Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge Review

The Final Word on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge

For any serious shooter looking to wring the most out of their 28-gauge Benelli shotgun, especially those keen on refining their patterns for sporting clays or upland hunting, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge present themselves as a compelling upgrade. Manufactured by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, these tubes are crafted from robust 17-4 stainless steel, engineered with a longer parallel section to promote denser, more consistent shot strings. My quest for better pattern performance led me to this product, as my existing choke tubes, while functional, weren’t delivering the uniformity I desired across various loads. I briefly considered some proprietary Benelli options, but the allure of the extended parallel section and Carlson’s reputation for broad compatibility made their offering stand out. The initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship, a reassuring weight, and a precisely machined finish that immediately suggested superior performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for these choke tubes was the local sporting clays range, specifically targeting stations that presented challenging presentations requiring precise shot placement at varying distances. I fitted the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge into my Benelli M2, which utilizes the Crio Plus system. The installation was straightforward; the knurled end provided excellent grip for hand-tightening, and a quick snug with the included wrench confirmed a secure fit. The laser-marked constriction on the end was a welcome touch for quick identification.

Throughout a full 100-target round, the tubes performed admirably. I experimented with various loads, including traditional lead birdshot and some heavier steel loads. The patterns were noticeably tighter and more uniform than with my previous flush-mount chokes. There were no surprising hiccups or unexpected behaviors; the operation was smooth and consistent across all presentations. Even after a few hours of shooting, the tubes remained firmly in place, a testament to their precise threading and fit.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and numerous trips to the range, along with some field use for quail hunting, the Carlson’s choke tubes have proven to be exceptionally reliable. They’ve endured the rigors of repeated shooting, exposure to light dust at the range, and the occasional damp morning in the field without any degradation in performance. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked cloth and a light application of gun oil are all that’s needed to maintain their pristine condition.

Compared to the stock chokes that came with my shotgun, these Carlson’s tubes offer a tangible improvement in pattern density and consistency. While other aftermarket brands exist, I haven’t found a compelling reason to look further. The durability is evident; there are no visible signs of stress, corrosion, or wear on the internal or external surfaces, which speaks volumes about the quality of the 17-4 stainless steel construction and manufacturing process.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge are meticulously engineered components designed to enhance shotgun performance. They are constructed from premium 17-4 stainless steel, a material renowned for its strength and corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity even under demanding conditions. A key design feature is the 25% larger parallel section within the choke tube. This extended parallel section is crucial as it gently guides the shot cup and pellets, resulting in significantly more consistent patterns compared to standard choke designs with shorter parallel sections.

Furthermore, each choke tube features a knurled end, which facilitates quick and effortless removal and installation, even with cold or gloved hands. The constriction is clearly laser-marked on the end of each tube, making it exceptionally easy to identify the specific choke constriction without needing to consult a manual or gauge. These tubes are designed for a Benelli Crio Plus choke tube system, ensuring a precise fit for compatible Benelli firearms. They are available in various constrictions, though the specific model reviewed here is often found as a sporting clay cylinder, providing a more open pattern ideal for specific shooting disciplines. These choke tubes are also non-ported, which can contribute to a slightly softer recoil impulse.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any choke tube is to shape the shot pattern, and the Carlson’s Sporting Clay tubes excel at this. The extended parallel section is not just a marketing buzzword; it demonstrably translates into tighter and more uniformly distributed patterns. I noticed a significant reduction in “fliers” or poorly formed clusters of shot, with pellets landing in a more cohesive cloud. This improved patterning directly enhances hit probability, especially at typical sporting clays distances or when engaging fast-moving upland game.

The versatility is another major functional advantage. The product description notes that they are compatible with a wide range of shotshells, including lead shot, steel shot, copperplated shot, nickel shot, Hevi-Shotshells, and buck shot. However, a crucial caveat is provided: steel shot larger than BB should not be used in any Sporting Clays Choke Tube tighter than Full Constriction. This is a vital safety and performance note to heed. While I haven’t pushed them to their absolute limits with the largest steel shot, the consistency observed with standard loads certainly suggests they perform as advertised within these guidelines.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge is both functional and practical. The 17-4 stainless steel offers a beautiful, durable finish that resists scratches and corrosion. The knurled end is a thoughtful ergonomic touch, providing a positive grip for installation and removal without requiring specialized tools beyond a standard choke wrench for final tightening. This makes switching constrictions in the field or at the range a quick and simple affair.

The laser-etched markings are crisp and easy to read, even in low-light conditions, which is a significant ergonomic improvement over older, etched markings that can wear down over time. The overall construction feels robust and precisely machined, indicating a high level of quality control from Carlson’s Choke Tubes. They feel substantial and well-made, giving the user confidence in their durability and fit.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended testing, the durability of these choke tubes appears to be excellent. The 17-4 stainless steel is inherently resistant to wear, and the precision machining minimizes potential stress points. I anticipate that with proper care, these tubes will last the lifetime of the shotgun they are fitted to. Maintenance is straightforward, involving routine cleaning after each use, especially when shooting steel or other harder shot types, to prevent any residue buildup that could affect performance.

The lifetime warranty offered by Carlson’s Choke Tubes further underscores their confidence in the product’s durability. This is a significant advantage for consumers, providing peace of mind against manufacturing defects or premature wear. I’ve experienced no issues with them loosening during firing, nor have I noticed any signs of galling or deformation, even when switching between different types of ammunition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge come with a choke wrench included, which is a practical and appreciated addition. This ensures that users have the necessary tool right out of the box to install and remove their new choke tube correctly. While the product itself is a single component, the true customization comes from the availability of different constrictions within Carlson’s Sporting Clay line for the Benelli Crio Plus system. Users can acquire multiple tubes (e.g., Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full) to tailor their shotgun’s performance to specific shooting disciplines or hunting scenarios.

This ability to select and swap different constrictions offers a high degree of customization for fine-tuning shot patterns. It allows a shooter to adapt their firearm effectively without needing multiple dedicated barrels or shotguns for different tasks. The compatibility with newer Benelli models that use the Crio Plus system is also a critical aspect, as it ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge?

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge are an excellent choice for competitive sporting clays shooters, avid upland hunters, and any Benelli 28-gauge shotgun owner who prioritizes refined pattern performance. If you are looking to consistently improve your shot-to-shot accuracy and understand the benefits of a more consistent shot string, these choke tubes will deliver. They are particularly beneficial for those using shotguns with the Benelli Crio Plus system who want to upgrade from standard flush-mount chokes.

However, individuals who primarily shoot very light loads or do not seek to optimize their patterns for distance might find these an unnecessary expense. Those who exclusively use ultra-tight constrictions with very large steel shot should carefully review the ammunition guidelines. For an enhanced shooting experience, consider pairing these tubes with high-quality ammunition known for consistent pellet size and uniformity.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 28 Gauge represent a significant upgrade for any shooter looking to maximize the performance of their 28-gauge Benelli shotgun. The combination of robust 17-4 stainless steel construction, thoughtful design features like the extended parallel section and knurled end, and proven performance in pattern consistency makes them a standout product. The value proposition is strong, especially considering the lifetime warranty and the tangible improvement in shot patterns, which can directly translate to more successful shooting outings. I would wholeheartedly recommend these choke tubes to serious shotgun enthusiasts who value precision and reliability. If you own a compatible Benelli and are seeking to elevate your shotgun’s performance, these tubes are a wise investment that will undoubtedly enhance your shooting experience.