Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full Review

Let’s Review the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full

As someone who’s spent over a decade meticulously evaluating gear across a spectrum of demanding environments – from the dust of the workshop to the precision of the lab and the unpredictable nature of the field – I approach each piece of equipment with a critical, yet practical, eye. My recent acquisition, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full, was born out of a specific need on the sporting clays course. My trusty Beretta 20-gauge, which has seen countless rounds, was due for a performance enhancement, and I was seeking a choke that would consistently deliver tighter patterns for those longer shots on demanding targets.

The stock choke, while adequate, was proving to be a limitation on certain stations, particularly those requiring precise breaks at greater distances. I considered a few options, including some higher-end custom chokes and offerings from other well-known manufacturers, but the reputation of Carlson’s Choke Tubes for offering reliable performance at a reasonable price point ultimately steered me towards this particular model. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction felt robust, and the black finish was uniform and well-applied, giving it a professional, no-nonsense look. There was an immediate sense of quiet satisfaction; this felt like a component built for purpose.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full to the Test

My testing grounds for this choke tube were exclusively the sporting clays course, specifically over a series of weekend shoots and practice sessions. I wanted to push it across various target presentations – fast incomers, angling crossers, and those notoriously frustrating high outgoing clays that demand a precise shot. The conditions varied from crisp autumn mornings with clear skies to slightly damp, overcast afternoons, exposing the choke tube to a range of typical outdoor shooting environments.

First Use Experience

The installation was, as expected, straightforward. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full threaded smoothly into my Beretta’s Optima HP barrel. There was no grittiness or resistance, which immediately instilled confidence. My first rounds were spent on familiar stations, focusing on how the patterns felt and how the gun reacted.

The most immediate observation was the consistency of the breaks. Targets that previously felt like a bit of a reach now dissolved with authority. The Extra Full constriction delivered noticeably tighter patterns, allowing for more forgiving sight alignment on those critical shots. There were no unexpected flyers or erratic performance, just predictable, dense patterns.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and well over 500 rounds through this choke, its performance has remained exceptionally consistent. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel has shown no signs of wear or corrosion, even after being exposed to light dew on the fields and occasional rain during transit between stations. Cleaning is as simple as any other choke tube: a quick wipe-down with a bore snake after each outing is sufficient to keep it in prime condition.

Compared to other choke tubes I’ve used in the past, this Carlson’s offering holds its own. It doesn’t necessarily reinvent the wheel, but it reliably performs its intended function with a level of precision that often commands a higher price. I haven’t experienced any loosening of the choke tube, nor have I noticed any degradation in pattern quality, which speaks volumes about its build and threading. It’s become a fixture in my shotgun without any need for constant re-tightening or worry.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full is a specialized piece of equipment designed for one purpose: to tighten shot patterns significantly. Its construction and design are focused on delivering that tight constriction reliably and durably.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Carlson’s Choke Tubes
  This is a reputable name in the aftermarket choke tube industry, known for quality and value.
• Color: Black
  The black finish provides a non-reflective surface, which is aesthetically pleasing and functionally beneficial in not drawing unwanted attention.
• Fabric/Material: 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel
  This is a high-grade stainless steel alloy known for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. The heat treatment further enhances its toughness, making it ideal for the stresses of firing shots.
• Gauge: 20
  Specifically designed for 20-gauge shotguns.
• Choke Tube System: Beretta Optima HP
  Crucially, this choke is designed to fit Beretta shotguns utilizing the Optima HP (High Performance) interchangeable choke tube system. Ensuring compatibility is paramount for proper fit and function.
• Choke Type: Extra Full
  This is the most restrictive choke diameter offered in standard sizes. An Extra Full choke significantly constricts the shotgun bore, producing the tightest possible shot pattern.
• Diameter: 0.59 in
  This measurement represents the internal diameter of the choke tube’s constriction. For a 20-gauge shotgun, this diameter equates to a very tight constriction, designed for maximum pattern density at longer ranges.
• Gun Make: Beretta
  Confirms its intended fitment for Beretta firearms.
• Quantity: 1
  The product is sold as a single choke tube.
• Additional Features: Non-Ported
  Unlike some chokes designed to reduce recoil or muzzle climb, this model is non-ported. This means it has a smooth interior without any gas-venting holes, focusing solely on pattern constriction.
• Included Accessories: Choke Wrench
  A simple, but essential, choke wrench is included, making installation and removal easy straight out of the box.
• Country of Origin: USA
  Manufactured in the United States, often a marker of quality control and craftsmanship.

These specifications collectively point to a choke tube built for serious shotgunners who demand tight patterns. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel ensures longevity and resistance to the elements, while the Extra Full constriction is specifically for those aiming at distant targets where maximum pattern density is crucial. The Beretta Optima HP system ensures a secure and precise fit, and the non-ported design keeps the focus squarely on pattern tightening.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full is to produce tight, consistent shot patterns at longer ranges. It excels at this. On the sporting clays course, this choke tube consistently delivered dense patterns on targets that would have been difficult with less restrictive chokes.

The strengths lie in its absolute consistency. Every shot felt like it was sending the same payload downrange with the same degree of constriction. This predictability is invaluable when you’re trying to make split-second decisions on the course. Its main limitation, inherent to its design, is its specialization. This Extra Full choke is not intended for close-range targets; using it on skeet or very close incomers would likely result in missed targets due to excessively tight patterns.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is functional and robust. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel gives it a solid feel, and the black finish is understated and professional. It threads in smoothly and secures firmly.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be installed and left alone until a change is needed. The included choke wrench makes manipulation straightforward. There’s no particular learning curve; it’s a drop-in component. The knurling at the exterior end provides just enough grip for hand-tightening before the wrench is used for final snugging.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction, durability is a major strong point. I anticipate this choke tube will last for many years, even with heavy use. Its resistance to corrosion means minimal maintenance is required.

A simple bore snake run through the barrel and choke after each shooting session is typically all that’s needed. I’ve not encountered any issues like galling or excessive carbon buildup that requires aggressive cleaning. Potential concerns for any choke tube would be cross-threading or damage from dropping it, but the robust material here inspires confidence.

Accessories and Customization Options

The only accessory included is a basic choke wrench, which is perfectly adequate for its intended purpose. As for customization, this choke tube is designed to fit the Beretta Optima HP system, so it’s not directly customizable in terms of interchangeable parts on the choke itself.

However, the value lies in its ability to be swapped out for other Carlson’s Choke Tubes or any other Beretta Optima HP compatible choke tube. This allows shooters to tailor their shotgun’s performance to different shooting disciplines or specific target presentations simply by changing tubes. For instance, if I were transitioning to trap shooting, I might swap this for a more open choke.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for competitive sporting clays shooters who frequently encounter longer-range targets and require the tightest possible patterns. It is also ideal for hunters who pursue game that presents itself at significant distances, where a dense pattern is crucial for a clean harvest.

Anyone looking for a reliable, durable choke tube specifically for their Beretta Optima HP 20-gauge shotgun that emphasizes maximum pattern tightening should consider this model. Those who primarily shoot skeet, driven birds at very close range, or waterfowl in tight cover might find this Extra Full choke too restrictive. For those users, exploring more open chokes from Carlson’s Choke Tubes or other brands would be a better fit. If you frequently shoot at distances beyond 40 yards, this choke is worth serious consideration.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta Optima HP 20ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full delivers precisely what it promises: exceptionally tight patterns from a durable, well-made choke tube. For the price point, the value is undeniable. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction ensures it will be a long-lasting addition to your shotgun’s arsenal, and its consistent performance on the sporting clays course has been a genuine confidence booster.

It’s not a do-it-all choke; its extreme constriction means it has a specific role. However, for shooters who need that extra edge at longer distances on their Beretta Optima HP 20-gauge, this model is a highly recommended investment. It offers a significant performance upgrade without breaking the bank, making it a smart choice for the discerning shooter focused on long-range accuracy.