Let’s Dive into TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC
The TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC promises to elevate your turkey hunting game. It’s a combo package boasting an extended choke tube and a complimentary sight, tailored specifically for Mossberg 20-gauge shotguns. This immediately caught my eye as someone who values both precision and versatility in the field.
I’ve been chasing gobblers for over a decade, and the constant struggle for a tighter, more consistent pattern at extended ranges pushed me to explore different choke options. I was tired of seeing birds just outside my effective range, and I needed a solution that would increase my confidence.
My initial impression upon unboxing the TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC was positive. The choke tube felt solid and well-machined, and the included sight, while basic, seemed like a potentially useful addition.
I considered other choke tubes from Carlson’s and Primos, but the TruGlo combo’s promise of both pattern improvement and a sighting aid at a reasonable price swayed my decision. I was excited to get this setup on my Mossberg 500 and see if it lived up to the hype, hoping for tighter patterns and increased effective range.
Real-World Testing: Putting TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC at my local shooting range, using turkey target patterns at 30 and 40 yards. The weather was clear and sunny, providing ideal conditions for sighting and pattern analysis. The choke tube was easy to install, screwing in smoothly without any need for excessive force.
The improvement in pattern density compared to the factory choke was immediately noticeable. At 30 yards, the pattern was significantly tighter, with a denser concentration of pellets in the kill zone. However, at 40 yards, while still an improvement, the pattern started to spread slightly more than I hoped.
The included sight required some adjustment, but once dialed in, it allowed for more precise aiming, particularly in low-light conditions. After the initial use, I noticed that the choke tube exterior showed minor powder residue, which was expected, but cleaned off easily.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season with the TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC, it has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. The choke tube has held up well to repeated use, showing no signs of wear or damage. Cleaning the choke tube after each hunt is a breeze, requiring just a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent.
Compared to my previous experiences with other choke tubes, the TruGlo offers a noticeable advantage in pattern density and range. The included sight is a welcome addition, improving my confidence in making ethical shots, especially during those crucial early morning hunts.
Breaking Down the Features of TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC
Specifications
- The TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC is designed for 20-gauge Mossberg shotguns. This ensures a proper fit and optimal performance.
- It features an Xtreme Steel Turkey Choke Tube, built for use with both lead and steel shot. This versatility is crucial for hunters who may be restricted to non-toxic shot in certain areas.
- The combo includes a free fiber-optic sight for enhanced aiming. This adds value and improves accuracy, especially in low-light hunting situations.
- The choke tube has a natural finish. This provides a low-profile look that won’t spook wary turkeys.
- It is developed in accordance with the National Wild Turkey Federation. This endorsement assures quality and effectiveness in turkey hunting applications.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the performance and reliability of the choke tube. The choke tube is designed for tight patterns at extended ranges, while the fiber-optic sight improves visibility and accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC excels at tightening shot patterns, extending the effective range of a 20-gauge shotgun for turkey hunting. Accuracy is noticeably improved, especially when using the included fiber-optic sight, which allows for more precise aiming. The choke tube functions reliably, consistently producing tight patterns with various turkey loads I tested.
The main strength is the choke tube’s ability to deliver dense patterns at 30-40 yards. One weakness I’ve observed is that at distances beyond 40 yards, the pattern begins to open up, reducing its effectiveness.
Overall, the TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC meets and somewhat exceeds my expectations for an aftermarket choke tube. It provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density and accuracy compared to the factory choke that came with my shotgun.
Design & Ergonomics
The TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC is made from high-quality steel, ensuring durability and longevity. It has a solid, well-built feel, and the natural finish provides a sleek, non-reflective appearance.
The choke tube is easy to install and remove, requiring no special tools. The fiber-optic sight is also simple to attach and adjust, with a user-friendly design.
Durability & Maintenance
The TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC is built to last, capable of withstanding the rigors of turkey hunting season after season. The steel construction resists corrosion and wear, ensuring reliable performance over time.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving simply cleaning the choke tube after each use to remove powder residue and prevent buildup. Regular cleaning helps maintain the choke tube’s optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC comes with a fiber-optic sight as an included accessory. While there aren’t many customization options directly related to the choke tube itself, the included sight can be further adjusted for windage and elevation.
The choke tube is compatible with most standard 20-gauge turkey loads from various manufacturers. The sight itself is a universal type and could be replaced with other aftermarket sights if desired.
Pros and Cons of TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC
Pros
- Significantly tighter shot patterns at 30-40 yards, extending effective range.
- Included fiber-optic sight enhances aiming in low-light conditions.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring no special tools.
- Developed in accordance with NWTF standards, guaranteeing quality.
Cons
- Pattern density decreases significantly beyond 40 yards.
- The included fiber-optic sight, while useful, may not be the highest quality.
Who Should Buy TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC?
The TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC is perfect for turkey hunters who want to improve the performance of their Mossberg 20-gauge shotgun. It’s also suitable for hunters who appreciate having a fiber-optic sight for enhanced aiming in low-light conditions.
This product might not be ideal for hunters who primarily hunt turkeys at very close ranges (inside 20 yards) or those who prefer open choke configurations. If you need extreme long-range capabilities beyond 40 yards, you might want to explore other options. A quality choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal would be a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC
The TruGlo TGI Gobble-Stopper Xtreme Choke Tube Combo Mossberg 20 Gauge TG178XC is a solid investment for turkey hunters seeking to enhance their shotgun’s performance. At $49.99, the price is certainly justified, considering the improved pattern density and the added benefit of the included sight.
I would personally recommend this choke tube to anyone looking for an affordable and effective upgrade for their Mossberg 20-gauge. It is a worthwhile addition to your hunting gear that could very well make the difference between bagging a gobbler and going home empty-handed. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to tighten your patterns and improve your accuracy this season!