Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Blued Sport Clays 12 Gauge Choke Tube Review

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Blued Sport Clays 12 Gauge Choke Tube: Is It Really That Good?

For years, I’ve relied on my Benelli for a variety of shooting disciplines, but I’d found myself wishing for a bit more consistency, especially on those sporting clays courses where tight patterns are crucial. My existing chokes, while serviceable, weren’t delivering the dense shot strings I needed to break targets consistently. This led me on a search for an upgrade, and after some research, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Blued Sport Clays 12 Gauge Choke Tube emerged as a strong contender. Its promise of tighter patterns and durable construction caught my attention.

The primary driver for this purchase was a specific need for enhanced performance on the sporting clays range. I was experiencing frustrating inconsistencies with target breaks, often feeling like my shot was spreading too loosely, leaving some clays with tell-tale chips rather than clean annihilation. The desire for a more predictable and reliable pattern from my shotgun was paramount.

My initial impression upon unboxing this choke tube was positive. The 17-4 stainless steel construction felt substantial and well-machined. The blued finish presented a clean, professional look that blended seamlessly with my shotgun’s barrel. It felt like a significant step up from some of the lighter-weight, less robust options I’d encountered in the past.

I considered a few other options, including factory Benelli chokes and some lesser-known brands, but Carlson’s reputation for quality and their specific design for the Crio Plus system tipped the scales. The immediate thought was: “This might just be the solution I’ve been looking for.”

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Blued Sport Clays 12 Gauge Choke Tube to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local indoor shooting range and then out on the skeet and sporting clays fields. I focused on installing the choke myself, and the textured, knurled section extending 0.75 inches from the barrel made this a surprisingly straightforward process. The included choke wrench was helpful, though the knurling often allowed for hand-tightening.

Conditions varied from the controlled environment of the range to the unpredictable elements of outdoor shooting. I experienced dry, sunny days and one damp, overcast afternoon. Throughout these varied conditions, the choke maintained its grip and performed consistently, without any signs of binding or undue friction.

The ease of installation was a definite plus. There was no real learning curve; it was intuitive from the start. My only minor surprise was how positively the knurling aided in both installation and removal, even after being subjected to muzzle blast and heat.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including multiple sporting clays outings and practice sessions, this Carlson’s choke tube has held up exceptionally well. It has become my go-to for challenging courses that demand precise patterning.

The durability has been impressive. Despite repeated firing and exposure to typical shooting range debris, there are no visible cracks, stiffness, or performance degradation. The 17-4 stainless steel lives up to its reputation for resilience.

Maintenance has been minimal and straightforward. A quick clean with a bore snake and a light application of gun oil after each range day keeps it in top condition. I haven’t encountered any specific issues that require special attention, which speaks volumes about its robust design.

Compared to my previous experiences with generic chokes or even some higher-priced competitor models, this unit offers a noticeable improvement in pattern density and consistency. It has genuinely elevated my shooting performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Blued Sport Clays 12 Gauge Choke Tube

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Blued Sport Clays 12 Gauge Choke Tube is meticulously machined from 17-4 stainless steel, a material renowned for its strength and corrosion resistance. This choke tube is designed specifically for the Benelli Crio Plus system, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable function with compatible Benelli shotguns. Its blued, black finish provides a sleek aesthetic while offering an additional layer of protection.

Each choke tube measures 2.75 inches in total length, with a 0.75-inch knurled section extending beyond the muzzle for easy manipulation. This extended, non-ported design is crucial for creating denser shot patterns. The constriction is clearly etched onto the end of the tube, making identification quick and effortless, a thoughtful detail for shooters who switch chokes frequently.

The 17-4 stainless steel construction is paramount for longevity and performance, resisting the wear and tear from repeated firing. The Benelli Crio Plus system compatibility guarantees precise threading and sealing within the barrel, preventing gas leakage that could degrade pattern quality. The knurled section significantly improves user experience, allowing for tool-less installation and removal in most situations.

Performance & Functionality

This choke tube excels at its primary function: delivering denser, more consistent shot patterns. On the clays course, I’ve observed a marked improvement in target breaks. Shots that might have previously resulted in incomplete breaks are now cleanly obliterated.

The strengths lie in its pattern density and predictable performance. The 17-4 stainless steel and precision machining work in concert to create a reliably tighter spread of shot. The main weakness, if one can call it that, is the limitation on certain types of ammunition.

It definitely meets and often exceeds expectations, especially considering its competitive price point. The improved performance translates directly into a more satisfying and successful shooting experience on the field.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of this choke tube is immediately apparent. The 17-4 stainless steel feels robust and substantial, promising long-term durability. The blued finish is applied evenly and appears to be quite resistant to minor scuffs and scratches.

Ergonomically, the textured, knurled section is a standout feature. It provides excellent grip, making installation and removal significantly easier than with flush-mounted chokes. The clear laser etching for constriction identification is also a practical design element that enhances usability.

The overall design is functional and no-nonsense, focused on delivering peak performance. There’s a satisfying heft to it, suggesting a quality component that’s built to last.

Durability & Maintenance

This choke tube is built for endurance. Under normal usage patterns for sporting clays and upland hunting, it’s designed to last for a lifetime. The 17-4 stainless steel is inherently resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring it won’t degrade over time.

Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a soft cloth and applying a light coat of lubricant. I haven’t encountered any specific maintenance challenges; it’s as low-maintenance as a firearm accessory can be.

Potential failure points are minimal, given the material and construction. The threading is robust, and the overall design is very solid, meaning significant wear or breakage is unlikely.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Benelli Crio Plus 12GA Blued Sporting Clays Choke Tube comes with a single choke wrench, which is a practical addition. While there aren’t extensive customization options for the choke tube itself, its primary customization is in the selection of the choke constriction you purchase. This model is specifically designed for the Benelli Crio Plus system, meaning it’s not meant for extensive modification, but rather for its intended application.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Blued Sport Clays 12 Gauge Choke Tube

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Blued Sport Clays 12 Gauge Choke Tube?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for serious sporting clays shooters and upland game hunters who prioritize precise and consistent shot patterns. If you own a compatible Benelli shotgun with the Crio Plus system and are looking to enhance your accuracy and target engagement, this is a solid investment. It’s particularly beneficial for those who find themselves needing tighter patterns for longer shots or specific target presentations.

Those who should probably skip this particular model are individuals with shotguns that do not use the Benelli Crio Plus choke system, or shooters who primarily use very high-velocity steel shot in larger sizes and require a Full or Extra Full constriction; they would need to exercise caution or select a different constriction. For those seeking a ported choke for recoil reduction, this non-ported option might not be ideal. A must-have accessory would be a reliable choke tube case to keep your chokes organized and protected when not in use.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Blued Sport Clays 12 Gauge Choke Tube

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Benelli Crio Plus Blued Sport Clays 12 Gauge Choke Tube has proven itself to be a high-performing and reliable accessory. Its precision machining and 17-4 stainless steel construction deliver on the promise of denser, more consistent patterns, which directly translates to improved shooting success. The thoughtful design, including the easy-grip knurled extension, further enhances its practicality and ease of use.

Considering its performance, durability, and the significant improvement it offers on the clays course, the $58.49 price point represents excellent value. This is not just a replacement part; it’s an upgrade that genuinely enhances the capabilities of your shotgun.

I wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube to any sporting clays enthusiast or hunter with a compatible Benelli Crio Plus shotgun who seeks to refine their shot patterns and boost their confidence. For those looking for a tangible improvement in their shooting game, this choke tube is a worthwhile and effective investment.