Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube Review

The Story of My Time with the Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube

The world of firearms accessories often presents a spectrum of innovation, and sometimes, a specific component can feel like a revelation. My journey with the Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube began with a familiar frustration: inconsistent shot patterns. For years, I’d relied on standard chokes, but as my shooting practices evolved, particularly with heavier waterfowl loads, the need for something more specialized became apparent. This particular choke tube, specifically the BER.XTREMA BUCKKICKER FULL .695 model, promised an improvement in pattern density and reach, a claim that piqued my professional curiosity.

The catalyst for seeking a new choke was a recent waterfowl season that highlighted the limitations of my existing setup. While functional, my older choke struggled to deliver the tight, consistent patterns necessary for those longer, challenging shots. I needed a solution that could maximize pellet delivery at greater distances without sacrificing pattern integrity up close. Considering alternatives, I briefly looked into custom gunsmithing services and a few other aftermarket choke brands, but the specific design and advertised performance of the BuckKicker caught my eye.

Upon arrival, the initial impression of this Kicks Industries choke tube was one of robust, no-nonsense engineering. The machined steel felt solid, with a satisfying heft that spoke of quality construction. It looked like a tool designed for a purpose, built to withstand the rigors of repeated use. My first thought was a sense of pragmatic optimism; this didn’t feel like a flashy gadget but a serious piece of equipment.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube to the Test

My testing regimen focused on scenarios where enhanced shot dispersion and range are critical. This meant extensive time at the local shooting range, specifically dedicated to patterning various waterfowl loads. I also took the BuckKicker out on several hunting excursions, putting it through its paces in the often unpredictable conditions of duck blinds and marsh environments.

During initial range sessions, the performance was immediately noticeable. The choke consistently delivered tighter patterns than my previous setup, especially with 3-inch magnum loads. Even after repeated firing in quick succession, the choke maintained its integrity, with no discernible shift in performance due to heat. The installation and removal were straightforward, fitting snugly into my shotgun’s receiver without any play, a crucial aspect for consistent shooting.

Over the course of several months and numerous outings, the Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube proved to be a reliable performer. It held up admirably to exposure to damp conditions and the occasional dust and mud encountered in the field. Cleaning was simple, requiring only basic solvent and a brush, and reapplication of a light lubricant. Compared to some budget chokes that can develop minor inconsistencies or even loosen over time, this full choke maintained its point of impact and pattern tightness.

First Use Experience

The primary testing ground for this choke tube was my local outdoor shooting range, specifically focusing on patterning clay targets. I utilized a variety of 12-gauge shotshells commonly used for waterfowl, including 3.5-inch magnum loads with #2 and BB shot. The conditions were varied, ranging from crisp, cool mornings to warmer, humid afternoons, simulating typical hunting scenarios.

Ease of installation was a significant factor, and this particular choke tube installed smoothly. It threaded in without resistance and seated firmly, giving me confidence in its secure fit. This initial positive experience set the stage for a day of rigorous patterning.

I did note a slight surprise in how much tighter the patterns were compared to my previous standard full choke. While I expected an improvement, the degree of pellet density at longer ranges was more pronounced than I had anticipated, a welcome quirk. This immediately suggested its suitability for challenging long-range shots.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full waterfowl season and countless practice sessions, the durability of this choke tube has been exceptional. It has endured hundreds of rounds, including a significant number of heavy hunting loads, without any degradation in performance. The exterior finish remains intact, showing only minor cosmetic scuffs from regular handling and storage.

Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick clean with a bore snake and a light application of choke tube lubricant after each use has kept it in pristine condition. There’s no complex procedure involved, just a straightforward care routine.

In direct comparison to other choke tubes I’ve used over the years, the Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube stands out for its consistent pattern performance and robust build. While some more expensive, custom-ported chokes might offer marginal gains, this particular model strikes an excellent balance between cost and effectiveness, far surpassing many mid-range options.

Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube

Specifications

The Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube model I tested is the BER.XTREMA BUCKKICKER FULL .695. This designation tells us a few crucial things about its design and intended purpose. The “BER.XTREMA” likely refers to compatibility with Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke systems, a common standard.

The FULL designation indicates a constriction designed to significantly tighten the shot pattern. This is ideal for extending the effective range of your shotgun. The .695 specifies the internal diameter of the choke at its narrowest point.

This diameter is critically important for achieving dense patterns at longer distances. Compared to more open chokes like Modified or Improved Cylinder, a .695 constriction is designed to hold shot pellets together for a greater distance. This level of constriction is particularly effective for waterfowl hunting or situations where precise shot placement at range is paramount. The construction material, typically high-grade steel, ensures durability and resistance to wear from shot impact.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube is to tighten shot patterns, and it excels at this task. My extensive patterning sessions confirmed that it produces remarkably consistent and dense patterns, especially with larger shot sizes and heavier loads. This translates directly to increased effectiveness in the field, allowing for more humane harvests at longer ranges.

Its key strength lies in its ability to minimize shot stringing and maintain pattern integrity. This means more pellets reach the target simultaneously, increasing the likelihood of a clean kill. A minor weakness, if one can call it that, is that with very light target loads, the patterns might be too tight for traditional clay shooting, but this is precisely what it’s designed for. It meets and exceeds expectations for its intended application.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Kicks Industries BuckKicker is functional and robust. It utilizes a ported design, which is a key feature that helps to reduce muzzle jump and recoil. This porting also aids in allowing gas to escape, contributing to a more stable shot release and a potentially tighter pattern.

The knurled exterior offers a good grip for installation and removal, even with gloved hands, which is a significant ergonomic advantage in cold or wet conditions. The steel construction feels solid and well-machined, with a smooth, consistent finish. There’s a satisfying weight to it, suggesting it’s built for durability.

The choke tube fits flush with the barrel end, creating a clean profile that doesn’t snag on brush. The overall construction prioritizes performance and longevity over aesthetics, which is perfectly acceptable for a working component like this.

Durability & Maintenance

This choke tube is clearly built for the long haul. As a shooter who uses heavier loads regularly, I anticipate it will last for many seasons of demanding use. The steel construction is inherently durable, and the ported design, while functional, doesn’t appear to compromise structural integrity.

Maintenance is as simple as cleaning any other choke tube. Regular cleaning with a good solvent and a brush, followed by a light coat of lubricant, is all that’s required. There are no intricate parts or delicate mechanisms to worry about. Potential failure points are minimal, likely limited to the threads if overtightened or cross-threaded, a risk with any screw-in component.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube itself is the primary component, and it doesn’t typically come with a host of accessories. The main form of “customization” with choke tubes is selecting the appropriate constriction for your intended use and firearm. This specific model, the FULL .695, is part of a range of constrictions offered by Kicks Industries, allowing users to choose based on their specific needs.

While no additional accessories are included, compatibility is a key factor. This choke tube is designed to fit shotguns utilizing the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke system. This means it is likely to be compatible with a wide range of popular shotgun models from manufacturers that adopt this standard.

Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube

Who Should Buy Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for any waterfowl hunter who frequently encounters longer shots. It’s also highly recommended for turkey hunters who rely on tight patterns to take down wary birds at a distance. Shooters who engage in long-range shotgun disciplines or simply want to maximize the effective range of their scattergun will also find significant benefit.

However, if your primary use involves close-range shooting, such as skeet or sporting clays with lighter loads, a more open choke might be a better fit. Individuals whose shotguns do not use the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke system will need to look for compatible options from Kicks Industries or other manufacturers.

A must-have accessory would be a good quality choke tube wrench or a reliable choke tube lubricant to ensure smooth installation and maintenance. For those new to choke tube selection, consulting a knowledgeable gunsmith or experienced shooter can help determine the optimal constriction for your specific firearm and intended quarry.

Conclusion on Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube

The Kicks Industries BuckKicker Choke Tube is a testament to well-executed engineering focused on practical performance. It reliably delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and improved downrange effectiveness, making it a valuable asset for serious shotgunners. The blend of robust build quality, effective recoil management through its ported design, and the exceptional pattern density it produces solidifies its place as a top-tier accessory.

Considering its price point, the value proposition is outstanding. It offers performance that rivals much more expensive options without compromise on durability. For the dedicated waterfowl or turkey hunter, or anyone looking to push the effective range of their shotgun, this choke tube is an easy recommendation. It’s a component that, once installed, you can largely forget about, trusting it to perform consistently when you need it most.