta shotguns utilizing the Mobilchoke system.
- Easy installation and removal using a standard choke tube wrench.
- Affordable price point compared to other premium turkey chokes.
Cons
- Pattern performance can vary significantly depending on the specific turkey load used.
- No included choke wrench.
Who Should Buy TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA?
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA is perfect for turkey hunters seeking to improve their shotgun’s pattern density and extend their effective range without breaking the bank. This choke is especially well-suited to hunters who use Benelli or Beretta shotguns with the Mobilchoke system, and who primarily use Winchester Long Beard XR ammunition. It’s also a solid choice for individuals who value durability and ease of use in their hunting gear.
Hunters who demand absolute pinpoint accuracy with every type of load, or who prefer specialized, hand-tuned chokes, might want to consider a more expensive, custom-fitted option. Those who do not own a Benelli or Beretta shotgun with a Mobilchoke system should obviously skip this product.
A must-have accessory for the TRUGLO HEADBANGER is a high-quality choke tube wrench (if you don’t already own one), and a selection of various turkey loads to test for optimal pattern density in your specific shotgun.
Conclusion on TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA
The TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA is a worthwhile investment for turkey hunters seeking to improve their shotgun’s performance. Its heat-treated steel construction promises durability. It delivered noticeably tighter patterns in my Benelli.
At a price of $38.49, the TRUGLO HEADBANGER offers excellent value. It’s a noticeable step up from factory chokes without the premium price tag of some high-end options. I would definitely recommend the TRUGLO HEADBANGER CHOKE TUBE BER BEN MOBIL 12GA to any turkey hunter looking for an affordable, reliable way to tighten their patterns and ethically extend their effective range.
Don’t let another turkey season pass you by with mediocre patterns! Get the TRUGLO HEADBANGER, find the load your shotgun loves, and prepare to fill your tag with confidence!