Carlson’s Crio Plus Choke Tube, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 Review

Here’s What I Think of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 is a specialized choke tube designed for 12-gauge shotguns with the Benelli Crio Plus choke system. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this extended turkey choke promises tighter patterns and increased effective range for turkey hunting. It’s a crucial piece of equipment for any serious turkey hunter looking to maximize their shotgun’s performance.

My journey to acquiring this choke tube stemmed from a frustrating season where I repeatedly missed or wounded birds due to inconsistent patterns. I needed a solution that would reliably deliver tight, dense patterns at longer ranges, giving me a better chance at a clean, ethical harvest. The promise of improved patterns and extended range, combined with the reputation of Carlson’s Choke Tubes, made this product an appealing option.

Unboxing the Carlson’s choke tube, I was immediately struck by its solid construction and clean finish. The matte blue finish looked durable, and the extended design gave it a purposeful, aggressive appearance. The weight felt appropriate for its size, suggesting quality materials were used in its construction.

Compared to a factory flush choke and a competitor’s ported turkey choke, the Carlson’s model appeared to be built with a higher level of precision. I opted for the Carlson’s choke tube over others due to the brand’s established reputation for producing consistent and reliable chokes, along with the specific .675 constriction designed for optimal turkey patterns. Furthermore, the non-ported design was appealing since I was not looking for reduced recoil as much as optimal patterning.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the build quality and design were promising, the true test would be its performance in the field, patterning various loads to see if it lived up to the hype. If it could deliver consistently tight patterns, it would be a game-changer for my turkey hunting.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 at my local shooting range, specifically setting up targets at 30 and 40 yards. The range provided a controlled environment to pattern different turkey loads and assess the choke’s performance objectively. It was a sunny day, perfect for clear visibility and consistent results.

The choke performed admirably across several different brands of turkey loads, exhibiting a consistent ability to maintain tight patterns. Even in slight crosswinds, the patterns remained centered and dense at the desired ranges. There was no need to get used to it, as it was simply installed and readily performed.

After the initial testing, I was very impressed with the consistent shot patterns it produced. The .675 constriction seemed to be the sweet spot for the specific loads I was testing. There were no malfunctions or unexpected results during the first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and numerous trips to the range to fine-tune my load selection, the Carlson’s choke tube continues to perform reliably. It has consistently delivered tight patterns, increasing my confidence in the field. It has been used in a variety of weather conditions with no changes to its performance.

The choke tube shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to numerous rounds and cleanings. The matte blue finish remains intact, and the threads are still sharp and secure. Maintenance is simple, involving a basic cleaning with a choke tube wrench and solvent after each shooting session.

Compared to my previous experiences with factory chokes, the Carlson’s choke tube significantly outperforms them in terms of pattern density and consistency. The tighter patterns have allowed me to extend my effective range, leading to cleaner and more ethical harvests. It has truly elevated my turkey hunting game.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns with the Benelli Crio Plus choke system. It boasts a .675-inch diameter constriction, optimized for tight turkey patterns at extended ranges. The choke tube extends approximately 1 inch beyond the end of the barrel, offering a slight increase in sighting plane.

Constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, the choke offers exceptional strength and corrosion resistance. It also features a matte blue finish, reducing glare and providing a durable, aesthetically pleasing exterior. The 1.050-inch parallel section is engineered to optimize pattern performance with various turkey loads. Note that this choke is NOT for use with steel shot.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the choke’s performance and longevity. The .675 constriction is the key to achieving dense patterns, while the stainless steel construction ensures durability and resistance to the elements. The extended design offers a slight aiming advantage, and the parallel section contributes to pattern consistency.

Performance & Functionality

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 excels at its primary job: delivering extremely tight and consistent patterns for turkey hunting. This translates to increased effective range and a higher probability of a clean kill. The results are immediate and impressive, with noticeably denser patterns compared to factory chokes.

One of its strengths lies in its versatility. It performs well with a variety of lead and copper-plated turkey loads. However, its key weakness is the restriction on steel shot. It meets and exceeds expectations, providing a significant improvement in pattern performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The choke tube’s design is simple and functional, with a focus on durability and performance. The 17-4 stainless steel construction gives it a robust feel, and the matte blue finish reduces glare and provides a clean look. Its extended design facilitates easy installation and removal with a choke tube wrench.

The choke’s weight is appropriate for its size and doesn’t negatively impact the shotgun’s balance. Installation is quick and easy. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 is built to last. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion and wear, even under harsh hunting conditions. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward: simply remove the choke after each use, clean the threads and bore with a solvent, and apply a light coat of oil. With just a minimal amount of care and maintenance, it is easy to maintain and repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 does not come with any specific accessories, as it is a standalone product. Its compatibility with various aftermarket choke tube wrenches offers some customization options. Users can choose a wrench that suits their personal preferences.

This choke tube works seamlessly with any 12-gauge shotgun that uses the Benelli Crio Plus choke system. It can be paired with various turkey loads, allowing hunters to fine-tune their setup for optimal performance. Be sure to follow manufacturer recommendations for ammunition types and sizes.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675?

This choke tube is perfect for serious turkey hunters who own a 12-gauge shotgun with the Benelli Crio Plus choke system and are looking to improve their pattern density and effective range. It’s also suitable for hunters who value durability and reliability in their equipment. Experienced hunters seeking a competitive advantage will also benefit greatly from this choke tube.

Hunters who primarily use steel shot or are unwilling to experiment with different loads to find the best pattern should skip this product. Similarly, those on a very tight budget may find cheaper alternatives, although they may not offer the same level of performance and durability. Hunters that do not have the Crio Plus system would obviously not want this product.

A high-quality choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for installing and removing the choke. Additionally, purchasing a variety of turkey loads to test and pattern is essential for achieving optimal performance.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 is a highly effective and well-built choke tube that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and increased range for turkey hunting. Its durable construction, consistent performance, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters. If you are looking to increase your chances of a clean harvest, I highly recommend the Carlson’s choke.

The price of $58.49 is justified by the choke’s quality, performance, and potential to improve hunting success. Given the cost of ammunition and time spent hunting, the Carlson’s choke offers a good return on investment.

I would personally recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 to any turkey hunter looking to maximize their shotgun’s potential. Upgrade your choke, pattern your gun, and get ready to put some birds on the ground!