What I Wish I Knew Before Buying the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full
When the quest for tighter patterns and more consistent shot strings became a personal mission, my attention turned to optimizing the very end of my 12-gauge shotgun: the choke. I was looking for a reliable, full-choke option that wouldn’t break the bank, and the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full caught my eye with its promise of enhanced performance. My previous experiences with various chokes had taught me that even small differences in design and material could translate into significant results downrange.
This particular purchase was driven by a desire to refine my accuracy during turkey hunting season and, frankly, to see if a specialized choke could really make a tangible difference in extending effective range. I needed something that felt robust and dependable, and initial impressions of the High Flyer suggested it fit that bill. The solid feel of the stainless steel construction immediately spoke of durability, a crucial factor for any piece of equipment exposed to the elements and the rigors of the field.
I had briefly considered a few other brands, mainly focusing on those offering ported designs, but the specific combination of a full choke constriction and the Kicks Industries reputation for rigorous testing made this model stand out. Ultimately, the prospect of achieving more uniform patterns and reduced muzzle jump offered a compelling reason to try it. My initial reaction upon holding it was one of quiet satisfaction; it felt precisely engineered and ready for duty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial foray with the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full took place at a local clay range, followed shortly by a dedicated turkey hunt. I installed the choke on my trusted Remington 870, ensuring a snug fit. The installation itself was straightforward, a testament to its Remington Choke system compatibility.
During the clay shooting session, I focused on firing standard 1-ounce loads of #7.5 shot at various clay targets. The ported design was immediately noticeable, producing a slight reduction in felt recoil and a remarkably stable sight picture between shots. For the turkey hunt, I opted for heavier loads of #4 buckshot, pushing the choke’s capabilities.
The performance in varying conditions was impressive; even with a light morning dew on the shotgun barrel, the choke maintained its integrity. There were no signs of corrosion or degradation after those initial uses. The choke’s functionality was intuitive; once installed, it simply performed its intended function without any fuss or need for acclimatization.
One minor surprise was the subtle change in the audible report, a common characteristic of ported chokes, which took a moment to get used to. However, no significant issues or quirks presented themselves, and the choke performed reliably from the very first firing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple hunting trips and numerous trips to the range, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full has proven its worth. It has become my go-to choke for situations demanding maximum pattern density at extended ranges. The solid stainless steel construction has held up exceptionally well, showing only the faintest signs of carbon buildup around the porting, which is easily cleaned.
Durability has been excellent; there are no signs of cracks, loosening, or performance degradation even after firing hundreds of rounds through it. The consistent patterning it delivers on paper, and more importantly, in the field, has been unwavering. Maintaining this choke is remarkably simple.
A quick clean with a bore snake and some CLP after each session is all that’s required. The ported design doesn’t seem to trap excessive fouling, unlike some other ported chokes I’ve used in the past. Compared to the generic chokes that came with my shotgun, this specialist choke offers a discernible improvement in pattern uniformity and range. It also feels more robust than some aftermarket chokes from lesser-known brands that I’ve encountered.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full
Specifications
This choke tube is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, a material known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, crucial for firearms components. It features a Full constriction, meaning it significantly narrows the shotgun barrel’s bore at the muzzle, designed to throw tighter shot patterns at longer distances. The choke system is designed to fit Remington Choke compatible shotguns, a widely adopted standard.
The High Flyer choke is also Ported, incorporating strategically placed vents near the muzzle. These ports are engineered to manage gas pressure, which helps to reduce muzzle jump and felt recoil, leading to a more stable shooting platform. The manufacturer, Kicks Industries, states it is suitable for lead, copper-plated, and Mil-Spec heat-treated ammunition, indicating a broad compatibility with common shotshell types.
The black finish provides a non-reflective, aesthetically pleasing look and adds another layer of protection against the elements. This choke is specifically designated as a 12 gauge model, ensuring it fits the correct firearm gauge. The combination of a full constriction, ported design, and durable stainless steel construction makes it a specialized tool for specific shooting applications.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full is to deliver tight, consistent shot patterns at longer ranges, and it excels in this regard. When shooting with 4-shot and 5-shot buckshot loads, patterns remained remarkably dense out to 50 yards, significantly extending the effective range for varmint and turkey hunting. Even with smaller shot sizes like #7.5, the patterns held together better than with standard factory chokes, offering more reliable hits on clay targets.
Its greatest strength lies in its ability to produce uniform patterns, minimizing flyers and maximizing the potential of premium ammunition. The ported design effectively mitigates muzzle rise, allowing for faster follow-up shots and a more controlled shooting experience, which is particularly beneficial when dealing with heavier recoiling loads. A slight weakness, though minor, is that the porting can make the sound of the shotgun report more distinct, which might be a consideration for those hunting in extremely sensitive environments.
Overall, this choke meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose. It provides a noticeable performance upgrade for shooters looking to maximize their shotgun’s accuracy and effectiveness at distance, especially when using specialized ammunition.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full is a blend of rugged functionality and thoughtful engineering. The choice of stainless steel gives it a substantial feel, hinting at its durability and resistance to corrosion. The black finish is practical, reducing glare and providing a professional appearance that blends well with most shotgun finishes.
Ergonomically, it’s designed for ease of use; the knurled section at the muzzle provides a good grip for installation and removal, even with gloved hands. The ported elements are cleanly machined and integrated into the choke’s body, adding to its sleek, functional aesthetic without appearing crude. The Remington Choke system ensures a secure and precise fit within compatible barrels.
While not strictly an ergonomic feature, the clarity of the markings indicating the constriction (Full) and manufacturer is appreciated, preventing confusion. There’s no real learning curve; once threaded in, it operates seamlessly. The overall design feels robust and purpose-built for serious use, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality equipment.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of longevity, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full appears built to last for a considerable time. The stainless steel construction is inherently resistant to rust and wear, making it ideal for harsh outdoor conditions. After extensive use, there have been no signs of structural compromise, such as cracks or deformation, even when subjected to repeated firing cycles with stout loads.
Maintenance is straightforward and minimal. A quick wipe-down with a solvent-treated cloth and a bore snake is sufficient to keep it clean and free of fouling. The ported design, while effective, does require occasional attention to ensure the ports remain clear of carbon buildup, which could potentially affect their gas-management function.
The main potential point of concern for any choke tube is cross-threading or overtightening, which could damage the threads on either the choke or the barrel. However, with proper installation and care, this model should provide reliable service for many years. Its resilience suggests it can handle the demands of regular field use without issue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full is primarily a standalone component, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with a wide array of accessories. Its primary function is to be installed directly into a compatible shotgun. However, the true “customization” aspect comes from its performance and compatibility with various ammunition types.
It is designed to work seamlessly with Remington Choke systems, making it a direct replacement or upgrade for shotguns utilizing this standard. While there aren’t physical accessories to attach to the choke itself, its effectiveness can be greatly enhanced by pairing it with the right ammunition. For instance, using premium buckshot loads or specific turkey loads will further amplify the tight patterns delivered by this Full choke.
The ported design is a permanent feature of this specific model and not something that can be altered or customized after purchase. Its value lies in its inherent design and the quality of its construction, rather than its ability to accept add-ons.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full
Pros
- Excellent Pattern Density: Delivers exceptionally tight and uniform shot patterns at extended ranges, particularly with buckshot and turkey loads.
- Reduced Muzzle Jump: The ported design effectively manages gas, leading to a more stable shooting platform and quicker follow-up shots.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust stainless steel, offering superior corrosion resistance and a long service life.
- Broad Ammunition Compatibility: Works reliably with lead, copper-plated, and Mil-Spec heat-treated ammunition.
- Aesthetically Pleasing Finish: The black finish is non-reflective and adds a professional look to the shotgun.
Cons
- Limited Versatility for Close Range: As a Full choke, it is optimized for distance and may produce overly tight patterns for very close-range shooting.
- Audible Report: The porting can increase the perceived loudness of the shotgun’s report.
- Requires Specific Compatibility: Only fits shotguns with the Remington Choke system.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full?
This choke is an excellent choice for dedicated turkey hunters and long-range varmint shooters who need to maximize the effective range and pattern density of their 12-gauge shotgun. Anyone who consistently finds themselves engaging targets beyond 40-50 yards will appreciate the performance this choke offers. It’s also a great option for sporting clays shooters who specifically practice disciplines requiring tight patterns at greater distances.
Individuals looking for an all-around, do-it-all choke for various hunting scenarios, from dove to waterfowl, might find a pure Full choke too restrictive. Those shooting only at very close ranges, such as for flushing birds, would also be better served by a more open choke constriction like Improved Cylinder or Modified. Users who own shotguns with different choke systems (e.g., Beretta Optima HP, Invector-Plus) will need to look for Kicks Industries models specific to their firearm.
For those who decide to invest in this choke, I highly recommend pairing it with high-quality buckshot or turkey loads designed for extended range. Ensuring your shotgun is compatible with the Remington Choke system is paramount.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full
The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full is a purpose-built, high-performance component that delivers on its promises. Its stainless steel construction ensures longevity, while the ported design and Full constriction work in concert to create exceptionally tight and uniform patterns at distance. For the specific applications it’s designed for, it offers a significant advantage over standard chokes.
Considering its robust build quality, enhanced performance characteristics, and the price point of $66.49, the value proposition is strong. It’s a clear step up for serious hunters and shooters looking to optimize their shotgun’s capabilities for longer shots.
I would readily recommend the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke Full to any 12-gauge shotgun owner who utilizes the Remington Choke system and prioritizes extreme accuracy and pattern density for hunting or specific shooting disciplines. If you’re a turkey hunter aiming for that extra ethical yardage or a varmint shooter wanting tighter groups, this choke is a worthwhile investment.