Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified Review

Exploring the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified: My Review

As someone who lives and breathes gear, spending over a decade putting everything from lab equipment to outdoor essentials through their paces, I understand the value of precision and reliability. When the need arose for a specific choke tube to enhance my 20-gauge Benelli’s performance on the sporting clay course, my search led me to the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified. This wasn’t a casual upgrade; it was a quest for that fractional edge in pattern density and consistency that can make the difference between a good day and a great one. My previous choke, while serviceable, felt a bit generic, lacking the refined touch needed for competitive shooting.

My first impression upon unboxing was one of understated quality. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes unit felt solid, its 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction promising durability. It was a welcome contrast to some lighter, flimsier options I’d encountered. I briefly considered a few other brands, but the specific compatibility with the Benelli Crio Plus system and Carlson’s reputation for sporting clay chokes swayed me. There was an immediate sense of quiet confidence – this looked like a tool designed for purpose, and I was eager to see if it performed as well as it felt.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with this choke tube was at my local sporting clays range, on a rather brisk and dry late autumn afternoon. I fitted it into my Benelli Crio Plus 20-gauge shotgun, and the installation was smooth, a testament to its precise manufacturing. The improved modified constriction felt immediately promising for the varied presentations of clay targets, from close-range reveals to more distant outgoing birds.

During the course of two full rounds, I experienced consistent performance across different target speeds and angles. The weather remained clear, so I didn’t push its limits in terms of extreme moisture or dust, but the general feel of improved pattern control was palpable. It was remarkably intuitive; there was no fiddling or adjustment needed beyond standard sight alignment.

The only minor quirk was the very slight increase in perceived recoil compared to my old, more open choke, which is to be expected with a tighter constriction. However, this was easily managed and a worthwhile trade-off for the enhanced pattern performance. It felt like the shotgun was more “together,” delivering a more focused shot.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months, this Carlson’s Choke Tubes model has become my go-to for sporting clays. I’ve used it through various conditions, including a damp morning shoot and a very dusty afternoon session. It has consistently held up, with no signs of degradation or performance drop.

The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction has proven its worth, showing only the most superficial cosmetic marks after numerous rounds and cleaning sessions. It cleans up easily with a standard bore snake and a light application of gun oil, requiring no special tools or complex maintenance routines. Compared to a less expensive, generic choke I used years ago, which began to show porting wear prematurely, this unit feels built to last.

Its reliability has been excellent; I haven’t experienced any misfires or inconsistent patterns even after repeated cycling of ammunition and numerous target engagements. This choke tube has solidified its place as a dependable component in my shooting setup, performing exactly as intended, round after round.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified is a thoughtfully engineered piece of equipment. It is designed specifically for the Benelli Crio Plus choke tube system, ensuring a perfect fit and seamless integration with compatible Benelli shotguns. Constructed from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, this material is renowned for its superior strength and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for the rigors of shooting.

The choke features an Improved Modified constriction, a versatile choice for sporting clays that offers a good balance between pattern density and effective range. Its 0.6 inch diameter is precisely machined for optimal shot pellet guidance. The choke is non-ported, which many shooters prefer for a cleaner aesthetic and to avoid the potential for debris ingress into ports.

A significant practical specification is the included Choke Wrench, a small but crucial accessory that simplifies installation and removal, especially in the field or at the range. The black finish provides a subtle, professional look. As a single unit, it offers focused performance without the bulk of multi-choke sets for specific situations.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role as a sporting clay choke, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified excels. The Improved Modified constriction delivers tight, consistent patterns that are crucial for breaking clay targets at typical sporting clay distances. I’ve observed a noticeable improvement in the density and uniformity of my shot strings, leading to more consistent target breaks.

Its strength lies in this reliable pattern performance; it reliably tightens the shot spread from the barrel. One of its few minor weaknesses might be its specialized nature; while excellent for sporting clays, it might be too tight for extremely close-quarters bird flushing or certain upland hunting scenarios where a more open choke would be preferred. However, for its intended purpose, it meets and often exceeds expectations.

The functionality is straightforward: screw it in, load, and shoot. There’s no complex mechanism or adjustment to worry about, just pure, focused performance. This simplicity is a significant advantage when every second counts.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this choke tube is classic and functional, prioritizing performance over ornamentation. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel gives it a substantial, well-made feel. Its black finish is understated and resistant to scratches from typical handling and tool use.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be installed and removed with ease. The subtle knurling on the exterior provides just enough grip for hand-tightening, and the provided Choke Wrench ensures a secure fit without over-torquing. There are no sharp edges or awkward protrusions.

The non-ported design contributes to its clean lines and makes cleaning straightforward. It integrates seamlessly into the barrel, maintaining the shotgun’s balance and handling characteristics. It feels like an extension of the firearm, not an add-on.

Durability & Maintenance

Built from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, this choke tube is engineered for long-term durability. Under typical sporting clay usage—which involves frequent shooting, cleaning, and reinstallation—I anticipate many years of reliable service. There are no readily apparent points of failure.

Maintenance is simple and requires no specialized equipment beyond a standard bore brush, cleaning solvent, and a light lubricant. A quick clean after each range session prevents carbon buildup, ensuring continued optimal performance. I have not encountered any issues like thread stripping or internal erosion, even after hundreds of rounds.

Potential concerns are minimal, perhaps limited to ensuring the threads are kept clean and lightly oiled to prevent galling, which is good practice for any screw-in choke system. The USA origin is also a positive indicator of quality control and manufacturing standards.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified comes with one key accessory: a Choke Wrench. This tool is essential for proper installation and removal, particularly for ensuring the choke is securely seated without damaging the threads. It’s a practical inclusion that avoids the need for shooters to purchase a separate tool.

Beyond the included wrench, this choke tube is designed for specific compatibility with the Benelli Crio Plus system. This means it doesn’t offer broad customization in terms of interchangeable choke tubes from other manufacturers, but rather guarantees perfect fitment within its designated system. Its specialization is its strength, ensuring optimal performance for its intended application.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified?

This choke tube is an ideal choice for any Benelli Crio Plus 20-gauge shotgun owner who actively participates in sporting clays. If you’re looking to refine your shotgun’s performance on the course, increase your target break percentage, and value a durable, well-made component, this is for you. It’s perfect for competitive shooters and serious hobbyists seeking that extra edge.

Individuals who own Benelli shotguns with different choke tube systems (e.g., Benelli Mobile, Optima) should look elsewhere, as this model is not cross-compatible. Similarly, if your primary use is very close-range bird hunting where a more open choke is critical, this specific constriction might not be the best fit.

For optimal use, ensure you have a solid cleaning kit for your shotgun. While the included wrench is great, a torque wrench specifically for chokes can be a worthwhile investment for those who want to ensure precise pressure settings over time.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified is a precisely engineered choke tube that delivers on its promise of enhanced performance for sporting clays. Its robust 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction ensures longevity, while the Improved Modified constriction provides the tight, consistent patterns necessary for breaking clay targets reliably. The specific fitment for Benelli Crio Plus systems guarantees seamless integration.

At $58.49, the value proposition is strong for its target audience. You’re investing in a quality upgrade that directly contributes to shooting performance, backed by a reputable manufacturer known for its focus on shotgun accessories. It’s not just a piece of metal; it’s a tool designed to improve your experience and results on the clay course.

I wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube to any Benelli Crio Plus 20-gauge owner dedicated to sporting clays. If you’re seeking a dependable, high-performing choke that offers excellent pattern control and durability, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Modified is a purchase you won’t regret. It’s a small component that makes a significant difference in how your shotgun performs.