The Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube Review You’ve Been Looking For
For years, I’ve been chasing those elusive gobblers, and as any seasoned turkey hunter knows, every advantage counts. This pursuit led me to the Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube, a specialized piece of equipment designed to tighten shot patterns and extend effective range. My Benelli Super Black Eagle II, a trusted companion in the field, deserved an upgrade in its choke department to truly maximize its potential for turkey hunting. After a frustrating season with inconsistent patterns at longer distances, I started researching options that promised superior performance. While many aftermarket chokes exist, Jebs Choke Tubes has a reputation for precision engineering, and this particular model, specifically the Head Hunter for Benelli’s Crio system, seemed to align perfectly with my needs. I considered some other well-known brands, but the specific design and touted benefits of the Head Hunter piqued my interest more. The initial impression upon holding this choke tube was one of solid craftsmanship; its matte finish and precise threading suggested quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing grounds were primarily the local shooting range and, more importantly, several early morning hunts in familiar turkey territory. I started by patterning the choke with various loads, including Federal Premium Wing-Shok and Hornady Heavy Magnum Turkey, focusing on consistency at ranges from 20 to 50 yards. The choke’s performance in different conditions was notable; it maintained tight patterns even with a slight morning dew on the firearm and held up exceptionally well after repeated firing over several range days. The installation process was straightforward; it threaded into my Benelli SBE-11 smoothly, and the Benelli Crio system fit was precise. My initial surprise was the noticeable reduction in felt recoil, which Jebs attributes to its unique internal design.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and multiple hunts, this choke tube has become a permanent fixture on my turkey gun. It has endured dusty conditions, the occasional bump against tree bark, and the rigors of being carried afield. Despite this, there are no visible signs of wear and tear on the finish or the threading. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple cleaning with a bore snake and a light application of gun oil after each outing keeps it in pristine condition. Compared to the factory choke tube that came with my shotgun, the improvement in shot density at range is undeniable. My previous experience with generic chokes often involved inconsistent patterns or noticeable fliers, issues that this Jebs choke has effectively eliminated.
Breaking Down the Features of Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube
Specifications
The Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube is engineered with specific dimensions to optimize shot delivery for turkey hunting. It features a 0.56 in constriction diameter, which is a critical factor in achieving dense shot patterns at extended ranges. This specific constriction is designed to work synergistically with modern turkey loads, promoting optimal shot-to-wad separation for tighter groupings. The choke tube system it’s built for is the Benelli Crio, ensuring a perfect fit and seal within compatible Benelli shotguns like the Super Black Eagle II and M2. Its Matte finish not only contributes to a professional aesthetic but also helps to reduce glare in the field.
The manufacturer is Jebs Choke Tubes, a company dedicated to producing high-performance choke tubes. This particular model is specifically designed for the 20 Gauge and compatible with Benelli firearms. The precise constriction of 0.56 inches is not arbitrary; it’s a calculated value that balances pattern density with the ability to maintain lethal energy downrange. This specification is crucial for hunters who aim to ethically harvest turkeys, ensuring clean kills when the opportunity arises.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube is to create a tighter, more consistent shot pattern than standard chokes. In my testing, this choke excels at its intended purpose. When using loads like the Long Beard XR #6, it delivered impressively dense patterns out to 50 yards, far surpassing what I achieved with my previous choke. The user feedback about “mind-blowing good” performance with Small Town Blend ammunition proved true; these patterns were exceptionally uniform and tight, giving me confidence in follow-up shots if necessary.
This choke’s ability to reduce felt recoil is another significant functional advantage. The design, described as having a conical or bi-pod shape internally, seems to manage the gas and shot column in a way that softens the impulse felt by the shooter. This makes follow-up shots quicker and less jarring, a definite plus during a hunt where a second chance might be needed. The shot-to-wad separation is clearly enhanced, as evidenced by the clean edges of the patterns and the lack of wadding embedded within the shot cloud on paper targets.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Jebs Head Hunter is functional and robust, reflecting its purpose. The Matte finish is a practical choice, minimizing reflections that could alert wary game. The external dimensions are standard for a Benelli Crio choke, ensuring a flush fit and easy installation with a standard choke tube wrench. There’s a subtle knurling at the exterior end, providing a bit of grip if you need to hand-tighten or loosen it in the field, though I found it best to use a tool for proper torque.
The internal geometry is where the real magic happens, though it’s not visible without specialized tools or disassembly. Jebs Choke Tubes claims a design that aids in shot column management and recoil reduction. This translates to a comfortable shooting experience, even with heavier turkey loads. The overall build quality feels exceptional; the material is high-grade steel, and the machining is precise, with no rough edges or imperfections.
Durability & Maintenance
From my experience, the Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube is built for longevity. The hardened steel construction means it’s resistant to the erosive effects of modern shotshells, especially those with plated shot. I haven’t encountered any issues with carbon buildup or corrosion, even after hunting in damp conditions. The recommended maintenance is simple: clean after each use, and a light oiling is sufficient. There are no complex parts to wear out or delicate mechanisms to worry about.
The choke’s threading is precise, meaning it screws in and out smoothly without binding. This is important, as galling of threads can be a problem with lesser-quality choke tubes. Jebs’ emphasis on quality materials and manufacturing processes ensures that this choke should last for many hunting seasons to come, providing consistent performance year after year.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular product, the Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube, is a direct replacement for your shotgun’s existing choke tube and does not typically come with additional accessories. Its primary “customization” is its specialized design for turkey hunting, and its compatibility with the Benelli Crio system. While Jebs does offer other choke tube models with different constrictions and for various shotgun systems, this specific Head Hunter is focused on a particular niche. However, users of Benelli shotguns with the Crio system have a wide range of compatible choke tubes from Jebs and other manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube
Pros
- Exceptional pattern density at extended ranges, significantly improving hit probability.
- Noticeable reduction in felt recoil, leading to a more comfortable shooting experience and quicker follow-up shots.
- Superior shot-to-wad separation, resulting in cleaner patterns and less fliers.
- Durable construction from high-quality materials, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Precise fit for Benelli Crio systems, guaranteeing a secure seal and optimal performance.
- Excellent performance with a variety of modern turkey loads, as confirmed by user feedback.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to standard or generic choke tubes.
- Limited to Benelli Crio-compatible shotguns, restricting its use for owners of other brands.
- Does not include any additional accessories, as it’s a single replacement part.
Who Should Buy Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube?
This choke tube is an ideal choice for serious turkey hunters who own a Benelli shotgun compatible with the Benelli Crio system, such as the Super Black Eagle II or M2. If you frequently hunt in open fields or situations where shots might extend beyond 40 yards, this choke will provide the pattern density and range needed for ethical harvests. It’s perfect for those who have invested in premium turkey ammunition and want to maximize its potential.
However, this specific choke tube is not for everyone. Shooters who own Benelli models with different choke systems (e.g., Mobile, Vinci) will need to look for a different Jebs model. Furthermore, casual hunters who rarely take shots beyond 30 yards might find the premium performance and cost of this specialized choke tube to be overkill. For those who need a versatile, all-around choke for various types of bird hunting, a more general-purpose choke might be a better fit. I would recommend a good quality range bag to carry your ammo and shooting accessories to the field, and a reliable cleaning kit specifically designed for shotguns.
Conclusion on Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube
The Jebs Choke Tubes Head Hunter 20 Gauge Benelli SBE-11/M2 Crio Turkey Choke Tube is a top-tier aftermarket accessory that delivers on its promises of enhanced pattern performance and shooter comfort. For turkey hunters wielding compatible Benelli platforms, this choke tube represents a significant upgrade, turning a capable shotgun into a highly specialized gobbler-getter. The investment, while higher than standard options, is justified by the tangible improvements in pattern tightness, range, and recoil management. The user feedback regarding its exceptional performance with specific loads like Small Town Blend only reinforces its effectiveness.
Based on my extensive field and range testing, I wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube to any dedicated turkey hunter looking to optimize their Benelli 20-gauge shotgun. It’s a testament to the precision engineering that Jebs Choke Tubes is known for, offering a reliable and potent advantage in the pursuit of America’s favorite game bird. If you own a compatible Benelli and are serious about your turkey hunting, this specialized choke tube is a worthwhile, and likely game-changing, addition to your arsenal.