Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 Review

My Verdict on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675

When the hunt for that perfect turkey load pattern intensifies, precision and consistency become paramount. My search for a choke tube that could reliably deliver on these fronts led me to the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675. As an equipment specialist with a decade of experience across diverse environments, I’m always looking for gear that performs as advertised and withstands the rigors of real-world application. This particular model from Carlson’s caught my eye due to its specific constriction for turkey hunting and its extended design, promising enhanced performance. I was replacing a worn-out standard choke that just wasn’t giving me the tight patterns I needed at longer ranges. A quick glance at its construction and specifications suggested a well-built component, sparking immediate curiosity about its potential. My initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship, a reassuring sign for any piece of equipment designed for critical tasks. I had briefly considered a competitor’s offering, but Carlson’s reputation for turkey-specific chokes tipped the scales.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing ground for this choke tube was primarily the familiar terrain of late-season turkey woods and the controlled environment of a local shooting range. I fitted the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 into my Benelli M2, ensuring a snug, hand-tight fit before the final wrench turn. The extended design made it easy to gauge proper seating and removal, a welcome change from flush-mount tubes that can sometimes be finicky. My initial shots were taken at 30 and 40 yards, using a variety of popular 12-gauge turkey loads, including magnum buckshot and Hevi-Shot variants. The conditions varied from crisp autumn mornings to slightly damp afternoons, and the choke performed admirably without any noticeable degradation in pattern density or consistency. It threaded in smoothly and came out just as easily, with no signs of galling or cross-threading, which is a common frustration with lesser-quality chokes.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of two full turkey seasons, this Carlson’s choke tube became a permanent fixture on my primary hunting shotgun. It has endured countless hours in the field, from dawn patrols to dusk sits, experiencing everything from morning dew to occasional downpours and dusty dirt roads. Despite the exposure to the elements and the repeated firing of heavy loads, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 has shown remarkable resilience. I haven’t observed any cracks, excessive wear on the internal constriction, or any degradation in its patterning capabilities. Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a bore snake and a light application of lubricant after each outing keeps it in optimal condition. Compared to some generic chokes I’ve used in the past, which often required frequent cleaning to maintain performance, this extended turkey model has proven significantly more robust and reliable.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 is engineered with specific turkey hunting performance in mind. It is designed for Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge shotguns, ensuring a precise fit. The key specification is its .675 diameter, a constriction optimized for tight, deadly patterns at typical turkey engagement distances. Manufactured from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel, it promises excellent durability and resistance to corrosion and wear. The choke tube extends approximately 1″ from the end of the barrel, providing a more positive grip for installation and removal, and also influencing the shot column’s release. Its matte blue finish offers a non-reflective surface, crucial for maintaining stealth in the field. The internal design features a 1.050″ parallel section, a crucial element that Carlson’s claims helps produce optimal patterns. It’s important to note that this choke is not for use with steel shot, a vital safety and performance consideration.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this choke tube is to constrict the shot pattern for maximum effectiveness on turkeys, and it excels at this task. When paired with quality turkey loads, it consistently delivers incredibly dense patterns at ranges exceeding 40 yards. The .675 constriction strikes a perfect balance, tightening the pattern enough for lethal headshots without excessively blowing the pattern at closer ranges. I’ve experienced significantly fewer crippled birds since switching to this choke, a direct testament to its ability to keep shot string tight. Its performance is notably superior to standard improved cylinder or modified chokes when hunting turkeys, providing the confidence needed for those longer shots that often present themselves.

Design & Ergonomics

The extended design of this Carlson’s choke offers significant ergonomic advantages. The 1-inch extension makes it incredibly easy to grip for installation and removal, even with gloved hands. This is a welcome feature when you need to quickly swap chokes or perform field maintenance. The matte blue finish is practical, reducing glare that could alert wary gobblers. The overall build quality feels robust; the 17-4 stainless steel construction gives it a reassuring heft and perceived durability. There’s no play or wobble when properly installed, indicating precise manufacturing tolerances.

Durability & Maintenance

Built from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel, this choke tube is designed for longevity. I have yet to see any signs of cracking or deformation, even after firing numerous rounds of magnum turkey loads. The resistance to rust and corrosion is also evident; after exposure to rain and humidity, a simple wipe-down is all it takes to keep it looking and performing like new. Cleaning is as simple as any other choke tube, requiring a bore brush and solvent for any lead or plastic fouling. The extended design also makes cleaning the internal threads easier.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 comes as a single unit. There are no additional accessories included, which is standard for choke tubes. However, Carlson’s does offer a range of other choke tube types and constrictions for various shotgun models and hunting applications, allowing for extensive customization based on individual needs and firearm platforms. While this particular model is specific to Benelli Crio Plus barrels, Carlson’s has a broad lineup that caters to most major shotgun manufacturers.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675?

This choke tube is an absolute must-have for any serious turkey hunter using a compatible Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge shotgun. If you value tight patterns, consistent performance at longer distances, and a choke tube built to last, this model will not disappoint. It is ideal for hunters who frequently take shots over 40 yards and want to maximize their effectiveness. Those who primarily hunt with lead or bismuth turkey loads will find this to be an outstanding performer.

Conversely, if you frequently use steel shot for waterfowl or other applications, or if you own a shotgun with a different choke tube system, this specific model would not be suitable. Shooters looking for an all-purpose choke might want to consider a different option from Carlson’s vast selection. For those who do opt for this choke, investing in a good quality shotgun cleaning kit and a protective choke tube case would be beneficial for long-term care.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Crio Plus Choke Tubes, 12 Gauge, Extended Turkey .675 is a purpose-built tool that delivers on its promise of superior turkey hunting performance. Its precise .675 diameter constriction, coupled with the quality 17-4 stainless steel construction and thoughtful extended design, makes it a standout product in its category. The reliability and consistency it offers have undoubtedly improved my hunting success rate, providing the confidence needed for critical shots. At its price point, the value offered in terms of enhanced patterning and durability is exceptional. I wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube to any Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge owner who is serious about turkey hunting. It’s a smart investment that will undoubtedly elevate your effectiveness in the field.