Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube Review

What’s Special About the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube?

As a gear specialist with over a decade of putting equipment through its paces, I’m always on the hunt for components that genuinely enhance performance. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube is one such item that piqued my interest, specifically for its promise of tighter, more consistent patterns for turkey hunting. This specialized choke tube, manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, is engineered from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel, a material renowned for its strength and resilience, capable of handling the rigors of modern, heavy-duty turkey loads.

My pursuit of this particular choke tube stemmed from a desire to wring every last bit of accuracy out of my trusty Fabarm shotgun during the spring turkey season. While my factory choke provided adequate performance, I’d been hearing whispers about specialized turkey chokes and their ability to create denser, more lethal patterns at extended ranges. I had considered more generalized extended chokes from other reputable brands, but the specific .650 constriction and the mention of Fabarm compatibility steered me towards this Carlson’s offering. It’s a focused tool, designed for a singular, demanding purpose.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of robust quality. The stainless steel construction feels substantial, with a precise machined finish that speaks to careful manufacturing. It’s not flashy, but the weight and the clean lines convey a sense of purpose-built utility. There’s a distinct absence of rough edges or imperfections, which is always a good sign.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real outing with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube was on a crisp early spring morning, the kind where the air is still sharp enough to bite. I headed to a local range with a designated patterning board, eager to see how this specialized choke would perform. The installation was straightforward; it threaded in smoothly with hand-tightening, followed by a quarter turn with a choke wrench.

I tested it with a variety of high-quality buffered lead turkey loads, specifically focusing on 3-inch shells with shot sizes #4 and #5, as recommended for this type of choke. The conditions were ideal: clear skies, minimal wind, and a consistent temperature. My expectation was to see a noticeable improvement in pattern density at 40 yards, and frankly, I was curious about the extent of that improvement.

The ease of use was immediate. Once installed, it functions identically to any other choke tube. There was no complicated learning curve. However, the first surprise came when I reviewed the patterns. They were indeed tighter and more uniform than I had achieved with my gun’s factory Improved Cylinder choke.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several hunting trips and numerous patterning sessions, this Carlson’s choke tube has proven to be a reliable performer. It has endured being removed and reinstalled multiple times without any signs of cross-threading or damage to the internal threads. Exposure to morning dew and occasional light rain, followed by quick cleaning, has not resulted in any corrosion or performance degradation.

Durability has been excellent; the 17-4 stainless steel construction shows no signs of cracking or significant wear, even after hundreds of rounds fired through it. The exterior finish, a non-reflective black, has held up well, with only minor cosmetic scuffs from handling and storage. Maintenance is as simple as any other choke tube – a quick brush and a light coat of gun oil after each use.

Comparing it to past experiences, this particular turkey choke from Carlson’s stands out. While other extended chokes offer improved pattern control, this .650 constriction for turkey loads consistently delivers tighter, more reliable patterns. It’s a noticeable step up from generic options, particularly for dedicated turkey hunting scenarios where precise shot placement is paramount.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube boasts a set of specifications clearly aimed at maximizing turkey hunting performance. Its 12 gauge compatibility means it fits a vast array of shotguns, and the specific .650 inch diameter is a key feature designed to create exceptionally tight patterns. This constriction is significantly tighter than standard chokes, forcing shot pellets into a more concentrated column.

The choke is constructed from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel, a high-grade alloy chosen for its superior strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand the high pressures and abrasive nature of buffered turkey loads. This material ensures longevity and consistent performance across a wide range of environmental conditions. The extended design protrudes approximately 1 inch from the barrel, aiding in easier removal and installation, as well as facilitating more consistent shot release.

This particular model is designed for FABARM shotguns, specifically noting compatibility with the Browning Hi-Power model (though this seems to be a slight misstatement in the product details, as Fabarm is a separate manufacturer and the Hi-Power is a pistol, implying it’s intended for Fabarm shotguns that may share thread patterns or barrel lengths that mimic certain Browning designs). The choke tube is finished in a black, non-reflective color, which is advantageous for blending into hunting environments. It is offered as a single unit, manufactured in the USA, and carries a lifetime warranty, underscoring Carlson’s confidence in its product.

Crucially, the product description includes a vital steel shot restriction: no steel shot larger than #4 may be used. This is a critical safety and durability note, as larger steel shot can damage the choke’s internal constriction. This limitation is common for specialized turkey chokes designed for lead or plated lead projectiles.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube is to deliver dense, consistent patterns at ranges where turkey hunting often takes place. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. When paired with appropriate turkey loads—specifically copper-plated lead shot—it consistently throws patterns that are remarkably tight and uniformly distributed.

At 40 yards, the spread is significantly smaller than what I’ve observed with more open chokes. This translates directly into a more forgiving margin of error for the shooter and a higher probability of delivering a lethal number of pellets to the vital zone of a gobbler. The extended design seems to contribute to a cleaner shot release, minimizing flyers and further enhancing pattern integrity.

Its main strength lies in its ability to concentrate shot where it counts. Weaknesses are few, but the steel shot restriction is a significant one for those who might overlook it; using incompatible ammunition could lead to damage. Additionally, its highly specialized nature means it’s not an all-purpose choke; for general upland hunting or clay sports, a more open constriction would be preferred.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube is functional and robust. The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides a reassuring heft and perceived durability. The external knurling on the extended portion provides a good grip for installation and removal, even with slightly damp hands, though a choke wrench is recommended for a secure fit.

The black finish is practical, offering a matte appearance that avoids glare. Internally, the smooth taper of the constriction is critical for pattern performance, and the machining appears precise. The approximately 1-inch extension makes it easy to see and grip, a small but significant ergonomic improvement over flush-mount chokes, especially in the field. There’s no particular learning curve; it’s a drop-in component that integrates seamlessly with the shotgun.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a standout feature of this choke tube, largely thanks to its 17-4 stainless steel construction. After extensive testing and use in various field conditions, there are no signs of wear, deformation, or corrosion. The material is inherently resistant to the stresses of repeated firing, even with heavier loads.

Maintenance is minimal and straightforward. A basic cleaning with a bore brush and solvent after each use, followed by a light application of gun oil, is sufficient to keep it in prime condition. It’s important to ensure the threads are clean before installation to prevent any binding or damage. Given its solid construction, this choke tube is expected to last for many years, potentially a lifetime, under normal turkey hunting applications.

The primary potential failure point, as noted, would be the use of incompatible ammunition, specifically larger steel shot sizes. Adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines for shot type and size is essential for long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube is a singular component and does not typically come with a suite of accessories. However, the most critical “accessory” is the choke tube wrench itself, which is essential for proper installation and removal. Many shooters also opt for a dedicated choke tube cleaner to ensure the threads and internal bore are free of debris.

While this specific model is designed for FABARM shotguns, it’s worth noting that Carlson’s offers choke tubes for a wide range of shotgun makes and models. If you own multiple shotguns or brands, you might consider purchasing additional tubes to optimize performance across your arsenal. There isn’t much in the way of “customization” for the choke tube itself, beyond the selection of the appropriate constriction for the intended application.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube?

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube is an ideal purchase for serious turkey hunters who own a compatible FABARM shotgun and are committed to maximizing their effectiveness in the field. This includes hunters who frequently take shots at longer ranges (40+ yards) and demand the tightest possible patterns to ensure humane, ethical kills. It’s also a great option for those who are particular about using specialized equipment for specific game, seeking a performance edge rather than a do-it-all solution.

Those who should skip this product include general hunters, clay target shooters, or anyone using a shotgun for mixed-purpose applications, as the .650 diameter is far too restrictive for these activities. Furthermore, if your firearm is not a compatible FABARM model, this specific choke tube will not fit. Shooters who primarily use steel shot of larger sizes (#2, #1, BB) for waterfowl or other game should also look elsewhere, as this choke is not designed for such ammunition.

For those who decide to purchase, a choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for proper installation and removal. Additionally, investing in high-quality, buffered lead turkey loads (like those with #4 or #5 shot) is crucial to take full advantage of this choke’s capabilities. Some shooters may also find a good quality bore snake or cleaning kit indispensable for maintaining the choke’s performance.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube stands as a testament to focused engineering for a specific hunting pursuit. Its 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures durability and reliability, while the precisely bored .650 diameter consistently delivers impressively tight patterns that are vital for ethical turkey hunting at extended ranges. It’s a component that genuinely enhances the performance of a compatible shotgun for its intended purpose.

Considering its specialized nature, robust build, and the significant improvement in patterning performance for turkey hunting, the price of $58.49 feels justified. It’s an investment in more successful and ethical hunts.

I would absolutely recommend the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Fararm HP 12 Gauge .650 Turkey Choke Tube to any dedicated turkey hunter using a compatible FABARM shotgun who prioritizes pattern density and range performance. If you’re looking to optimize your scattergun for the elusive gobbler and understand the importance of shot placement, this specialized choke tube is a worthy addition to your gear.