From Curiosity to Confidence: My Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack Review
For years, my waterfowl hunting has been a pursuit of refinement, constantly seeking ways to improve my shotgun’s performance in the field. My previous set of chokes, while functional, left me wanting more consistent patterns, especially at longer ranges. This is where the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack entered my radar. Carlson’s Choke Tubes has a solid reputation, and the promise of their TST technology and extended parallel sections was compelling. I considered a few other aftermarket options, but the inclusive three-choke waterfowl package from Carlson’s felt like the most complete solution for my Browning Invector Plus system. A quick look at the heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel construction and the wrench-less installation feature offered immediate positive impressions of solid engineering and user-friendly design. My initial reaction was one of keen anticipation for what these tubes could bring to my shooting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on a blustery autumn morning at my local shooting range, specifically at the patterning boards. I used standard waterfowl loads with lead and steel shot, focusing on consistency across different distances. The tubes screwed in smoothly by hand, a welcome change from the sometimes-finicky nature of flush-mount chokes.
The most immediate observation was the significantly tighter and denser patterns produced, especially with the Mid and Long Range tubes. Flyers seemed noticeably reduced, and the uniformity of the shot spread was impressive across various loads. There were no surprises or quirks; the installation was straightforward, and the immediate visual feedback from the patterning boards was highly encouraging.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of a full waterfowl season, these chokes have become a permanent fixture in my shotgun. From the early teal hunts to late-season diver shoots, they’ve endured relentless use in rain, sleet, and even a bit of freezing weather. The heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel has shown zero signs of wear, no cracks, stiffness, or performance degradation.
Maintenance has been incredibly simple; a quick rinse with water and a light wipe-down with a silicone cloth after each outing is all they require. Compared to some older chokes I’ve used that developed rust or felt gritty over time, these Carlson’s units remain as smooth and reliable as day one. They’ve certainly outperformed any budget options and easily held their own against more expensive, specialized choke tubes.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack includes three distinct choke tubes designed for 12 gauge shotguns utilizing the Browning Invector Plus system. These tubes are constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, a robust material known for its excellent strength and corrosion resistance. Each choke features an extended parallel section, a design element crucial for achieving tighter and denser patterns by providing a more controlled pellet transition.
The key differentiator is the integrated TST (Traction-Choke Technology), which employs a series of graduated rings. This technology facilitates a more gradual constriction of the shot column, minimizing pellet deformation and reducing flyers. The manufacturer specifies these chokes are suitable for use with lead, steel, Hevi-Shot, and Bismuth loads, offering significant versatility.
This pack provides three choke types: Close Range, Mid Range, and Long Range. This variety is invaluable, allowing shooters to tailor their shotgun’s performance to specific shooting distances and conditions, a critical advantage over single-choke offerings or generic flush-fit tubes. The wrench-less installation and quick removal are practical design choices that enhance user experience, especially in the field when quick adjustments might be necessary.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of any choke tube is to control shot pattern density and spread, and the Cremator tubes excel here. The Close Range tube delivers exceptionally wide patterns, perfect for those heart-stopping moments over decoys where instinct takes over. Moving to the Mid Range tube, I observed a noticeable increase in pattern density at typical duck hunting distances, ensuring clean kills.
The Long Range tube proved its worth when targeting wary mallards or late-season divers at extended ranges. The patterns remained surprisingly uniform and dense, far exceeding what I expected from a non-ported design. The advertised reduction in pellet deformation and flyers is clearly evident in the cleaner shot strings on the patterning paper.
While the product description mentions porting for recoil reduction, the “Non-Ported” designation in the product name is accurate; these tubes do not have ports. This, however, is a strength for waterfowl hunting where ports can sometimes introduce their own acoustic or visual disruptions. The lack of ports on these specific tubes likely contributes to their straightforward performance and consistent patterning. The main strength is the tailored performance for each range category, directly translating to more effective shots in the field. A minor consideration is that, without ports, the recoil reduction is solely dependent on the load itself, but this is a minor point for this particular application.
Design & Ergonomics
Visually, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack are understated yet functional. The extended design with its blued finish provides a tactile grip and an easy visual reference point for choke selection without needing to remove the tube. They feel substantial and well-machined, fitting flush to the muzzle with a slight extension for grip and muzzle protection.
The wrench-less installation is a significant ergonomic win. The knurled ends allow for a secure grip, enabling hand-tightening that is both firm and easily adjustable. This feature is a real lifesaver in cold or wet weather when fumbling with a choke wrench is impractical. The graduated rings of the TST technology are subtly integrated, contributing to the tube’s overall smooth profile.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel construction, durability is a given. I’ve accidentally dropped one of the tubes on a concrete floor during a hurried field cleanup, and it emerged without a scratch or any noticeable damage. This resilience suggests they will easily last a lifetime of normal waterfowl hunting use.
As mentioned, maintenance is minimal. The smooth internal finish and the robust material resist fouling exceptionally well. A simple cleaning brush and some solvent are all that’s needed for routine care, and even after prolonged periods without cleaning, they continue to perform without issue. There are no obvious potential failure points; these are solid pieces of machined steel.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary “accessory” that comes with this package is the value of the 3-choke combo itself. This set provides the Close, Mid, and Long Range options, essentially customizing your shotgun for various scenarios right out of the box. There are no other included accessories, but the tubes are designed to work directly with any Browning Invector Plus compatible shotgun.
While these tubes themselves aren’t customizable in terms of materials or finish, their inclusion in a multi-pack offers the closest thing to personalized choke selection without needing to purchase individual tubes. The consistent Browning Invector Plus threading ensures compatibility and straightforward integration with compatible firearm models.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack
Pros
- Delivers exceptionally tight and dense patterns, significantly reducing flyers and improving shot consistency.
- The extended parallel section and TST technology work in synergy for superior pellet performance.
- Includes three distinct chokes (Close, Mid, Long Range), providing versatile performance for various waterfowl hunting scenarios.
- Wrench-less installation and quick removal make field adjustments effortless and convenient.
- Constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, ensuring exceptional durability and corrosion resistance.
- Compatible with lead, steel, Hevi-Shot, and Bismuth loads, offering broad ammunition flexibility.
Cons
- As non-ported tubes, they rely solely on ammunition for recoil reduction, though this is standard for many waterfowl chokes.
- The premium price point may be a consideration for budget-conscious hunters, though the value of a three-choke set mitigates this.
- Specific compatibility is limited to Browning Invector Plus systems; users with other shotgun models will need different tubes.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack?
This Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack is ideal for serious waterfowl hunters who own a Browning shotgun with the Invector Plus choke system. If you are looking to significantly improve your pattern density and consistency, especially at mid to longer ranges, these tubes are an excellent investment. They are particularly well-suited for those who hunt a variety of waterfowl species or hunt in conditions requiring different shot presentations.
Hunters who prioritize ease of use in the field will appreciate the wrench-less design. Those who shoot a mix of lead and modern non-toxic shots will also benefit from the broad load compatibility.
Shooters who primarily use shotguns with different choke systems (e.g., Beretta Optima-HP, Remington ProBore) should look for Carlson’s tubes made for those specific platforms. Additionally, individuals seeking ported chokes specifically for their recoil reduction benefits might need to explore other Carlson’s models or brands; however, for waterfowl hunting where clean kills are paramount, these non-ported tubes offer superior pattern performance. A good quality choke tube cleaning kit and a reliable gun lubricant would be useful complementary items.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Non-Ported 12 Gauge Browning Invector Plus Waterfowl Choke Tubes – 3 Pack represents a significant upgrade for any Browning Invector Plus shotgun owner serious about waterfowl hunting. The combination of advanced TST technology, extended parallel sections, and robust 17-4 stainless steel construction delivers consistently tighter and more uniform patterns that translate directly to more effective shooting in the field. The wrench-less installation adds a layer of practical convenience that is invaluable when hunting.
Considering the price and the inclusion of three distinct chokes tailored for different ranges, the value proposition is very strong. These tubes don’t just perform; they instill confidence, allowing you to trust your shot placement more than ever. I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube set to any waterfowl hunter looking to maximize their shotgun’s potential. If you own a compatible Browning, this pack is an essential addition to your hunting gear.