Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675 Review

Behind the Box: Testing the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675

After a season of inconsistent patterning, I found myself searching for a choke tube that could elevate my consistency in the field. My trusty Browning, while a reliable platform, was leaving me questioning my shot placement more than I liked, especially when the birds were presenting challenging angles. The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675 caught my eye with its promise of enhanced shot cloud control and tighter patterns. It boasts an extended, knurl-ground design, crafted from stainless steel, which immediately conveyed a sense of robust quality. I had considered a few other aftermarket options, including some more budget-friendly, non-ported tubes, but the Kicks Industries’ specific mention of improved trajectories and denser patterns, particularly with heavier loads, tipped the scales. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, precision manufacturing; it felt substantial in hand and the finish was impeccably smooth. There was a quiet satisfaction in holding a piece of equipment that seemed purpose-built for performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with this choke tube was on a crisp autumn morning, specifically targeting pheasants in a familiar game preserve. I fitted the Kicks Gobblin Thunder into my Browning A-5, using a selection of 12-gauge loads, predominantly #4 and #5 shot, ranging from standard velocity to magnum offerings. The installation was straightforward, threading in smoothly with a satisfying snugness, and it sat flush with the barrel, feeling secure. The ported design was immediately noticeable during the shot; there was a distinct reduction in muzzle climb, allowing for quicker follow-up shots if necessary. My initial patterns were impressively consistent, with noticeably fewer flyers and a tighter overall spread than I’d become accustomed to with factory chokes.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and across various shooting disciplines—from clays to waterfowl blinds—this choke tube has proven itself to be remarkably reliable. I’ve subjected it to numerous cleaning cycles, and the stainless steel construction shows no signs of corrosion or significant wear. The knurled exterior provides excellent grip, even with cold or wet hands, making installation and removal simple tasks. I’ve used it with a wide array of ammunition, including HEVI-Shot and copper-plated loads, and its performance has remained consistently excellent. Compared to some other extended chokes I’ve used that required frequent tightening or showed premature wear, this Kicks Industries model has held up exceptionally well, maintaining its precise constriction.

Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675

Specifications

The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675 is engineered with specific performance metrics in mind. It features a .675 constriction, which translates to a tight pattern ideal for longer ranges, often referred to as a “turkey” or “extra full” constriction in traditional terms. The Browning Invector Plus (+) choke tube system ensures compatibility with a wide range of Browning and other firearm manufacturers that utilize this popular threading. Constructed from high-grade Stainless Steel, it offers excellent resistance to corrosion and the harsh elements often encountered in outdoor pursuits.

This choke tube measures 6 inches in overall length, providing an extended design that aids in easier gripping and installation without the need for a choke wrench. The ported design is a key feature, strategically placed to reduce muzzle jump and felt recoil, which contributes to faster target acquisition for subsequent shots. This extended design also acts as a barrel cleaner, keeping the muzzle area free from excessive fouling.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Gobblin Thunder choke is to enhance shot pattern density and consistency, and it absolutely delivers. With loads like #4 and #5 shot, I’ve observed significantly tighter patterns at ranges exceeding 40 yards, with a remarkable reduction in stray pellets. The ported design effectively manages gas expulsion, which not only aids in recoil reduction but also contributes to a more stable platform for consistent aim. It handles heavier loads with grace, producing denser patterns without the excessive flyers that plague some other chokes.

While its primary strength lies in extending effective range for game birds like turkey and large waterfowl, its performance with smaller shot sizes for upland game is also commendable, offering a very consistent, usable pattern. It successfully bridges the gap between a standard field choke and a specialized turkey choke. The only minor consideration is that its extreme constriction might be too tight for very close-range shots with larger shot sizes, potentially creating a narrower kill zone than desired for running birds at 15 yards.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Kicks Industries choke is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The extended length is a practical choice, extending about 1.5 to 2 inches beyond the barrel, making it easy to grip and manipulate. The knurling on the extended portion is aggressive enough to provide a secure hold, even with gloved hands or when the choke is dirty.

The blackened stainless steel finish gives it a subdued, professional look that complements most shotgun finishes. Its 6-inch length also means that the ports are strategically placed further out, minimizing any potential disruption to the shot column right at the muzzle. The overall build quality feels robust; it’s a solid piece of machined steel that inspires confidence in its durability.

Durability & Maintenance

The stainless steel construction is the cornerstone of this choke’s durability. After countless rounds and exposure to rain, mud, and various field conditions, it still looks and performs as if it were new. I’ve made it a habit to clean it after each significant outing, a simple process of unscrewing, brushing out any debris, and wiping it down with a light coat of oil.

There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms to worry about, which minimizes potential failure points. The extended design also makes it less susceptible to damage from minor impacts compared to flush-mount chokes. I haven’t encountered any issues with thread wear or the choke becoming stuck, even after prolonged use with high-brass loads.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675 typically comes as a standalone choke tube. It does not include any additional accessories, which is standard for this type of firearm component. However, its compatibility with the Browning Invector Plus system means it can be used with a wide variety of shotgun models from Browning and other manufacturers that have adopted this system.

For those who frequently change ammunition types or shooting scenarios, having a collection of different constriction chokes from Kicks Industries can be beneficial. However, for its intended purpose of providing a tighter pattern for longer shots, this particular model is designed to be a highly effective, single-purpose tool.

Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675

Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for serious waterfowl hunters and turkey hunters who need to extend their effective range and ensure a dense, lethal pattern. It’s also a great option for sporting clays shooters who frequently encounter longer crossing or incomer targets and want more consistent patterns. Anyone with a shotgun utilizing the Browning Invector Plus system who is looking to maximize their shotgun’s performance for mid-to-long range shooting will find this choke highly beneficial.

Those who primarily hunt upland game at very close ranges (e.g., flushing quail or rabbits in thick cover) might find this choke to be too restrictive. For such scenarios, a more open choke like a Modified or Improved Cylinder would be more appropriate. A dedicated cleaning kit for choke tubes and a good supply of your preferred ammunition are recommended accessories to get the most out of this component.

Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675

The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .675 stands out as a high-performance choke tube that delivers on its promises. Its robust stainless steel construction, user-friendly extended design, and exceptionally effective ported system make it a valuable upgrade for any shooter seeking enhanced accuracy and pattern consistency. The .675 constriction is expertly tuned to produce dense, reliable patterns at longer distances, proving its worth for serious hunting pursuits.

Considering its price point of $69.57, the value proposition is strong. It offers performance that rivals, and in many cases surpasses, more expensive options, providing a significant return on investment in terms of improved shooting results. I would unequivocally recommend this choke tube to dedicated hunters and shooters who utilize a compatible Browning system and are looking to optimize their shotgun’s performance for extended range engagements. It’s a piece of equipment that doesn’t just look good; it performs, giving you the confidence to take those challenging shots.