The Real Deal Behind the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Rifled Chokes 20 Gauge Benelli Crio Choke Tube
My pursuit of consistent accuracy with my 20 gauge Benelli, particularly when using slugs, led me to the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Rifled Chokes 20 Gauge Benelli Crio Choke Tube. For years, I’d been pushing the limits of standard smoothbore barrels for slug accuracy, and the results were, frankly, frustratingly inconsistent. While I dabbled with other brands, I was specifically looking for a rifled choke designed for the Benelli Crio system, known for its precision and reliability. Upon receiving this particular choke, my initial impression was positive; the 304 high stress stainless steel construction felt robust and the matte black finish gave it a professional, understated look. Compared to the factory choke, this felt like a significant upgrade in build quality, though I’d also looked at some aftermarket options that promised similar features at a slightly lower price point, but ultimately decided the Carlson’s reputation and specific design for my Benelli were worth the slight premium. My immediate reaction was a cautious optimism, a feeling that this might finally be the piece of the puzzle I needed for better slug performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Rifled Chokes 20 Gauge Benelli Crio Choke Tube to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Carlson’s rifled choke was at a local outdoor range, specifically testing its capabilities with various rifled slugs and sabot slugs. I’d pre-selected a few brands and weights of ammunition, aiming for a comprehensive evaluation. The installation was straightforward, threading in smoothly with no resistance, a good sign for barrel thread compatibility.
During these initial sessions, the choke demonstrated a clear improvement in shot-to-shot consistency with slugs. Even under a light drizzle that started halfway through my range time, the choke’s performance remained unaffected, a testament to its durable construction.
The learning curve was virtually non-existent; it performed as expected immediately upon installation, requiring no special handling or adjustments beyond selecting the appropriate ammunition. My only minor surprise was how much more stable the slug impact felt on the target, even at extended ranges.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, which included multiple range days and a few excursions for pest control, this rifled choke has proven its mettle. It has held up remarkably well to repeated firing cycles with various slug types.
There are no visible signs of stress, cracks, or performance degradation; the rifling remains crisp, and accuracy has remained consistently good. Cleaning is as simple as unscrewing the choke, wiping it down with a bore cleaner and a brush, and then re-oiling; it takes mere minutes.
Compared to some generic choke tubes I’ve used in the past, which sometimes showed wear patterns after only a dozen uses, this Carlson’s model feels built to last. It’s certainly outperformed those budget options and holds its own against more expensive, specialized chokes I’ve encountered.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Rifled Chokes 20 Gauge Benelli Crio Choke Tube
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Rifled Chokes 20 Gauge Benelli Crio Choke Tube is precisely engineered for optimal slug performance from a smoothbore barrel. It’s constructed from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, a material chosen for its exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion and wear. This choke tube features a right-hand rifle twist of 1:35, specifically designed to impart spin on slugs, thereby improving their aerodynamic stability and accuracy.
Each choke tube extends from the muzzle of the barrel, adding a tactical look and feel while enhancing handling. The specified groove diameter of .730 inches is crucial for proper slug fit and consistent release, ensuring the slug engages the rifling without excessive constriction. Its matte black finish not only provides a professional aesthetic but also offers an additional layer of protection against the elements.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role, this rifled choke tube significantly enhances the accuracy of slug ammunition fired from a smoothbore barrel. The 1:35 right-hand twist effectively stabilizes slugs, resulting in tighter shot groups at typical hunting and defense distances.
It performs exceptionally well with all types of slugs, including standard rifled slugs and sabot rounds. While it’s not designed for buckshot or birdshot, its specific rifled design directly addresses the needs of slug shooters, offering improved predictability and accuracy.
This choke tube meets and, in many cases, exceeds the expectations for its intended purpose, offering a noticeable upgrade over firing slugs through a standard smoothbore without any choke. Its functionality is specifically tailored for slug stabilization.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Carlson’s rifled choke tube is straightforward and functional, focusing on delivering enhanced slug accuracy. Its construction from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel translates to a solid and durable feel, reassuring the user of its robust build quality.
The matte black finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, minimizing glare during shooting. As an extended choke, it protrudes slightly from the barrel, making it easier to grasp for installation and removal compared to flush-mounted chokes.
The internal rifling is cleanly machined, providing a consistent surface for the slug to engage. There are no extraneous features or complexities, ensuring that its design directly supports its intended function without compromise.
Durability & Maintenance
This rifled choke tube is built for longevity and resilience in typical shooting environments. The 17-4 stainless steel is inherently resistant to rust and the stresses of firing, suggesting it will last for many years of regular use.
Maintenance is minimal and straightforward; after each shooting session, it’s recommended to clean out any lead or copper fouling from the rifling. A simple solvent and a bore brush are usually sufficient for this task, followed by a light application of gun oil.
I’ve not encountered any significant wear points or potential failure modes in my usage. Its sturdy construction suggests it can withstand minor impacts or drops without compromising its structural integrity or functionality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Rifled Chokes 20 Gauge Benelli Crio Choke Tube itself is a specialized component, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with a wide array of accessories. It is designed as a direct replacement or upgrade part for specific shotgun models.
The primary “accessory” in this context is the lifetime warranty that Carlson’s Choke Tubes offers, which provides significant peace of mind regarding its durability and performance. There are no inherent customization options for the choke tube itself, beyond selecting the correct gauge and choke system for your firearm.
However, its compatibility with the Benelli Crio system means it integrates seamlessly with Benelli shotguns that utilize this specific choke threading. This ensures proper fit and function without requiring further modifications.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Rifled Chokes 20 Gauge Benelli Crio Choke Tube
Pros
- Significantly improves slug accuracy from smoothbore barrels due to its 1:35 rifle twist.
- Constructed from robust heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel for exceptional durability.
- Matte black finish offers a professional look and added protection.
- Easy to install and remove, especially with its extended design.
- Backed by a lifetime warranty from Carlson’s Choke Tubes.
Cons
- Only effective with slug ammunition; not designed for shot.
- May require purchasing specific slug types that work best with rifled chokes.
- Price point is higher than a basic smoothbore choke tube.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Rifled Chokes 20 Gauge Benelli Crio Choke Tube?
This rifled choke tube is ideal for 20 gauge shotgun owners who primarily use their firearm for hunting medium to large game where slugs are the preferred projectile. It is also an excellent choice for those who engage in dynamic shooting competitions or home defense scenarios where slug accuracy is paramount.
Individuals who shoot standard birdshot or buckshot should look elsewhere, as this choke is specifically engineered for slugs. Furthermore, if your shotgun is not equipped with the Benelli Crio choke system, this particular model will not be compatible.
For those serious about maximizing slug performance, I’d recommend pairing this choke with high-quality slugs known for their accuracy, such as Federal Premium Vital Shok or Winchester Partition Gold. These combinations have consistently delivered impressive results.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Rifled Chokes 20 Gauge Benelli Crio Choke Tube
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Rifled Chokes 20 Gauge Benelli Crio Choke Tube delivers on its promise of enhanced slug accuracy from a smoothbore barrel. Its robust 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures long-term reliability, and the 1:35 rifle twist design effectively stabilizes slugs for tighter patterns. For any shooter looking to wring the most accuracy out of their 20 gauge Benelli shotgun when using slugs, this choke tube is a worthwhile investment.
Considering its performance benefits, durable build, and the backing of a lifetime warranty, the price of $72.49 feels justified for the substantial improvement it offers in accuracy and consistency. I would confidently recommend this rifled choke to any Benelli Crio system owner who prioritizes accuracy with slug ammunition for hunting or defensive applications.