Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes Review

A Close Look at the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes

For any dedicated turkey hunter, the pursuit of that elusive gobbler often comes down to a few critical milliseconds and the ability of your shotgun to deliver a devastatingly tight pattern at range. I’ve spent over a decade in the field, the workshop, and on the range, learning what works and what doesn’t when it comes to essential gear. Recently, I found myself in need of a choke tube that could specifically optimize my Benelli shotgun for the potent Winchester Long Beard ammunition. After some research, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes stood out as a promising candidate, specifically engineered for this purpose.

My previous experience with turkey hunting, particularly with specialized loads, highlighted the need for precision. I was consistently hitting a wall with my existing choke, and I knew it was time for an upgrade that could push the boundaries of effective range and pattern density. The promise of Carlson’s Choke Tubes’ Shot-Lok Technology, designed to enhance terminal ballistics and penetration, was particularly appealing. This wasn’t just about a new accessory; it was about unlocking the full potential of my chosen ammunition and firearm for those crucial moments in the spring woods.

Holding this choke tube for the first time, my initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. Machined from 17-4 stainless steel, it felt substantial and well-made, with a smooth, matte black finish that spoke of durability. It certainly exuded a confidence that suggested it could withstand the rigors of countless hunting seasons. I had briefly considered a more generic turkey choke, but the specific pairing with Winchester’s Long Beard line felt like a strategic advantage I couldn’t ignore. This initial feel, coupled with the manufacturer’s claims, immediately sparked a sense of anticipation for putting it to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at a familiar outdoor range, a controlled environment where I could meticulously evaluate pattern performance at various distances. I mounted the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes onto my Benelli, a straightforward process that took mere minutes. The fit was snug and secure, as expected for a system designed for a specific shotgun platform. I loaded up with Winchester Long Beard shells, the very ammunition this choke is tuned for, and headed to the 20-yard line first.

The results were immediately apparent. The shot pattern was exceptionally tight, significantly more so than with any previous choke I had used with this load. Moving back to 40 yards, the pattern remained remarkably consistent, with a dense core and fewer flyers than I’d become accustomed to. Even at the advertised extended ranges of 50+ yards, the choke maintained an impressive degree of pattern integrity. Throughout this initial testing, the choke tube performed flawlessly, with no signs of stress or issue, even after repeated firing.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of the recent turkey season and several subsequent range sessions, this choke tube has become a permanent fixture on my Benelli. It has endured early morning dew, occasional dust from dry conditions, and the vibration of being carried in a shotgun case for miles. The 17-4 stainless steel construction has proven its worth; there are no visible signs of corrosion or wear on the exterior or the internal constriction. The internal threading remains clean and free of debris, making removal and reinstallation a breeze, which is crucial when cleaning my firearm in the field.

Compared to some other turkey chokes I’ve used in the past, which sometimes developed subtle shifts in pattern or required more diligent cleaning to maintain peak performance, this Carlson’s model has been remarkably consistent. Budget-friendly chokes often show wear much faster, and while premium options can be excellent, the performance-to-price ratio here is exceptionally strong. It’s a component that simply does its job, reliably and without fuss, trip after trip.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes are built with specific performance goals in mind, and their specifications reflect that. Constructed from rugged 17-4 stainless steel, this material offers excellent strength and corrosion resistance, vital for any component exposed to the elements. The choke system is designed for Benelli Crio Plus shotguns, ensuring a precise fit and reliable cycling.

This particular turkey choke features a 0.58-inch diameter, a constriction carefully engineered to work with specific turkey loads. It is a non-ported design, which contributes to consistent shot string management and avoids the potential for gas loss that can sometimes affect ported chokes. The choke tube comes as a single unit, and importantly, includes a choke wrench for easy installation and removal. This attention to detail in material selection and design ensures longevity and optimal performance for its intended purpose.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this choke tube is to deliver tight, consistent patterns, especially when paired with Winchester’s Long Beard ammunition, and it excels at this. The patterns are noticeably denser and more uniform at ranges exceeding 50 yards compared to standard chokes. This translates directly into increased effectiveness and confidence when a shot opportunity arises.

The standout strength is its ability to optimize specific high-performance turkey loads. The advertised 10% greater penetration over standard lead shot at distances of more than 50 yards is not just marketing jargon; it’s a tangible difference in terminal ballistics observed in my field tests. A minor consideration, though not a weakness, is that its optimized performance is most evident with the specific ammunition it’s designed for; results might vary with other load types. It unequivocally meets and often exceeds the expectations set for a dedicated turkey choke.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this choke tube is functional and robust. The 17-4 stainless steel offers a reassuring heft, and the matte black finish provides a non-reflective surface, which is always appreciated in hunting applications. The internal constriction is precisely machined, contributing to the tight patterns observed.

Ergonomically, it’s a simple component designed to be installed and forgotten until cleaning or choke changes are needed. The knurled end, while subtle, provides just enough grip for hand-tightening before the wrench is used for a final snugging. The inclusion of a dedicated choke wrench in the package is a thoughtful touch that enhances usability right out of the box. There’s no real learning curve; it’s a drop-in upgrade that works as intended.

Durability & Maintenance

Built from 17-4 stainless steel and manufactured in the USA, this choke tube is engineered for durability. I expect it to last for many hunting seasons without showing significant signs of wear, given its robust material and construction. It’s designed to withstand repeated firing and exposure to various environmental conditions.

Maintenance is straightforward. After a day in the field, a quick brush and wipe-down of the shotgun’s barrel interior and the choke threads are typically all that’s needed. Occasional disassembly and cleaning, especially after shooting corrosive ammunition (though less common with modern turkey loads), will ensure its longevity. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, and the design itself doesn’t suggest any obvious weaknesses that would lead to premature failure under normal use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary accessory included with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes is a handy choke wrench. This is essential for proper installation and removal, particularly in the field. Beyond this, the choke tube itself is a single component, and there are no inherent customization options in terms of color or material finishes.

However, its compatibility is key. It is specifically designed for Benelli Crio Plus shotguns, meaning it’s not a universal fit. This specificity is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and preventing any damage to the shotgun’s barrel. While it doesn’t offer aesthetic customization, its singular focus on performance with specific ammunition on a particular shotgun platform is its greatest asset.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes?

This choke tube is an ideal choice for dedicated turkey hunters who own a Benelli shotgun with the Crio Plus barrel system. If you regularly use or plan to use Winchester Long Beard turkey loads, this choke will significantly enhance your shotgun’s performance. It’s perfect for hunters who prioritize extreme pattern density and terminal ballistics at longer ranges, and who are looking for a reliable, durable upgrade.

Individuals who do not own a compatible Benelli shotgun, or who do not use Winchester Long Beard ammunition, should look elsewhere. This choke is highly specialized. For those looking to maximize their effectiveness in the field, investing in a high-quality turkey call and perhaps a rangefinder to complement this choke would be wise. It’s a component that requires a specific platform and ammunition to truly shine, making it a targeted upgrade rather than a general-purpose accessory.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Long Beard Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tubes is a testament to specialized engineering. For the discerning turkey hunter armed with a compatible Benelli shotgun and a preference for Winchester Long Beard ammunition, this choke tube delivers on its promises. The tangible improvements in pattern density and penetration at extended ranges are significant, offering a newfound confidence in the field. Its construction from 17-4 stainless steel ensures it will be a reliable tool for years to come.

Considering its price point of $65.49, the value proposition is excellent for the performance enhancement it provides. While its specialization means it won’t be for everyone, for the hunter whose setup aligns with its design, it is an easy recommendation. I wholeheartedly endorse this choke tube for its effectiveness, durability, and the targeted performance boost it offers those serious about turkey hunting.