Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube Review

The Good, the Bad & the Real of the Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube

For years, I’ve been on the hunt for equipment that doesn’t just perform, but actively enhances my ability to perform. My search for a choke tube that could consistently deliver tighter patterns, especially with the increasingly common, harder steel shot, led me to the Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube. This particular model promises reduced flyers and better follow-up shots, a claim that immediately piqued my interest given the challenges of waterfowl hunting where every pellet counts.

The catalyst for this purchase was a frustrating duck season. My existing choke was producing patterns that were just too wide, resulting in too many cripples and missed opportunities. I needed something that could tighten things up without sacrificing pattern density, and the conical parallel design of the High Flyer, coupled with its ported construction, sounded like it could be the answer.

Upon receiving it, the initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense engineering. The steel felt robust, and the machining was precise, with no rough edges or obvious imperfections. It felt like a piece of equipment built for purpose, designed to withstand the rigors of the field rather than just look good on a shelf. I had briefly considered a competitor’s ported tube, but the High Flyer’s specific design claims for steel shot performance swayed my decision. It arrived with a sense of quiet confidence, a tool ready to prove its worth.

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

First Use Experience

My initial tests were conducted at a local outdoor range and then, more importantly, during a crisp early morning goose hunt. I fitted the choke tube into my trusted semi-automatic shotgun, ensuring a snug and secure fit, which it provided immediately. The change was noticeable even on the patterning board; the pellets were landing closer together, creating a more uniform and denser pattern than I was accustomed to.

During that first goose hunt, the difference was truly apparent. The range at which I’d normally expect a clean kill was now well within the capabilities of this choke. I took a shot at a goose at what I would consider the upper limit of my effective range, and it folded cleanly. The reduced muzzle jump, a direct result of the diagonal ports, allowed for a quicker assessment of the shot and a more confident ready position for any potential follow-up, though it wasn’t necessary on that particular bird.

The ease of use was exceptional. It threaded in smoothly, and there was no ambiguity about its installation. There were no initial surprises or quirks; it simply worked as advertised from the moment it was in the barrel.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple waterfowl trips and countless hours on the patterning range with various loads, the Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube has held up remarkably well. It has seen exposure to rain, mud, and the occasional bump against a duck blind, and it shows no signs of degradation. The steel retains its finish, and the threading remains clean and functional.

Durability has been a strong suit. There are no cracks, no signs of loosening, and crucially, no discernible drop in performance. The patterns remain consistently tight, and the benefit of the ported design in mitigating muzzle climb is still very much present with every shot. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick brush and a wipe-down are all that’s needed after each outing.

Compared to some of the generic, unported chokes I’ve used in the past, this model is in a different league. While premium brands can command higher prices, this choke offers a tangible performance upgrade that justifies its cost. It’s a workhorse that consistently delivers, proving its worth over budget alternatives that often fall short in critical areas like pattern consistency with harder shots.

Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube

Specifications

The Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube is designed with a specific purpose in mind: to provide superior patterning for waterfowl and upland game. Its conical parallel design is a key feature, engineered to improve shot patterns by reducing the number of “flyers” or stray pellets that can spoil a good shot. The choke is also equipped with diagonal ports, a design element that actively works to reduce muzzle jump, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots.

These specifications translate directly into enhanced performance in the field. The improved patterning means denser shot clouds at range, increasing the probability of a clean kill. The reduced muzzle climb makes it easier to stay on target after firing, which is invaluable when dealing with fast-moving birds or when multiple shots might be necessary. The construction material, typically hardened steel, ensures its durability and resistance to wear from various shot types, including steel.

For hunters using steel shot, which is mandated in many areas for waterfowl, this choke tube is particularly beneficial. Steel shot can be harder on standard chokes, sometimes leading to deformation or less consistent patterns. The High Flyer’s design is optimized to handle these loads, offering a distinct advantage over chokes not specifically intended for them. Its compatibility with most shotguns that accept standard Invector-style choke tubes makes it a versatile upgrade for many hunters.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube is to deliver tighter, more consistent shot patterns, and it excels at this. I observed a significant reduction in wide pattern outliers, resulting in noticeably denser shot clouds on the patterning board, especially at 30 and 40 yards. This translates directly to increased effectiveness in real-world hunting scenarios.

Its strengths lie in its ability to handle steel shot with grace and deliver predictable results. The ports effectively manage recoil, making it easier to maintain aim. The main weakness, if one can call it that, is that like any specialized choke, it performs best with specific shot types; using very light loads might not yield the same dramatic pattern improvement as with heavier waterfowl loads.

Overall, this choke tube meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose, particularly when considering its price point. It offers a substantial performance upgrade that punches above its weight, making it a worthwhile investment for any serious waterfowler or upland bird hunter. It delivers reliable functionality session after session.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the High Flyer choke tube is immediately apparent. It feels substantial and robust, crafted from what appears to be high-quality, hardened steel with a durable finish that resists scratching and wear. The machining is precise, with clean lines and a smooth exterior that feels good in the hand during installation.

Ergonomically, it’s a straightforward component; its design is focused on function over form, which is precisely what you want in a piece of hunting gear. The knurled end provides just enough grip for easy hand-tightening and removal, though a choke tube wrench is always recommended for proper installation and removal. The diagonal ports are smoothly integrated into the tube’s body, with no sharp edges that could catch on anything.

The conical parallel design is internal, of course, but it’s the functional outcome of this design that truly matters. It ensures a smooth transition for the shot column, minimizing deformation and thus maximizing pattern integrity. The overall feel is one of a well-made, reliable piece of equipment that’s built to last and perform under demanding conditions.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction and my extended testing, the Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube is built for longevity. It should withstand years of regular use, especially given its hardened steel construction and the fact that it’s designed to handle steel shot, which is often more abrasive than lead. I haven’t encountered any failure points, and I don’t anticipate any significant issues with normal maintenance.

Maintenance is thankfully simple. After each use, I clean it with a standard choke tube brush and a bit of solvent to remove powder residue and any fouling. A light coat of gun oil helps protect the exterior finish and ensures it continues to thread smoothly into the barrel. There’s nothing particularly complex or delicate about it that requires special care.

The only potential concern might be cross-threading during installation, but this is a risk with any screw-in choke tube. Proper care and attention when installing it will prevent any damage. It’s a low-maintenance component that offers high reliability in return.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube itself is the primary component; it does not typically come with additional accessories. Its primary customization comes from its intended role as an upgrade to your shotgun’s existing choke system. It is designed to be compatible with shotguns that accept standard Invector-style choke tubes, offering a direct replacement or an upgrade path for many popular models.

There are no further customization options for the choke tube itself, such as different finishes or engraved patterns, as its focus is purely on performance. However, its compatibility means you can easily swap it out with other chokes in your arsenal if needed, though I found myself consistently reaching for this one due to its performance benefits. The value lies in its direct functional improvement rather than any modularity.

Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube

Who Should Buy Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for serious waterfowl hunters, particularly those who frequently use steel shot and find their current patterns lacking. It’s also a great option for upland bird hunters who desire tighter patterns for longer shots or for denser bird flushes. If you’re looking to maximize the effectiveness of your shotgun with modern ammunition and want to reduce crippling shots, this model is a strong contender.

Those who should probably skip this product are hunters who rarely venture beyond very close-range shots or those who exclusively use lead shot at shorter distances where standard chokes might suffice. If your shotgun does not use the Invector-style choke system, this particular model will not be compatible. For those seeking extreme customizability with multiple choke constriction options beyond what this dedicated performance choke offers, other systems might be considered.

For those who decide to purchase, ensuring you have a reliable choke tube wrench is a must. It guarantees proper installation and prevents potential damage to the threads, which is crucial for maintaining the choke’s performance and longevity.

Conclusion on Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube

The Kicks Industries High Flyer Choke Tube has proven itself to be a valuable addition to my hunting gear. It delivers on its promise of tighter patterns and reduced muzzle climb, making a tangible difference in shot effectiveness, especially with steel shot. The robust construction and straightforward functionality mean it’s a reliable performer you can count on season after season.

Considering the performance boost it provides, particularly for waterfowl hunters, the price of $66.08 is more than justified. It’s an investment that pays dividends in cleaner kills and more successful hunts.

I would personally recommend this choke tube without hesitation to any hunter looking to improve their shotgun’s performance, especially those mandated to use steel shot. If you want more consistency and confidence in your shots when it matters most, the High Flyer is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.