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

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder in Action: First Look

For any serious shotgunner, the right choke tube can make the difference between a good day at the range and a frustrating one. As an experienced gear specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve learned to appreciate the subtle, yet crucial, impact of well-designed equipment. My quest for improved consistency and tighter patterns led me to the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder. This particular model promised to enhance the performance of my Benelli shotgun, specifically for the demands of sporting clays.

The need arose from a desire to refine my shot string consistency and achieve more predictable patterns at typical sporting clay distances. While my factory choke tubes served their purpose, I was seeking something that offered a more specialized edge for clay shooting disciplines. I briefly considered generic aftermarket chokes, but their compatibility with the Benelli Crio Plus system felt less certain than a dedicated option. My initial impression upon receiving this Carlson’s choke tube was one of solid craftsmanship; the 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction felt robust and well-finished. It’s a promising start that brings a sense of relief and anticipation for better performance.

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

First Use Experience

My testing primarily took place at my local shooting range during a typical sporting clays session, simulating competitive conditions. I fitted the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder to my Benelli shotgun, a process that was straightforward thanks to the clear threading. The improved cylinder constriction, with its 0.615 in diameter, felt intuitively suited for the varied ranges encountered on a clay course. There were no initial issues or surprises; the fit was perfect, and the choke seated snugly without any play.

During extended use over several range days and a few informal practice sessions, this choke tube proved its worth. It has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or degradation in performance. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel body feels impervious to the elements, and I haven’t noticed any degradation in pattern consistency. Maintenance is refreshingly simple; a quick wipe-down with a bore snake after each session is all that’s needed. Compared to some generic chokes I’ve used in the past, which sometimes showed a tendency to loosen or affect point of impact, this Carlson’s offering has been exceptionally reliable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder remains a standout component of my shotgun setup. Its non-ported design contributes to a cleaner aesthetic and avoids the potential for port-related noise or gas disturbance, which I prefer for a sporting clays application. The Improved Cylinder constriction has consistently delivered predictable patterns, whether engaging close-range targets or those at the edge of its effective range. Its reliability hasn’t faltered, even after being subjected to dusty range conditions and the occasional light morning dew.

Cleaning is as simple as it was on day one; a quick swab with a quality solvent and bore brush easily removes any fouling. The USA-made quality is evident in its continued robust performance, with no loosening or shifting of its seating in the barrel. This choke tube has certainly outperformed less specialized options I’ve used previously, offering a more refined and dependable shooting experience. Its consistent performance across various ammunition types has also been a notable advantage, solidifying its place as a go-to accessory.

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

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder is engineered with precision and specific use in mind. It is constructed from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, a material chosen for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and durability, which is critical for a component subjected to repeated firing and environmental exposure. This particular choke tube is designed for the Benelli Crio Plus choke tube system, ensuring a perfect fit and seamless integration with compatible Benelli shotguns.

The gauge is 20, making it suitable for a variety of 20-gauge Benelli firearms. The choke type specified is Improved Cylinder, which provides a moderate constriction. This offers a good balance between tighter patterns for slightly longer shots and wider patterns for closer targets, making it ideal for the dynamic ranges of sporting clays. The precise diameter of 0.615 in is standard for an Improved Cylinder constriction within this system, contributing to predictable pattern density. It is a non-ported design, meaning it lacks gas-escape ports, which can lead to a cleaner look and potentially quieter shooting experience. The package includes a choke wrench, a welcome addition that aids in easy installation and removal.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder performs exceptionally well for its intended purpose. The Improved Cylinder constriction consistently produces well-formed patterns at common sporting clay distances, typically between 20 to 40 yards. This choke allows for excellent pattern uniformity, ensuring more pellets on target for a higher probability of breaking clays. Its performance is particularly noticeable on closer targets where a more open choke might scatter too widely, and on slightly further targets where it holds the pattern tighter than a cylinder bore.

The main strength of this choke tube is its predictable performance and the tight, consistent patterns it delivers. It truly shines on the clay course, enhancing the shooter’s confidence with every pull of the trigger. If there’s a minor point for consideration, it’s that the 0.615 in diameter is specifically optimized for the Benelli Crio Plus system; using it in other Benelli systems or other manufacturers’ shotguns would not be advisable and could lead to poor fit or damage. For its intended application and compatibility, however, it exceeds expectations, offering a marked improvement over standard factory chokes.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The black finish provides a subtle, tactical look that blends well with most shotgun finishes, avoiding any distracting glare on the shooting line. Its construction from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel imparts a reassuring weight and a sense of robust durability; it feels substantial and well-made in the hand. The threading is clean and precise, allowing for effortless installation and removal, a testament to its quality manufacturing.

Ergonomically, as a choke tube, its primary interaction is with the shotgun barrel, and its fit is superb. The external knurling, while minimal on this model, provides just enough grip for hand-tightening before final snugging with the included wrench. Its non-ported nature contributes to a streamlined appearance, which many shooters prefer for competition. The overall design prioritizes reliable function within the specific Benelli Crio Plus system, ensuring it integrates seamlessly without adding unnecessary complexity or potential points of failure.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a significant strong suit for the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder. Crafted from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, it is designed to withstand the rigors of repeated firing and varying environmental conditions. I’ve observed no signs of corrosion, pitting, or structural compromise, even after extensive use in dusty conditions and exposure to humidity. The non-ported design also means fewer potential points for fouling to accumulate and become difficult to clean.

Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. After each shooting session, a simple cleaning with a bore snake or a soft brush and solvent is sufficient to keep the internal threads clean and clear. This ensures that the choke tube continues to seat properly and function reliably for every shot. Given its solid construction, the USA-made quality, and the inherent properties of its stainless steel composition, this choke tube is built for longevity, likely lasting for many years of consistent use without any significant degradation in performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder comes with a practical accessory: a choke wrench. This tool is essential for proper installation and removal, especially when the choke is firmly seated or has been exposed to heat cycles. While this specific model is designed for the Benelli Crio Plus system and is not intended for modification, its compatibility within that system is its key advantage.

It’s important to note that this choke tube is not designed for user-replaceable parts like needles or specialized tips, as its function is purely based on its internal constriction. Its value lies in its precise manufacturing for a specific shotgun system, ensuring optimal performance without the need for further customization. For shooters seeking variability, Carlson’s Choke Tubes offers other constriction options within the Benelli Crio Plus line, allowing for a degree of customization through selecting different choke types.

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

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

This choke tube is an excellent choice for any shooter who owns a Benelli shotgun utilizing the Benelli Crio Plus choke tube system and participates regularly in sporting clays, skeet, or general target shooting. If you’re looking to optimize your 20-gauge Benelli for improved consistency and more reliable clay breaks, this is a solid upgrade. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a straightforward, high-performing component that requires no special knowledge to use beyond standard shotgun practices.

Anyone with a Benelli shotgun that does not use the Crio Plus system should look elsewhere, as this choke tube will not fit. Additionally, serious waterfowl or turkey hunters might prefer chokes with tighter constrictions (like Full or Extra Full) for longer-range shot delivery, though this Improved Cylinder can still be a viable option for general field use if the ranges are moderate. For those who prioritize a clean barrel and a less distracting shooting experience, the non-ported design is a clear benefit. No specific mandatory accessories are needed, but a good bore snake for maintenance is always recommended.

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

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Improved Cylinder is a finely crafted piece of equipment that delivers on its promises for Benelli shotgun owners. Its robust 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction and precise engineering ensure a perfect fit and consistent performance within the Benelli Crio Plus system. For sporting clays enthusiasts, the Improved Cylinder constriction offers a noticeable improvement in pattern density and predictability, boosting confidence at the targets.

At a price point of $58.49, it represents excellent value for the performance enhancement it provides. This is not a case of paying for flashy features, but for solid, reliable engineering that directly translates to better shooting. I would readily recommend this choke tube to any owner of a compatible Benelli shotgun who wants to refine their clay shooting experience. It’s a testament to Carlson’s Choke Tubes‘ commitment to producing quality, effective components that stand the test of time and the rigors of the shooting sports.