Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full Review

Is the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full Right for You?

For years, I’ve been on the hunt for that perfect balance between consistent performance and robust construction in shotgun chokes. My Browning 20-gauge, a reliable workhorse on the sporting clays course, has always been a platform where the right choke can make a noticeable difference. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full caught my eye as a potential upgrade for tighter patterns at longer distances, specifically for those challenging station setups. I was looking for something that would deliver predictable results without the fuss of constant adjustments or excessive recoil management.

My search for this particular choke began after a rather frustrating day on the course. Several longer targets felt “just out of reach,” leading me to question if my current choke was providing the focused pattern I needed. While I’ve experimented with other brands and constriction types, the “Extra Full” designation on this Carlson’s model, coupled with its specific fitment for the Browning Invector Plus system, presented a compelling option. I considered more budget-friendly generic options but decided against them, prioritizing a known system for a predictable outcome.

My first impression upon unboxing was one of quiet competence. The choke tube felt solid in hand, with a pleasingly smooth finish and precise threading that spoke to good manufacturing tolerances. There was a sense of practical refinement rather than flashy aesthetics, which is exactly what I look for in gear that’s meant to perform under pressure. It felt like a tool ready for immediate deployment.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full to the Test

My testing regimen for this Carlson’s choke was centered squarely on the sporting clays course, its intended proving ground. I swapped it into my Browning 20-gauge over/under, specifically for stations that presented longer crossers and driven targets where pattern density at range is paramount. The initial installation was straightforward; the threading engaged smoothly, and the choke seated perfectly within the barrel.

First Use Experience

The first few shots with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full were on the practice station, focusing on a patterned paper target. The results were immediately apparent – a tighter, more consistent core to the shot cloud compared to my previous choke. On the course itself, the difference was noticeable on longer presentations. Targets that previously felt like a stretch now broke cleanly and decisively.

The choke performed admirably under repeated firing, with no discernible change in performance throughout a full round of 100 targets. I didn’t encounter any issues with heat buildup affecting pattern consistency, nor did I experience excessive felt recoil, which can sometimes be a concern with tighter chokes. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full proved exceptionally easy to use; it’s a “set it and forget it” component that seamlessly integrated into my shooting rhythm.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of targets downrange, this choke tube continues to impress. It has become my go-to for longer shots on the course, reliably delivering the focused patterns I’ve come to expect. I’ve even taken it out for some informal field shooting, where its tight constriction proved useful for flushing birds at a distance.

There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the choke itself; the 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction appears to be holding up exceptionally well against lead and bismuth shot. Cleaning is as simple as it was on day one – a quick brush and wipe down after each session keeps it in pristine condition. Compared to some other chokes I’ve used that sometimes show minor inconsistencies after extended use, this Carlson’s model remains remarkably consistent. It consistently outperforms the more basic, unbranded chokes that often come standard with shotguns.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full

Specifications

This choke tube boasts some key specifications that directly translate to its performance. Constructed from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, it offers superior strength and corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity even with heavy use. The 20-gauge specification means it’s designed for 20-gauge shotguns utilizing the Browning Invector Plus (+) choke tube system.

The Extra Full designation indicates a very tight constriction, with a specified diameter of 0.595 in. This is designed to throw a very dense pattern at longer ranges, making it ideal for specific sporting clays scenarios or situations where precise shot placement is critical. The black finish is both aesthetic and functional, reducing glare.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full is to constrict the shot pattern. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. It consistently delivers noticeably tighter patterns than standard or more open chokes, translating directly into more broken targets at longer distances.

Its strength lies in its predictability; the pattern density is reliable shot after shot. The only slight weakness, inherent to its Extra Full constriction, is that it can be too tight for closer targets, potentially resulting in misses if not accounted for. For its intended purpose on the sporting clays course, however, it exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is functional and robust. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel material feels substantial and well-finished. The black coating is even and durable, resisting scuffs and scratches from handling and cleaning.

Ergonomically, it’s a simple component. Once installed, its presence is felt more in the gun’s balance than in any direct interaction. The non-ported design means it’s a straightforward tube without any added complexity or potential for debris to accumulate in ports.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, this choke tube is built for the long haul. I anticipate it will last for many years of regular use without issue.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick clean with a solvent and a bronze brush after shooting is all that’s required. The smooth interior surface resists fouling effectively. There are no obvious points of failure; it’s a solid piece of metal designed for extreme durability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full comes with a choke wrench included. This is a practical inclusion that makes installation and removal straightforward, especially for users who don’t have specialized tools.

While this specific model is an “Extra Full” constriction, Carlson’s offers a wide range of other constrictions within the Browning Invector Plus system. This allows for customization based on your specific shooting discipline and firearm.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full?

This choke tube is ideally suited for sporting clays shooters who frequently encounter longer-range targets and desire a tighter, more consistent pattern. It’s also a great option for skeet shooters who might use it for specific stations requiring extended reach or for hunters targeting larger game at moderate to longer distances where pattern density is key. Anyone with a Browning shotgun that utilizes the Invector Plus system and is seeking to improve their long-range performance will find this a valuable addition.

Individuals who primarily shoot closer targets, such as true doubles in skeet or very close flushing game, might find this Extra Full choke too restrictive. For them, a more open constriction like Improved Cylinder or Modified would be more appropriate. I recommend pairing this choke with a good quality cleaning kit and perhaps a slip-on recoil pad if you find extended sessions with tighter chokes increase felt recoil.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full has proven itself to be a high-quality, performance-driven component. Its construction from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel speaks to its durability, and its ability to throw exceptionally tight patterns at distance is undeniable. For its price point of $52.49, it offers significant value, delivering the kind of consistent performance that can directly impact success on the sporting clays course or in the field.

I would absolutely recommend this choke tube to any Browning Invector Plus 20-gauge shotgun owner looking to enhance their long-range shooting capabilities. It’s a sensible, reliable upgrade that performs exactly as advertised. If you’re looking to tighten up your patterns and gain that extra edge on longer presentations, this choke tube is a smart investment.