Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube Review

The Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube and What It Taught Me

For anyone who owns a Blaser shotgun and pushes its capabilities, the quest for the perfect choke tube is a continuous one. The Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube entered my workshop and range bag with a reputation for durability and a subtle, yet significant, aesthetic upgrade. My previous choke tube, a standard model that had seen years of service, began to show its age, prompting a search for something more robust and reliable for my Blaser. This led me to explore options that promised enhanced performance and longevity.

Upon first inspection, this Briley choke tube felt substantial, hinting at the robust build quality expected from the manufacturer. The black oxide finish not only looked sharp against the steel but also suggested increased resistance to the elements. I considered a few other aftermarket options, but Briley’s established reputation in high-performance shotgun components ultimately tipped the scales. My initial impression was one of quiet confidence; this was not just a replacement part, but an upgrade.

Real-World Testing: Putting Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube was on a brisk autumn day at the local sporting clays range. I tested it across several stations, focusing on different target presentations, from fast incomers to longer crossers. The initial installation was a smooth process, threading in perfectly without any signs of cross-threading or excessive force.

In terms of performance, the choke delivered consistent patterns, seeming to tighten the shot string slightly more than my previous tube. The extended design made it marginally easier to grip and manipulate when switching chokes between shots. I encountered no significant issues, though the black oxide finish did show a few very faint scuffs after a couple of hours of continuous use, which is to be expected with any metal component under stress.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, from clay pigeons to occasional field excursions, the Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube has proven itself to be a reliable performer. It has been exposed to dust, minor moisture, and the general wear and tear of being handled and swapped out regularly. The choke tube has held up remarkably well, showing no degradation in its patterning performance.

Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a silicone cloth after each use keeps the black oxide finish looking its best. Compared to some budget choke tubes I’ve used in the past, which sometimes develop loose threads or inconsistent patterns, this Briley unit feels solid and dependable. There’s been no loosening, no loss of constriction, and the finish, while not pristine, still looks professional.

Breaking Down the Features of Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube

Specifications

The Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube is designed specifically for Blaser shotguns and is manufactured from high-quality steel. It features a durable black oxide finish, which offers a sleek aesthetic and a degree of corrosion resistance. This particular model is available in a 12 gauge, with choke constrictions varying based on your specific order and needs, a point Briley representatives are happy to help you clarify.

The extended design, typically protruding slightly beyond the barrel, aids in easier gripping and faster choke changes. This feature is invaluable when you need to adapt to different shooting scenarios quickly. The black oxide finish is not just for looks; it provides a harder surface that can withstand more abrasion than standard bluing.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any choke tube is to control the pattern of shot. In this regard, the Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube performs admirably, delivering tight and consistent patterns that meet or exceed expectations for its intended constriction. The extended design doesn’t appear to negatively impact shot velocity or pattern integrity.

Its main strength lies in its reliable consistency and the ease of use provided by the extended length. While it doesn’t introduce revolutionary technology, it excels at its core task: delivering predictable shot distribution. I haven’t encountered any significant weaknesses, though it’s crucial to remember that these tubes are designed for lead shot only, as stated by the manufacturer.

Design & Ergonomics

Briley has opted for a clean, functional design with this choke tube. The black oxide finish provides a matte, non-reflective surface that is pleasing to the eye and practical for shooting environments. The knurled portion at the end of the tube offers a secure grip, even with gloved hands or when dealing with a slightly sticky installation.

The fit and finish are excellent, with precise threading that ensures it seats perfectly into the Blaser barrel. There’s no wobble or looseness once installed, which contributes to the feeling of quality and reliability. The extended profile is subtle enough not to be cumbersome but prominent enough to offer a distinct advantage in handling.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the materials used, this Briley choke tube is built for longevity. The hardened steel construction combined with the black oxide finish suggests it can withstand regular use and cleaning without significant wear. I anticipate it will last for many years, provided it’s used with appropriate ammunition.

Cleaning is as simple as wiping down after each use and perhaps a light application of oil every few months. There are no complex parts to maintain, making it a low-hassle component. The most important aspect of care is adhering to the manufacturer’s recommendation of using it only with lead shot to prevent damage to the internal constrictions or the finish itself.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube is a standalone component, and as such, it doesn’t come with a suite of accessories. However, its primary customization is in the selection of choke constriction – be it improved cylinder, modified, full, or others tailored to your specific shooting needs.

Briley offers a wide range of these constrictions, allowing you to fine-tune your shotgun’s performance. Compatibility is, of course, limited to Blaser shotguns, emphasizing its specialized design. You might consider purchasing a small choke tube wrench if you plan on frequent changes, though the extended design often makes this unnecessary.

Pros and Cons of Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube

Who Should Buy Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for Blaser shotgun owners who demand reliability and enhanced usability. If you frequently switch chokes or want a more durable option than standard internal tubes, this is a worthwhile upgrade. It’s ideal for sporting clays shooters, hunters who need to adapt to varying distances, and anyone who appreciates quality gun components.

Those who primarily use non-toxic alternatives like steel shot should look elsewhere, as this particular model is not recommended for such ammunition. If you are on a very tight budget, more basic options exist, but they will likely lack the durability and ergonomic benefits of this Briley product. A good quality cleaning kit and perhaps a soft choke tube pouch would complement this purchase nicely.

Conclusion on Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube

The Briley Blaser Extended Black Oxide Choke Tube stands as a testament to thoughtful engineering and quality manufacturing. It successfully blends enhanced functionality with a refined aesthetic, providing tangible benefits for the discerning Blaser owner. The black oxide finish is not merely cosmetic; it contributes to the tube’s resilience in the field.

At $59.95, it offers solid value for a premium choke tube from a renowned manufacturer. While the limitation to lead shot is a factor to consider, for its intended use, it performs exceptionally well. I would confidently recommend this choke tube to any Blaser shotgun owner seeking an upgrade in durability, ease of use, and consistent performance, especially if they primarily use lead ammunition. It’s a smart investment for anyone who values precision and reliability in their shooting equipment.