Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 Review

Let’s Dive into Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 is a black oxide finished, extended choke tube designed for Verona SX 12-gauge shotguns. Manufactured by Trulock, a name synonymous with quality in the choke tube industry, this Skeet1 choke promises improved patterns thanks to its extended design and 17-4 stainless steel construction. This choke tube aims to offer precision hunters and recreational shooters alike an edge in their shotgun performance.

I’ve been clay shooting competitively for years and always looking for that extra edge in pattern consistency. I was experiencing inconsistent breaks at my local sporting clays course and needed a choke that would provide a more reliable spread at shorter distances. The promise of better patterns from an extended choke, coupled with Trulock‘s reputation, immediately caught my attention.

Upon unboxing the Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the 17-4 stainless steel. The black oxide finish gives it a sleek, professional look, and the knurled end provides a secure grip for easy installation and removal. It felt noticeably more robust than some of the cheaper, flush-mounted chokes I’ve used in the past.

I was initially considering a Carlson’s Cremator or a Briley Spectrum choke, but ultimately chose the Trulock due to its specific Skeet1 constriction and the consistently positive reviews surrounding Trulock‘s pattern performance. Plus, the price point was reasonable considering the materials and construction. I hoped this would be the choke that finally gave me the consistent, reliable shot patterns I was after.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 felt like a quality piece of equipment. I was eager to get it to the range and see if its performance matched its appearance.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 at my local shooting range, specifically on a sporting clays course designed for close-range shots. The weather was slightly overcast with a light breeze, typical conditions for shooting in my area. I used a variety of target loads, ranging from 7/8 oz to 1 1/8 oz, all in #8 shot.

The Trulock performed admirably, consistently breaking clays at the distances it was designed for. I immediately noticed a more uniform and dense pattern compared to my factory choke. There were no noticeable gaps or inconsistencies in the shot, resulting in cleaner, more confident breaks.

The choke installed easily and remained secure throughout the session, and I noticed no issues with cleaning after the day was through. My initial worries about the extended design interfering with my swing proved unfounded; it felt natural and balanced in my Verona SX 12 gauge.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and hundreds of rounds fired, the Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 has consistently delivered excellent performance. The black oxide finish has shown no signs of wear, and the choke itself remains easy to clean. I have observed no issues with pattern degradation over time.

The choke has proven to be incredibly durable. It has held up through multiple shooting sessions, a few accidental bumps, and even a cleaning solvent spill without any signs of damage. The Trulock outperformed my expectations, especially considering the price.

Maintaining the Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a bore brush and some choke tube lubricant after each use is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper chokes that often required more aggressive cleaning, the Trulock‘s ease of maintenance is a welcome change.

Breaking Down the Features of Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718

Specifications

• The Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 is specifically designed for 12-gauge Verona SX shotguns. This ensures a perfect fit and optimal thread engagement.
• The choke features a Skeet1 constriction. It provides an improved pattern density at close to medium ranges, typically around 20-30 yards.
• It is constructed from high-strength 17-4 stainless steel. This material offers exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring a long lifespan.
• The black oxide finish provides an extra layer of protection against rust and wear. It also reduces glare, which can be beneficial in bright shooting conditions.
• The extended, knurled design allows for easy hand installation and removal without tools. The extension also contributes to improved pattern performance by providing a longer transition for the shot column.
• The choke is marked on the head with the degree of choke (Skeet1) and on the body with the bore diameter. This ensures easy identification and prevents confusion with other chokes.
• The listed range for the choke is 30 yards. This allows the user to understand the effective range of the choke.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and longevity of the choke. The 17-4 stainless steel and black oxide finish ensure durability, while the Skeet1 constriction optimizes the shot pattern for close-range shooting. The extended design and clear markings enhance usability and convenience.

Performance & Functionality

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 excels in its primary function: delivering consistent, well-distributed shot patterns at skeet distances. It effectively eliminates gaps in the pattern, leading to more broken clays and increased confidence.

The choke’s strength lies in its reliability and consistent performance. However, it is designed specifically for close-range shooting and may not be ideal for longer-range applications. It exceeds my expectations for a Skeet1 choke.

Design & Ergonomics

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 is well-designed and constructed. The 17-4 stainless steel gives it a robust feel, and the weight is balanced and doesn’t negatively impact the shotgun’s handling.

The knurled extension makes installation and removal easy, and the clear markings are a thoughtful touch. There’s no learning curve to using the choke.

Durability & Maintenance

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718, made from 17-4 stainless steel, is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning and lubrication. Its durability and ease of maintenance contribute to its overall value.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the choke tube itself. However, its compatibility with Verona SX 12-gauge shotguns means it can be used with various aftermarket choke wrenches if desired.

There are no specific customization options for this particular choke. The user may consider different choke constrictions from Trulock for different shooting applications.

Pros and Cons of Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718

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Who Should Buy Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718?

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 is perfect for skeet shooters, sporting clays enthusiasts, and upland bird hunters who frequently encounter close-range shots. It is an excellent choice for those seeking improved pattern density and reliability in their Verona SX 12-gauge shotgun.

This product might not be ideal for long-range target shooters or hunters who primarily engage targets at distances beyond 30 yards. Also, those who do not own a Verona SX 12-gauge shotgun should obviously skip this product due to compatibility issues.

A choke tube wrench and high-quality choke tube lubricant are must-have accessories to ensure proper installation, removal, and maintenance of the Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718.

Conclusion on Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 is a well-designed and constructed choke that delivers on its promise of improved pattern density at skeet distances. Its durable materials, easy installation, and consistent performance make it a worthwhile investment for any Verona SX 12-gauge shotgun owner.

The price of $53.99 is justified by the choke’s quality construction, enhanced durability, and the noticeable improvement in shot patterns. It is a reasonably priced upgrade that can significantly enhance your shooting experience.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Trulock Choke Tubes PHVSX12718 to anyone looking to improve their close-range shooting performance. If you own a Verona SX 12-gauge and want to break more clays, this choke is a must-have. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference a quality choke tube can make!