Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: Review

Reviewing the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: Beyond Marketing

For years, I’ve relied on dependable equipment to get the job done, whether it’s calibrating delicate instruments in a lab or ensuring my gear performs when it matters most in the field. When it came to optimizing the pattern density and effective range of my Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag, finding the right choke tubes was crucial. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: promised a significant upgrade, specifically designed for modern waterfowl loads. My previous experience with standard chokes had left me wanting more consistency at longer distances, prompting a search for a specialized solution.

Upon receiving this two-pack, my initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The weight and feel of the steel were reassuring, and the titanium coating suggested durability. Compared to the generic choke that came with my shotgun or the less specialized aftermarket options I’d seen, these units felt like a tangible step up in quality. There was an immediate sense of relief, a feeling that I might finally have found the solution to my patterning woes.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: to my usual private range, focusing on shotgun patterning. The testing involved firing various waterfowl loads at 30, 40, and 50 yards, using both the Mid-Range (MR) and Long-Range (LR) tubes. I specifically chose these distances to stress-test the claimed capabilities of each choke. The installation was straightforward; they threaded in smoothly, and the included choke wrench made the process quick and easy.

The MR tube provided excellent patterns at 30 and 40 yards, delivering tighter, more consistent shot strings than I’d achieved before. Switching to the LR tube at 50 yards revealed its true strength, maintaining a far denser and more uniform pattern than any standard choke I had previously used. There were no surprising malfunctions or issues during the initial testing, just a noticeable improvement in shot dispersal.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of a duck season, these choke tubes saw heavy use. From early morning hunts in damp conditions to dusty field sessions, they held up remarkably well. The titanium coating resisted minor scrapes and scuffs, and more importantly, the internal constriction remained consistent, meaning no degradation in performance.

Maintenance was minimal; a quick wipe down after each outing and an occasional cleaning with a bore snake kept them in pristine condition. Compared to some aluminum chokes that can seize up or steel chokes that can develop rust, these units proved exceptionally durable. I haven’t noticed any loss in patterning efficiency, even after hundreds of rounds fired through them.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR:

Specifications

This pack contains two choke tubes specifically designed for Mossberg 835 and 935 12-gauge shotguns. The manufacturer, Carlson’s Choke Tubes, has constructed these from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel and applied a titanium coating. This combination offers superior strength and corrosion resistance, crucial for longevity and consistent performance in harsh environments.

The two chokes provided are designated as Mid Range (MR) and Long Range (LR). The MR choke has a constriction diameter of 0.727 inches, ideal for extending effective range without sacrificing pattern density at moderate distances. The LR choke features a tighter constriction of 0.743 inches, designed to deliver maximum pattern density and reach at extended ranges, particularly with modern ammunition.

Both chokes are non-ported, which can contribute to a slightly quieter shooting experience and less gas blow-back compared to ported designs. The pack also includes a choke wrench, a practical accessory that simplifies installation and removal. Being manufactured in the USA, these tubes meet high standards of quality control and material integrity.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of these choke tubes is to control the shot pattern delivered by a shotgun. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: excel in this regard, offering distinct advantages for different shooting scenarios. The MR tube consistently produced dense, even patterns at ranges up to 40 yards, ensuring clean kills on ducks and geese.

The LR tube truly shines at longer distances, extending the effective range of my shotgun noticeably. Patterns remained tight and consistent at 50 yards and beyond, providing confidence when a slightly further shot presented itself. The key strength here is the predictability of the patterns; with both chokes, I experienced far fewer “blown” patterns or uneven shot distribution.

However, it’s important to note that these are specialized chokes for specific loads, primarily designed for modern waterfowl ammunition like Black Cloud. While they perform exceptionally well with those loads, using older or different types of shot might yield different results. Their performance is outstanding within their intended application.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these chokes is focused on function and durability. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction provides a robust core, while the titanium coating not only adds a visually appealing, titanium finish but also contributes to increased hardness and corrosion resistance. This dual-material approach suggests a product built to withstand the rigors of field use.

Ergonomically, the chokes are designed for straightforward installation and removal. The knurled end, while subtle, offers sufficient grip for tightening and loosening, especially when combined with the included wrench. The smooth internal finish of the choke bore minimizes friction, allowing shot pellets to exit cleanly and uniformly, which is a critical aspect of pattern performance.

There’s no complex setup or adjustment required; once installed, they simply work. This lack of intricate design elements means fewer potential failure points.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a significant selling point for these chokes. The use of 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel inherently provides excellent strength and resistance to deformation. Combined with the titanium coating, which is notoriously hard and wear-resistant, these tubes are built to last.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A basic cleaning after each use, ensuring no lead or powder residue is left to accumulate internally, is sufficient. The titanium finish makes them resistant to rust and corrosion, meaning they can be stored without excessive concern for degradation.

I haven’t encountered any signs of premature wear, such as cracks, warping, or internal damage, even after frequent use in various weather conditions. Their robust construction suggests they will remain reliable for many seasons to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: comes with a practical choke wrench. This is a thoughtful inclusion that ensures users have the necessary tool for immediate installation.

Beyond the included wrench, these chokes do not offer further customization in terms of interchangeable parts like adjustable chokes. However, their strength lies in the two distinct, pre-set constrictions—MR and LR—which are tailored for specific range requirements. This is less about user customization and more about providing pre-optimized options for different shooting distances.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR:

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR:?

These choke tubes are an excellent investment for waterfowl hunters who own a Mossberg 835 or 935 shotgun and are looking to maximize their effectiveness in the field. Anyone who frequently shoots at medium to longer ranges and wants tighter, more consistent patterns will benefit significantly from this set. If you are specifically using modern loads like Black Cloud or similar high-performance waterfowl ammunition, these tubes are designed to unlock their full potential.

Conversely, if you are a casual shooter who rarely ventures beyond 30 yards, or if you primarily use older birdshot loads for upland game, the specialized nature and cost of this pack might not be necessary. Those seeking a single, all-purpose choke tube or who prefer adjustable chokes might find other options more suitable. For optimal performance, pairing these with high-quality waterfowl ammunition is strongly recommended; using cheaper or inconsistent loads may not showcase their full capabilities.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR:

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Mossberg 835/935 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: represents a substantial upgrade for any Mossberg 835 or 935 owner serious about improving their shotgun’s performance, particularly in waterfowl hunting scenarios. The blend of robust construction, precise engineering, and effective patterning for modern ammunition makes them a standout choice. The value proposition, while higher than basic options, is certainly justified by the enhanced accuracy, consistency, and durability these tubes provide. I would wholeheartedly recommend this pack to any serious duck or goose hunter looking to extend their effective range and ensure cleaner harvests.