How the Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube Performed Under Pressure
The search for the perfect turkey choke can be an obsessive one for many wing shooters. After years of experimenting with various constrictions and brands, I found myself needing a reliable constriction for my Browning 20 gauge, specifically for those challenging long-range gobblers. The Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube emerged as a strong contender, boasting a reputation for tight patterns and durable construction. My specific need was to achieve consistent, dense patterns at extended ranges without sacrificing bird quality up close.
My previous experiences with chokes had been a mixed bag, ranging from overly restrictive tubes that opened patterns too quickly to those that simply didn’t live up to their advertised constriction. I was looking for something that struck a balance, offering a significant advantage in range while remaining predictable. I considered other reputable brands like Carlson’s and Briley, but the specific design of the Pinhoti, coupled with Trulock’s established pedigree, piqued my interest. My initial impression upon handling this choke was one of solid craftsmanship; it felt substantial and well-machined.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for this choke tube was the local outdoor range, specifically set up for patterning shotshells. I used a Browning A5 20 gauge shotgun, a trusted platform that I knew intimately. The days were clear and cool, with minimal wind, providing ideal conditions for evaluating pattern density and consistency.
The installation was straightforward; it threaded into the receiver with satisfying smoothness, a good sign of precise machining. I focused on patterning at ranges of 30, 40, and 50 yards, utilizing various 3-inch magnum turkey loads, including Hevi-Shot and Remington Nitro-Magnums. The results were immediately impressive, showing exceptionally tight patterns at all tested distances.
There were no immediate issues or surprises; the choke simply performed as advertised. The ease of use was paramount, as I didn’t want to wrestle with a new piece of equipment right before the season.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of a full spring turkey season and several subsequent hunting trips, this Trulock choke tube proved its mettle. It endured numerous deployments in varying weather conditions, from damp, early morning dew to dry, dusty afternoon shoots. Repeated firing through the choke showed no discernible degradation in performance; patterns remained tight and consistent, shot after shot.
The durability of the Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube is evident. Despite being removed and reinstalled multiple times and enduring the recoil of magnum loads, there are no signs of stripping threads, wear on the internal constriction, or any adverse cosmetic changes beyond minor handling marks. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a solvent-dampened cloth after each outing is all it requires.
Compared to some budget chokes I’ve used in the past, which could become stiff or even develop slight flaring after heavy use, this Trulock model felt robust. It performed on par with, and in some cases exceeded, more premium options I’ve tested, especially considering its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube
Specifications
The Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube is constructed from high-grade steel, ensuring its resilience against projectile impact and corrosion. It is specifically designed for Browning Invector Plus (+) choke tube systems, meaning it will only fit shotguns equipped with this specific receiver threading. This particular model is a 20 gauge choke tube and is designed to provide a turkey-specific constriction.
The Pinhoti model typically offers a .065 constriction, which translates to a Modified/Improved Cylinder equivalent in terms of openess but is designed for optimal pellet delivery of modern turkey loads. This specific constriction is engineered to create exceptionally dense patterns at longer ranges, a critical factor for successful turkey hunting. The black finish offers a non-reflective surface, crucial for maintaining concealment in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this choke tube is to deliver tight, consistent patterns of turkey-specific shot at extended ranges, and the Trulock Pinhoti excels at this. Its performance is characterized by incredibly dense patterns that maintain a high pellet count within the vital zone of a turkey out to 50 yards and beyond, depending on the ammunition. This exceptional patterning capability is its defining strength.
A minor point of consideration, though not a functional weakness, is that for very close-range shots (under 20 yards), the patterns might be too tight, potentially causing excessive pellet damage to the bird. However, this is a characteristic of any specialized turkey choke and is easily managed by understanding the choke’s capabilities. It meets and significantly exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this choke tube is immediately apparent. The steel construction feels robust, and the machining is precise, with no rough edges or imperfections. The external knurling at the muzzle end provides a decent grip for hand-tightening and removal, although a choke tube wrench is always recommended for proper installation and removal.
The design is functional and purposeful; its extended design, while not excessively long, helps in easier removal and installation. The black finish is practical for hunting, reducing glare. There’s no real learning curve; it’s a screw-in component designed for a specific shotgun system.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction and the reputation of Trulock, this choke tube is built for longevity. Under normal hunting conditions, it should easily last for decades. It is designed to withstand the forces generated by firing shotshells repeatedly.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple cleaning after each use with a quality bore solvent and a rag is sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. It’s important to ensure the threads are clean and lightly oiled before installation to prevent galling. Potential failure points are minimal, but like any threaded component, cross-threading during installation is a risk if not careful.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube is typically sold as a single unit. No additional accessories are typically included, as it is designed to integrate directly into compatible Browning shotguns. Customization is limited to selecting the correct choke system for your firearm.
However, its compatibility with the Browning Invector Plus (+) system means it fits a wide range of Browning shotguns. For users seeking alternative constriction patterns within the same system, Trulock offers other Invector Plus chokes.
Pros and Cons of Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube
Pros
- Exceptional Pattern Density: Delivers remarkably tight patterns at extended ranges, ideal for turkey hunting.
- High-Quality Steel Construction: Built to last with durable, robust steel materials.
- Precise Machining: Ensures a good fit and consistent performance with compatible firearms.
- Designed for Turkey Loads: Optimized for the performance of modern magnum turkey ammunition.
- *Excellent Value: Offers premium performance at a competitive price point.
Cons
- *Too Restrictive for Close Range: Patterns may be excessively tight for shots taken at very close distances.
- System Specific: Only compatible with Browning Invector Plus (+) systems, limiting its application.
- No Included Wrench: A separate choke tube wrench is necessary for proper installation and removal.
Who Should Buy Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube?
This choke tube is an excellent choice for serious 20-gauge turkey hunters who utilize Browning shotguns equipped with the Browning Invector Plus (+) system. It’s particularly well-suited for those who frequently hunt in open terrain where longer shots are common and who reload their own turkey shells or utilize premium factory loads designed for maximum range. If you prioritize tight, consistent patterns at 40, 50, or even 60 yards, this choke will significantly enhance your effectiveness.
However, hunters who primarily operate in dense woods and take most of their shots within 25 yards might find this choke too restrictive. Those who own Browning shotguns with different choke tube systems (like Invector or Invector-DS) will need to look for alternative models. I’d also recommend ensuring you have a good quality choke tube wrench, as it makes installation and removal much easier and safer, preventing potential damage to the threads.
Conclusion on Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube
The Trulock Browning Invector Plus 20 Ga Pinhoti Turkey Choke Tube is, without a doubt, a top-tier performer for its intended application. It successfully bridges the gap between advanced ballistic engineering and practical field usability, delivering the tight, consistent patterns necessary for clean, ethical kills at challenging distances. Its robust steel construction promises longevity, and the precise manufacturing ensures reliable integration with compatible Browning shotguns.
Considering its performance, durability, and the significant advantage it offers in long-range turkey hunting, the $43.99 price point represents outstanding value. I would readily recommend this choke tube to any dedicated 20-gauge turkey hunter who owns a Browning shotgun with the Invector Plus system and frequently encounters situations requiring extended range accuracy. For those seeking to maximize their effectiveness on wary gobblers at distance, this Trulock choke is a wise and worthwhile investment.