Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Improved Cylinder Review

Everything You Need to Know About the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder

Shotgun chokes are, in my opinion, one of the most overlooked aspects of shotgun shooting. Many shooters assume the factory choke is “good enough,” or that any aftermarket choke will magically transform their patterns. After years of chasing upland birds across diverse terrain and using shotguns in tactical scenarios, I’ve learned that the right choke makes a HUGE difference in performance. This review focuses on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder, a choke designed to enhance the versatility of Huglu 20-gauge shotguns.

I sought this choke tube to fine-tune my Huglu 20ga for close-range work. The factory chokes that came with my shotgun offered a little too much constriction for fast-moving targets in dense cover. I was aiming to widen my pattern slightly, giving me a greater margin for error without sacrificing pattern density at closer ranges.

Upon unboxing, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder struck me as robust and well-machined. Its stainless-steel finish gave it a clean, professional look, and its flush design promised to maintain the shotgun’s original aesthetics. The weight felt right, neither too light nor too heavy, suggesting a quality piece of hardware.

I considered chokes from Briley and Trulock, both reputable manufacturers. Ultimately, I chose Carlson’s Choke Tubes due to their competitive pricing and positive reputation for quality and consistency. I also appreciated that they’re made in the USA.

My first impression was positive. I was excited to get it to the range and see if it improved my hit percentage on those pesky flushing quail!

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder at my local sporting clays range. It was a sunny, slightly breezy day, ideal for evaluating shotgun patterns. I shot at various distances, focusing on targets that simulated close-range upland bird hunting scenarios – crossing shots, springing teal, and rabbits.

The choke performed admirably in these conditions. The improved cylinder constriction provided a noticeable widening of the shot pattern at 20-25 yards, exactly what I was hoping for. This resulted in more consistent breaks on targets that previously would have been a clean miss.

The choke installed easily with the included wrench and required no special tools. There were no hiccups during the initial use. The pattern appeared even and consistent.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use across multiple hunting seasons and range sessions, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder has proven to be a reliable addition to my shotgun. I’ve used it in wet conditions, hunting ducks in flooded timber, and in dry, dusty upland fields. It has performed flawlessly in all environments.

There are no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor discoloration from powder residue. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent keeps it in optimal condition. The choke threads remain smooth and easy to install and remove.

Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder offers a significant improvement in pattern consistency at close to medium ranges. It has noticeably increased my confidence when shooting at close-flushing birds. This makes it a worthwhile upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder is specifically designed for Huglu 20-gauge shotguns using the Huglu choke system. It’s constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, ensuring strength and resistance to corrosion. The choke has a diameter of 0.615 inches, providing an improved cylinder constriction.

This choke is a flush-mounted design, meaning it sits flush with the end of the shotgun barrel. This maintains the shotgun’s original balance and aesthetics. The choke is non-ported, which helps reduce muzzle jump.

The 17-4 stainless steel construction means the choke is resistant to rust and corrosion. This is important, as choke tubes are exposed to moisture and harsh cleaning solvents. The Improved Cylinder constriction is ideal for close to medium-range shooting, providing a wider pattern than modified or full chokes.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder excels at producing consistent and effective patterns at close to medium ranges. It significantly improved my hit ratio on fast-moving targets within 30 yards. This makes it perfect for upland bird hunting, skeet shooting, and close-quarters tactical applications.

The choke’s strength is its ability to deliver a more forgiving pattern at closer ranges. This gives shooters a greater margin for error without overly compromising pattern density. Its weakness could be in longer-range shooting situations where tighter patterns are needed. I found this choke to meet all expectations and prove exceptionally useful.

Design & Ergonomics

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder features a simple and functional design. The stainless steel construction gives it a premium feel, and the flush-mounted design maintains the shotgun’s sleek appearance. It weighs very little.

The choke is exceptionally user-friendly. It installs and removes easily with the included wrench, and there’s no learning curve involved. Even a novice shotgunner can easily install and use this choke tube.

Durability & Maintenance

Constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder is built to last. After months of regular use in diverse environments, it shows no signs of structural weakness or corrosion. I expect it to provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the choke is simple. Cleaning involves removing powder residue and lubricating the threads with gun oil. With minimal care, this choke will remain in excellent condition for years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder comes with a choke tube wrench for easy installation and removal. There are no specific customization options for the choke itself, as it’s designed to provide a specific constriction. However, it’s compatible with any Huglu 20ga shotgun that accepts the Huglu choke system.

The choke can be used in conjunction with various shotgun accessories such as shell carriers, slings, and recoil pads. It’s a versatile component that can enhance the performance of any compatible Huglu shotgun.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder?

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder is perfect for upland bird hunters seeking to improve their hit ratio on close-flushing birds. It’s also well-suited for skeet shooters and those using their Huglu 20ga for home defense or tactical applications in close quarters. This makes it great for anyone looking to enhance the versatility of their Huglu 20-gauge shotgun.

Those who primarily shoot at long ranges should skip this product. They would benefit more from a modified or full choke that provides tighter patterns at longer distances.

A must-have accessory is a good quality choke tube case to protect it when it is not installed in the shotgun. Regular cleaning supplies are also recommended to maintain optimal performance.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder

In summary, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder is a high-quality, durable, and effective choke tube that enhances the versatility of Huglu 20-gauge shotguns. Its improved cylinder constriction provides a wider, more forgiving pattern at close to medium ranges. This makes it ideal for upland bird hunting, skeet shooting, and close-quarters tactical applications.

The price of $39.99 is justified, given the choke’s quality construction, reliable performance, and noticeable improvement in hit ratio. I highly recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Huglu 20ga Flush Improved Cylinder to any Huglu 20ga owner seeking to optimize their shotgun’s performance.

Upgrade your Huglu today and experience the difference a quality choke can make!