Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full Review

What I Found Using the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full

For years, I’ve relied on precision components to achieve consistent results, whether I’m fine-tuning a delicate lab instrument or dialing in a shotgun for specific performance. When I encountered a need for a more aggressive choke specifically for extended-range shooting with higher velocity loads, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full immediately caught my attention. Its promise of managing recoil and flyers while pushing velocity with an extra-full constriction presented a compelling case.

My search was driven by a desire to tighten patterns significantly, especially when pushing standard loads to their advertised velocities, which often resulted in noticeable pattern degradation and increased perceived recoil. I needed a solution that wouldn’t just squeeze the shot but also manage the gas dynamics in a way that smoothed out the shooting experience and improved consistency.

Initial impressions of the choke were positive. The stainless steel construction felt robust, and the black finish was uniformly applied. The large porting was visibly distinct, hinting at its unique approach to gas management. While I considered other standard extra-full chokes from major manufacturers, the unique ported design of this Kicks Industries model set it apart, suggesting a more nuanced performance profile. A quick glance at the machining gave me a sense of well-crafted reliability, sparking a bit of anticipatory satisfaction.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor shooting range, a familiar environment where I regularly test firearms and accessories. I fitted the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full into my trusted Remington 12-gauge shotgun, ensuring a secure fit. The installation itself was straightforward, as expected for a Remington Choke system.

I tested the choke with a variety of 12-gauge loads, specifically focusing on those advertised with higher muzzle velocities, including buckshot and slugs. The initial shots were revealing; there was a discernible difference in felt recoil compared to a standard extra-full choke, even with the hotter loads. The expulsion of gases through the large ports was audible, and the muzzle seemed to stay flatter on target.

The ease of use was immediate; it installed and functioned like any other high-quality choke tube. There were no unexpected quirks or complex adjustments needed. My only minor surprise was the distinct whoosh sound from the ports, a direct auditory confirmation of the gas management at work.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and a few field outings, this Kicks Industries choke has proven to be remarkably reliable. It’s become my go-to for situations demanding tight patterns at distance. The choke tube has held up exceptionally well to repeated firing with a variety of ammunition, showing no signs of significant wear or performance degradation.

Durability has been excellent; there are no noticeable cracks, stiffness, or any reduction in its choking effect. The stainless steel construction has resisted any signs of corrosion, even after being exposed to light moisture on a couple of damp mornings. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each significant use keeps it in pristine condition. I found no specific points to watch out for beyond standard choke tube care.

Compared to budget choke tubes I’ve used in the past, the performance difference is substantial, particularly in pattern consistency with high-velocity loads. It also holds its own against other premium chokes, offering a unique advantage with its ported design.

Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full

Specifications

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full is constructed from stainless steel and features a black finish. It is designed for 12 gauge shotguns and utilizes the Remington Choke system, making it compatible with a wide range of Remington firearms, as well as other brands that employ the same threading. The choke type is Extra Full, indicating a very tight constriction for maximum shot pattern density at extended ranges. A key feature is its ported design, with large ports intended to manage gas expulsion and reduce recoil.

The Extra Full constriction is crucial for achieving extremely tight patterns, which is beneficial for long-range accuracy. The ported design, a distinct feature of Kicks chokes, is engineered to bleed off gases, theoretically reducing felt recoil and muzzle jump, allowing the shot payload to travel with greater velocity and less disturbance. This combination aims to minimize “flyers” and improve shot distribution. The stainless steel material ensures a durable and corrosion-resistant component, suitable for various environmental conditions encountered in the field or at the range.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full performs exceptionally well, especially when paired with faster ammunition. It consistently delivers noticeably tighter patterns than standard extra-full chokes, proving its efficacy for extended range shooting. The reduction in perceived recoil is indeed apparent, making follow-up shots quicker and more comfortable.

The major strength of this choke lies in its ability to manage higher velocity loads, minimizing flyers and enhancing pattern density where other chokes might struggle. Its ability to maintain a smooth operation, even after numerous firings, speaks volumes about its design. A slight area for consideration might be the audible sound generated by the ports, which, while not detrimental to performance, is more pronounced than with non-ported chokes.

Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for its intended purpose, offering a significant performance upgrade for shooters seeking maximum downrange effectiveness with their 12-gauge shotgun. The price point feels justified by the noticeable improvement in shot grouping and recoil management.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full is readily apparent from the moment you handle it. The stainless steel feels substantial, and the black coating is uniform and resists scuffs well during installation and removal. The large, precisely machined ports are a prominent visual cue to its unique gas-management system.

Ergonomically, the choke tube is designed for straightforward installation and removal, fitting flush with the barrel of compatible shotguns. The machined surfaces provide adequate grip for hand-tightening and removal, though using a choke tube wrench is always recommended for proper torque. There’s no real “learning curve” here; it functions as expected within the familiar Remington Choke system.

Practical design elements include the clear indication of the constriction level, typically etched onto the choke itself. The overall feel is one of robust engineering, designed for reliability under demanding conditions.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, this Kicks Industries choke tube is built for longevity. Under normal shooting conditions, I anticipate it will last for many thousands of rounds, offering consistent performance throughout its lifespan. The stainless steel construction is inherently resistant to wear and corrosion, which are common failure points in lesser materials.

Maintenance is as simple as with any other quality choke tube. A quick clean with a solvent and a bore brush after each shooting session is sufficient to remove any fouling and ensure optimal performance. Storing it properly in a choke tube case or within the shotgun’s original case will further protect its finish and threading.

I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, but as with any threaded component, ensuring the threads are clean and properly lubricated is key to preventing galling or difficulty in removal.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full is a singular component; it does not come with additional accessories. Its customization lies primarily in its function as a performance-enhancing choke tube, rather than a platform for add-ons. It is designed to be compatible with the Remington Choke system, meaning it will work with any shotgun manufactured to accept this standard.

While there are no direct customization options for the choke tube itself, its effectiveness can be “customized” by the choice of ammunition it is paired with. Selecting specific shot sizes, velocities, and payload types can further fine-tune the pattern results delivered by the Extra Full constriction and ported design.

Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full

Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full?

This choke is an excellent choice for hunters and shooters who frequently engage targets at longer distances and utilize higher velocity ammunition. If you are a hunter focused on varmints, predators, or waterfowl where extended range is a factor, this choke will significantly enhance your shot consistency. It’s also ideal for sport shooters who are pushing the limits of their 12-gauge shotgun and want to achieve the tightest possible patterns.

Individuals who should probably skip this product are those primarily engaged in close-quarters shooting, such as skeet, trap, or close-range hunting scenarios where an extra-full constriction would be detrimental. Shooters who prefer quieter operation without any significant porting noise might also want to consider alternatives. For those looking for a versatile choke suitable for all disciplines, a more moderate constriction or interchangeable system would be a better fit.

An essential complementary item for anyone using this choke would be a quality choke tube wrench for proper installation and removal, along with a good supply of your preferred high-velocity 12-gauge ammunition.

Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Rem Choke X-full stands out as a specialized tool for serious shotgun enthusiasts. Its innovative ported design, combined with an extra-full constriction, delivers impressive performance for those seeking maximum range and pattern integrity, especially with faster loads. The robust stainless steel build and reliable functionality make it a dependable component for demanding applications.

Considering its performance enhancements, particularly the recoil reduction and pattern tightening capabilities, the price is well-justified for its intended audience. It offers a tangible improvement over standard chokes for specific shooting tasks.

I would confidently recommend this choke tube to any experienced shooter who prioritizes long-range accuracy and smoother shooting dynamics with their 12-gauge Remington-compatible shotgun. If your shooting demands tight patterns at extended distances and you use higher velocity ammunition, the High Flyer is a compelling upgrade that truly delivers.