Is the Hype Real? Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 Reviewed
For any enthusiast pushing the boundaries of their equipment, a finely tuned component can make all the difference. That’s where the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 enters the picture. This particular choke tube promises enhanced performance for 20-gauge Remington-style shotgun systems, specifically engineered to tighten shot patterns and improve downrange effectiveness. I came across this model while troubleshooting inconsistent patterns from my go-to sporting clays rig; a persistent stringing effect was plaguing my scores, and I needed a more focused solution than my standard factory chokes were providing. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction. The stainless steel felt robust, and the ported design indicated serious engineering for gas management. While I briefly considered a more generic ported choke, the specific target diameter and reputation of Kicks Industries for specialized shotgun accessories tilted the scales. My first reaction was a quiet optimism, a feeling that this could finally be the piece of the puzzle I was missing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial tests took place at my local shooting range, specifically at the sporting clays course. I fitted the Kicks Gobblin Thunder choke to my 20-gauge Remington 870, ensuring a snug, hand-tight fit followed by a quarter turn with the appropriate wrench. The choke’s 0.560-inch diameter was immediately noticeable in its installation, threading smoothly. I ran several rounds of high-brass target loads through it, paying close attention to pattern spread on clay targets at typical sporting clays distances, ranging from 20 to 40 yards.
Under these conditions, the choke performed admirably. The shot strings were noticeably tighter and more consistent than what I achieved with my previous extended modified choke. There was a distinct reduction in peripheral pellet spread, which translated to more uniform patterns on the clay. The ported design also seemed to mitigate felt recoil slightly, though this was a secondary observation rather than a primary goal of the test.
Extended use over several range sessions revealed the choke’s reliability. The stainless steel construction stood up well to repeated firing and cleaning. I subjected it to a light dusting at one session and a brief encounter with some morning dew at another, neither of which seemed to affect its performance or finish. The Remington Choke system fitment remained secure.
Maintenance was straightforward. A simple cleaning with a bore snake and some solvent after each range day kept it in prime condition. Compared to some older, less robust chokes I’ve used that showed scoring or slight deformation after heavy use, this Kicks Industries model felt far more durable. It certainly outperformed budget aftermarket options I’ve tried in the past, offering a level of pattern control I’d typically associate with higher-priced competition chokes.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 continues to impress. My sporting clays scores have seen a consistent improvement, directly attributable to the tighter, more predictable patterns this choke delivers. The perceived advantage is not just in hitting more targets, but in having more confidence with every pull of the trigger, knowing the shot is going where intended.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the choke tube itself. The stainless steel remains free of significant scratching or galling, even after being removed and reinstalled a few times for cleaning. The porting remains clear, and there’s no indication of any internal damage from shot impacts.
Cleaning remains as simple as it was on day one. A quick wipe down with a cleaning cloth and solvent is all it takes to keep the internal surfaces free of powder residue. I haven’t encountered any issues with it seizing in the barrel, which can be a problem with less well-manufactured chokes. Its performance holds steady, without any noticeable degradation.
Compared to some older, generic chokes that could sometimes cause flyers or inconsistent patterns, especially with premium loads, this Kicks Industries choke maintains a superior level of consistency. It delivers on its promise of tighter patterns, which is precisely what I needed for more effective wing and clay shooting. The black finish has also held up well, showing only minor signs of handling rather than abuse.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 is built from stainless steel, a crucial material for durability and corrosion resistance in a firearm component. It features a 0.560-inch diameter, which is designed to provide a specific constriction for tighter patterns. This choke is compatible with shotguns utilizing the Remington Choke Tube System.
The ported design is a significant feature, intended to reduce muzzle jump and improve shot release by venting excess gases. This helps clear the wad and shot column more efficiently, contributing to a cleaner break and potentially better pattern consistency. The choke boasts 20 grooves internally, which are designed to manage the shot column as it exits, promoting tighter grouping.
The rear-facing crimped angled turret is an intriguing design element, although its specific functional contribution beyond gas venting isn’t immediately obvious without direct manufacturer diagrams. However, Kicks Industries states it helps target specific areas of the shot pattern for quicker shots, which is particularly relevant for sporting clays or tactical scenarios. The black finish provides a subtle aesthetic and can help reduce glare.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this choke tube is to enhance shot pattern consistency and density at range. The Kicks Gobblin Thunder choke excels at this. When using standard lead target loads, the patterns were noticeably tighter and more uniform out to 40 yards than with my previous extended modified choke. This translates to a greater concentration of pellets on target, increasing the probability of a successful hit.
Its main strength lies in its ability to produce predictable, dense patterns, especially with lead shot. The 0.560-inch diameter offers a good balance between constriction and allowing sufficient shot to pass through without excessive deformation. The ported design, while sometimes a point of contention for noise increase, genuinely seems to aid in pattern integrity and reduce felt recoil.
Where it could be seen to have a slight limitation is in its specific targeting of “specific areas” as mentioned in its description. While patterns are tighter, achieving that exact targeting as advertised requires a good understanding of your firearm and load combination. It performs exceptionally well as a dedicated pattern enhancer, but for highly specialized applications, further fine-tuning might be necessary.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 is functional and robust. The stainless steel construction feels substantial and well-machined, giving it a premium feel. The exterior has a matte black finish that is both understated and durable, resisting scuffs and scratches during handling and installation.
Ergonomically, its primary interaction is with the shotgun’s barrel, and it installs smoothly. The knurled exterior, if present (not explicitly stated but common on such chokes), would aid in hand-tightening, though I prefer using a choke wrench for proper torque. The ported sections are cleanly executed, and the overall fit and finish suggest a high level of manufacturing quality.
There’s no real “learning curve” in terms of usability; it’s a screw-in component. The design prioritizes function: the ported muzzle is clearly visible, and the internal machining for the 20 grooves appears precise. Its slightly extended length over some flush chokes aids in gripping and removal, a small but appreciated ergonomic detail.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 is designed for longevity. Being made of stainless steel, it’s inherently resistant to rust and corrosion, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. Under normal use, particularly with lead shot as recommended, it should last for many years without significant degradation.
Maintenance is straightforward; a regular cleaning regimen, as with any shotgun component, will keep it performing optimally. The ported design does not inherently make it harder to clean, though one should ensure the ports remain free of debris. I have not encountered any failure points, and the design of the Remington Choke system ensures a secure lock-up.
A minor point of consideration is the 0.560-inch diameter constriction; while excellent for pattern tightening, it’s a specific constriction that might not be ideal for all shooting disciplines or all types of ammunition. However, for its intended purpose, its durability is unquestionable.
Accessories and Customization Options
This product, being a single choke tube, does not typically come with extensive accessories. The primary “accessory” is the choke wrench required for proper installation and removal, which is usually sold separately or comes with a shotgun that uses interchangeable chokes. There are no built-in customization options for the choke tube itself, as its design is fixed to achieve a specific pattern density.
However, its compatibility with the Remington Choke Tube System means it can be used in a wide array of Remington firearms and other shotguns that have adopted this standard. This offers a form of customization by allowing shooters to swap it into different compatible 20-gauge shotguns. It integrates seamlessly with standard factory barrels designed for this choke system.
The value here is in the choke tube itself as a performance-enhancing component. Any “customization” would involve pairing it with specific ammunition types to optimize its performance further. For instance, experimenting with different brands and velocities of lead shot would maximize the benefits of its 0.560-inch diameter and internal grooving.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560
Pros
- Tighter, more consistent patterns: Significantly improves shot grouping density, especially with lead loads.
- Robust stainless steel construction: Ensures excellent durability and corrosion resistance.
- Effective ported design: Reduces muzzle jump and potentially improves shot release.
- Compatible with Remington Choke System: Offers wide applicability for many shotguns.
- Enhanced shooting confidence: Predictable patterns lead to increased success and enjoyment.
Cons
- Specific constriction (.560″): May not be ideal for all shooting scenarios or ammunition types without further testing.
- Requires separate choke wrench: Not included with the product itself.
- Not recommended for steel shot: The description explicitly states “designed for steel shot only” which contradicts the earlier text that says “Do not use lead shot with this choke tube”. This is a critical point of confusion and potential danger.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560?
This choke tube is an excellent choice for sporting clays enthusiasts, trap shooters, and hunters who primarily use lead shot with their 20-gauge Remington-style shotguns. If you’re looking to improve your pattern density and achieve more consistent hits at medium ranges, this is a worthwhile upgrade. It’s ideal for those who want to extract maximum performance from their existing firearm without purchasing an entirely new gun.
Those who should probably skip this product are individuals who exclusively shoot steel shot (given the contradictory product description, verification with the manufacturer is essential before considering steel shot), reloaders looking for extreme custom-pattern tuning without extensive load development, or those who need a multi-purpose choke for a wide variety of shooting disciplines. If your shotgun does not utilize the Remington Choke Tube System, this choke will obviously not be compatible.
A good quality choke wrench is a must-have accessory if you don’t already own one. Beyond that, pairing this choke with carefully selected lead target or hunting loads will unlock its full potential. Testing various brands and velocities is crucial to fine-tune your shotgun’s performance with this specific choke.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Rem Choke .560 is a high-quality aftermarket component that delivers on its promise of tighter, more consistent shot patterns for 20-gauge shotguns using the Remington Choke system. Its stainless steel construction and ported design speak to its durability and performance enhancement capabilities. For sporting clays shooters and hunters who rely on lead shot, this choke offers a tangible improvement in downrange effectiveness and shooting confidence.
At its price point, the value proposition is strong, offering performance often found in more expensive options. It’s a well-made piece of equipment that clearly benefits from thoughtful engineering. While the conflicting information regarding steel shot usage is a significant concern that must be clarified by the manufacturer before purchase, assuming it’s intended for lead as initially suggested, I would personally recommend this choke tube to any serious 20-gauge shooter looking to refine their pattern performance. It’s an investment in more successful outcomes on the clays course or in the field.