Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia Review

Using the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia in the Real World

As someone who has spent over a decade putting gear through its paces across diverse environments, from dusty workshops to rugged outdoor trails and meticulously controlled labs, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that not only performs but also enhances the experience. My search for a reliable, specifically designed choke tube for my ported 12-gauge shotgun led me to the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia. This particular model caught my eye due to its unique ported design, promising optimized performance with modern ammunition and, notably, ported barrels. I was experiencing inconsistent patterns with my previous generic choke, particularly when using denser, harder shooting materials, and the felt recoil was becoming a persistent annoyance during longer shooting sessions. While I considered a few other reputable brands like Briley and Carlson’s, the specific claims about recoil reduction and improved pattern stabilization for ported barrels made this Kicks Industries offering stand out. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship; the stainless steel felt robust, and the ported design, while intricate, looked precisely engineered. This unit offered a tangible sense of purpose-built functionality.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this choke tube took place at my local shooting range, specifically during a session focused on patterning with various 12-gauge loads. I installed the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia onto my ported Winchester shotgun, ensuring a snug and secure fit as per the manufacturer’s instructions. The installation itself was straightforward, comparable to other high-quality choke tubes I’ve used. On the firing line, the difference was immediately apparent; the felt recoil felt noticeably reduced, making follow-up shots quicker and more controlled. The patterns produced were tighter and more consistent than what I was achieving before, particularly with heavier loads designed for maximum pellet energy. I experienced no unexpected issues or quirks during this initial period, only a sense of refined performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, spanning multiple hunting trips and countless hours on the patterning range, the Gobblin Thunder choke has proven its mettle. It has held up exceptionally well to repeated firing and the occasional exposure to damp conditions common in field use. There are no visible signs of wear and tear such as cracks, galling, or performance degradation, which speaks volumes about its durable stainless steel construction. Cleaning and maintenance are as simple as any other quality choke tube; a quick brush and solvent application after each session is sufficient, and it stores easily in my shotgun’s hard case. Compared to some budget choke tubes I’ve used in the past that began to show wear after only a few outings, this Kicks Industries model clearly outperforms them in terms of longevity and consistent performance. It easily stands up against other premium brands I’ve tested, offering comparable, and in some aspects superior, results for ported barrels.

Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia

Specifications

The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia is constructed from high-grade stainless steel, finished in a non-reflective Black color, ensuring excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. It is designed for 12-gauge shotguns and utilizes the Winchester Choke tube system. The critical specification is its precise 0.665 in diameter, which Kicks Industries specifies as ideal for ported barrels and for use with specific ammunition types. This choke tube features a Ported design, incorporating dual-stage porting technology, a key feature that sets it apart. This advanced porting system is engineered to manage gas pressure more effectively, thereby stabilizing the wad and mitigating recoil. The manufacturer explicitly recommends not using steel shot with this particular choke.

The 0.665 in diameter is a moderately constrictive, yet open, constriction suitable for various shooting disciplines where consistent patterns are paramount. The stainless steel construction means it can withstand the rigors of repeated firing and environmental exposure without rusting or deforming. The Winchester Choke system compatibility ensures it fits a wide range of popular shotguns, simplifying the upgrade process for many users. The Ported design is not just for aesthetics; the dual-stage porting actively redirects gas, which directly translates to a more manageable shooting experience.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any choke tube is to shape the shot pattern, and the Gobblin Thunder excels at this, particularly with its intended applications. Its 0.665 in constriction, combined with its ported design, consistently delivers tighter, more uniform patterns than I’ve observed with standard chokes on ported barrels. This is especially noticeable with modern, high-velocity loads where wad stabilization is crucial. The most significant strength is the noticeable reduction in felt recoil; it makes a tangible difference during extended shooting sessions, allowing for better focus and accuracy.

A key advantage is its performance with ported shotguns, where it seems to leverage the barrel’s ports to its full potential. The manufacturer’s warning against using steel shot is a crucial point; this choke is optimized for lead, tungsten, or other non-steel projectile types where pellet deformation is less of a concern. While its performance is impressive, its specific design might not be the absolute tightest pattern for extreme long-range scenarios that might call for a more restrictive, non-ported choke, but for its intended purpose, it exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia boasts a functional, no-nonsense design that prioritizes performance. The stainless steel material gives it a substantial feel, and the Black finish is practical and resistant to scratches. The Ported design is intricately machined, with clean edges and precisely drilled ports that look and feel professional. Installing it into my shotgun was a smooth process; the threads engaged easily without any binding.

While not a product with traditional “ergonomics” in the sense of a grip, its design contributes to overall shooting comfort through recoil reduction. The flush-mount design means it doesn’t snag on gear or cause discomfort when shouldering the firearm. The dual-stage porting, while complex in its engineering, is seamlessly integrated into the choke’s profile, presenting no unintended protrusions or sharp edges. Its utilitarian design is a clear indicator that this choke is built for purpose and reliability.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its stainless steel construction and my extended testing period, the Gobblin Thunder choke is built for the long haul. It’s designed to be a reusable component that can withstand thousands of rounds. The inherent properties of stainless steel make it resistant to the harsh chemicals found in cleaning solvents and the corrosive effects of moisture and residues left by shot.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. After a day afield or a range session, I simply unscrew the choke, give it a good scrub with a bore brush and solvent, rinse it off, and dry it thoroughly before reinstallation. There are no complex parts to disassemble or maintain, and no specific lubrication points beyond a light coat of gun oil on the threads before reinstallation to ensure it never seizes. I haven’t encountered any failure points, but I’d advise against over-tightening it, as this could potentially damage the threads on either the choke or the barrel.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia is a single, specialized component; therefore, it does not come with any additional accessories. Its customization options are limited to its intended use case, focusing on the specific type of ammunition and firearm it is designed for. Compatibility is primarily defined by its Winchester Choke system designation, meaning it will fit most Winchester-patterned barrels.

While there are no direct accessories for the choke itself, users often pair specialized chokes with specific types of ammunition, such as Hevi-shot loads, which are recommended by Kicks Industries. For those looking to achieve optimal results, understanding ammunition ballistics and how they interact with a specific constriction like the 0.665 in diameter is the key to “customizing” its performance. The manufacturer’s recommendation not to use steel shot is a critical directive that acts as a limitation on its use, rather than a customization option.

Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia

Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for sporting clays shooters, hunters, and any shotgun enthusiast who specifically uses a 12-gauge shotgun with ported barrels. If you find yourself dealing with excessive recoil from your ported firearm, or if you’re looking to refine your shot patterns for increased effectiveness at moderate ranges, this model will serve you very well. It is particularly suited for those who primarily use lead, tungsten, or other non-steel shot payloads.

Individuals who primarily shoot steel shot loads, or those who own non-ported shotguns and are not seeking the specific recoil-mitigation benefits of a ported choke, should look at other options. For those who do decide to purchase this specialized choke, ensuring you have a good supply of appropriate non-steel ammunition is essential. A quality choke tube wrench is also a useful accessory for easy removal and installation, especially after the tube has been subjected to multiple firing cycles.

Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia

The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Win Choke .665 Dia is a high-performance upgrade for any shooter with a ported 12-gauge shotgun. Its innovative dual-stage porting system delivers on its promise of reduced recoil and improved pattern consistency, making it a standout component for shooters who prioritize control and effectiveness. The robust stainless steel build and precise engineering at a price point of $69.99 offer excellent value for the performance gains.

While its restriction against steel shot is a notable limitation, for those who adhere to its recommended use, this choke tube is a solid investment. I would personally recommend the Gobblin Thunder to any shooter looking to extract the best possible performance and comfort from their ported shotgun setup. It’s a testament to thoughtful design that genuinely enhances the shooting experience, rather than just being another accessory.