First Impressions of Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube
The Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube enters a crowded market, promising enhanced performance for dove hunters using Retay shotguns. Trulock is a respected name in choke tubes, so my expectations were high for this specific offering. I was particularly interested in seeing how this choke tube would improve my pattern density at typical dove hunting distances, as I’ve struggled in the past with consistently clean kills.
My go-to shotgun for dove season is a Retay Masai Mara, so finding accessories specifically designed for it is always a win. I’ve used universal choke tubes before, but the promise of a Trulock-engineered tube tailored for my specific shotgun and intended use was enticing. After all, a good choke can make or break a hunt.
Unboxing the Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube, I immediately noticed the solid feel and clean black finish. The steel construction inspires confidence, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of multiple seasons. It felt heavier than some of the cheaper, mass-produced tubes I’ve handled.
I considered other aftermarket choke tubes, including some from Carlson’s and Briley. Ultimately, I chose the Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube because of Trulock’s reputation for precision and the promise of optimal performance with my Retay shotgun. The price point, at $43.99, seemed reasonable for a specialized choke tube designed for a specific purpose.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The quality seems evident, but the real test would be in the field, seeing how it impacts my shot patterns and ultimately, my success dove hunting. I was excited to see if the Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube could live up to the Trulock name and improve my dove hunting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube came during the opening weekend of dove season on a friend’s farm in central Texas. Conditions were typical for early September: hot, humid, and dusty. I spent the afternoon positioned near a watering hole, a known hotspot for doves.
Installation was a breeze, simply screwing the Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube into my Retay Masai Mara’s barrel by hand. I started with standard 12-gauge dove loads (1 1/8 oz of #8 shot) and immediately noticed a difference in my shot patterns on some cardboard targets I set up. The patterns were noticeably tighter and more consistent than with the factory-installed improved cylinder choke I typically use.
The tighter pattern translated to more confident shots. I had a much higher percentage of clean kills. I also noticed the wad smoke from my shots were less erratic. There were no malfunctions or issues during the entire afternoon, even with the dust and heat.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the dove season, the Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, despite regular use and cleaning. The steel construction has held up perfectly.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent after each hunt is all it takes to keep it in top condition. The tube has remained easy to install and remove, even after repeated use.
Compared to previous seasons using factory chokes or universal aftermarket tubes, the Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube has significantly improved my success rate. The consistent patterns and clean kills have made dove hunting more enjoyable and less wasteful. It definitely outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube
Specifications
The Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube is specifically designed for Retay shotguns chambered in 12 gauge. Its defining features are its steel construction, black finish, and optimized constriction for dove hunting. It utilizes the Retay Choke tube system.
The steel construction ensures durability and longevity, allowing the choke tube to withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements. The optimized constriction is the key to achieving consistent, dense patterns at typical dove hunting distances, maximizing the chances of clean kills. The Retay Choke tube system ensures a perfect fit and reliable performance in Retay shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube excels at producing dense, consistent patterns at distances of 20-40 yards, which are typical for dove hunting. This improved pattern density results in a higher percentage of pellets striking the target, leading to cleaner, more ethical kills. It does its job exceptionally well.
The primary strength is its ability to consistently deliver excellent patterns with a variety of dove loads. The only potential weakness might be that it’s specifically designed for dove hunting. So it might not be ideal for other game or shooting disciplines that require different choke constrictions. It definitely meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube features a simple, functional design. The steel construction feels robust and well-made. It is surprisingly lightweight, adding no noticeable weight to the shotgun.
The tube is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools for installation or removal. It’s a straightforward screw-in design that anyone can use with ease. There is practically no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The all-steel construction suggests that the Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube will last for many years with proper care. So far, after a full season of use, it shows no signs of wear or corrosion. It appears to be extremely durable.
Maintenance is simple and requires only basic cleaning tools and solvents. Regular cleaning after each use will ensure optimal performance and prevent the build-up of residue. It is very easy to maintain and repair is unlikely to be needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available for the choke tube itself, as it is designed with a specific constriction for dove hunting.
However, the Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube is compatible with any Retay shotgun designed to accept Retay Choke tubes. It can also be used in conjunction with other aftermarket accessories, such as recoil pads, slings, and optics, to enhance the overall shooting experience. Consider purchasing a choke tube wrench for easier installation/removal, although hand-tightening is usually sufficient.
Pros and Cons of Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube
Pros
- Consistently produces dense, even patterns at dove hunting distances.
- Noticeably improves hit percentages and clean kills.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Specifically designed for Retay shotguns, guaranteeing a perfect fit.
Cons
- Limited to 12-gauge Retay shotguns only.
- Optimized for dove hunting. Not versatile for other shooting disciplines.
Who Should Buy Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube?
The Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube is perfect for dove hunters who own a 12-gauge Retay shotgun and are looking to improve their pattern density and overall hunting success. It’s an excellent upgrade for hunters who are tired of inconsistent patterns and missed shots. Novice and experienced hunters alike will benefit from this choke tube.
Hunters who primarily pursue other game birds or participate in clay shooting competitions might want to consider more versatile choke tube options with adjustable constrictions. Individuals who do not own a Retay shotgun should obviously avoid this product. A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easier installation and removal, especially after repeated use.
Conclusion on Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube
The Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube is a well-made, purpose-built accessory that delivers on its promise of improved dove hunting performance. The price of $43.99 is absolutely justified by the noticeable increase in pattern density and the resulting increase in clean kills. It’s a small investment that yields significant results in the field.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Trulock Retay Trulock Dove 12 Ga Choke Tube to any dove hunter who owns a compatible Retay shotgun. If you’re serious about improving your dove hunting success, this choke tube is a game-changer. Upgrade your Retay shotgun today and experience the Trulock difference!