The Road Test: Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538
As a gear specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve come to appreciate the nuanced role each component plays in a system’s overall performance. My recent dive into the world of shotgun chokes led me to the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538. This specific choke tube is designed for those who demand precision and consistency, particularly in the fast-paced arena of sporting clays.
My search for a reliable choke began after a particularly frustrating afternoon at the range. My existing choke, a generic fixed model, was simply not providing the consistent patterns I needed for the challenging clay courses. I needed something more refined, something designed specifically for the demands of competitive shooting, and that’s when the Carlson’s offering caught my eye. I considered a few other aftermarket brands, but Carlson’s reputation for quality and their specific designation for sporting clays tipped the scales. A wave of anticipation, a familiar feeling before a promising gear test, washed over me.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on a bright, crisp Saturday at my local shooting club’s sporting clays course. The goal was to simulate the varied distances and angles encountered during a typical competition round. I fitted the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538 into my trusty Beretta 28 gauge semi-automatic, which utilizes the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke system.
The installation was straightforward, a testament to the well-machined threads, and it seated perfectly. I immediately noticed a difference in the feel of the gun; it seemed more balanced. The first few stations presented targets at ranges from 20 to 40 yards, and the choke performed admirably, producing noticeably tighter and more uniform patterns than my previous setup. Even when faced with some light mist rolling in during the afternoon, the choke maintained its performance, and I experienced no issues with cycling or ejection. The learning curve was practically non-existent; it felt like a natural extension of the barrel.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past few months, this particular choke has become a fixture in my competition shotgun. I’ve taken it to numerous sporting clays shoots, practice sessions, and even a few informal skeet rounds. It has endured hundreds of rounds, from standard target loads to slightly heavier field loads, without any discernible drop in performance.
Durability has been excellent; there are no visible cracks, no stiffness in the threads, and the stainless steel finish still looks nearly new despite being handled frequently and occasionally exposed to dusty range conditions. Maintenance is refreshingly simple; a quick clean with a bore snake and a light application of lubricant to the threads after each major session is all it requires. Compared to some pricier, boutique chokes I’ve used in the past, it has held its own remarkably well, and it certainly outclasses the performance of any generic fixed choke I’ve ever owned.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538 is a meticulously crafted piece of engineering, designed with the sporting clays shooter in mind. Its core construction is 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, a material known for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. This material choice is crucial for a component subjected to the rigors of repeated firing and varying environmental conditions.
The choke tube features a Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke system compatibility, making it a direct fit for a wide range of popular shotgun models from these renowned manufacturers. It is specifically designated as a Modified choke type, offering a constriction that balances pattern density and spread for intermediate ranges commonly encountered in sporting clays. The 0.538 in diameter is a precise measurement, indicating the engineered constriction that influences shot pattern.
This is a 28 gauge specific tube, ensuring optimal fit and function within that gauge. It’s a non-ported design, which means it relies on its internal constriction rather than ports to manage recoil and muzzle jump, a preference for many shooters. The finish is a clean, functional Stainless color, providing a subtle aesthetic that complements most shotgun barrels. It is sold as a single unit ( Quantity: 1 ) and includes a handy Choke Wrench for easy installation and removal, a thoughtful addition that simplifies user experience. Manufactured in the USA, this choke tube carries the hallmark of domestic quality.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function – delivering consistent shot patterns – this Carlson’s choke tube excels. The Modified constriction strikes an excellent balance, producing dense patterns at ranges typically between 25 and 45 yards, which are common in sporting clays. It effectively bridges the gap between a Cylinder bore (too open for longer shots) and a Full choke (often too restrictive for closer targets).
The 0.538 inch diameter contributes to predictable performance, and I observed very few flyers or excessively wide patterns, even with different shot loads. Its strength lies in its consistency; round after round, the patterns remained remarkably uniform, translating directly to more consistent breaks on clays. For its intended purpose on the sporting clays course, it functions exceptionally well, meeting and often exceeding expectations for a choke in this price bracket.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538 is straightforward and purpose-built. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel provides a solid, weighty feel that instills confidence in its durability. The external machining is clean, with crisp threads that ensure a smooth, secure fit into the shotgun barrel.
Its non-ported design contributes to a cleaner aesthetic and avoids any potential issues associated with porting, such as increased noise or debris. The inclusion of the Choke Wrench in the package is a practical ergonomic consideration, ensuring the user has the right tool immediately available for installation and removal. The overall feel is one of robust, no-nonsense engineering focused purely on performance.
Durability & Maintenance
The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction is the cornerstone of this choke tube’s durability. After considerable use, it shows no signs of weakening, cracking, or significant wear. The internal surfaces remain smooth, preventing undue shot deformation and maintaining pattern integrity.
Maintenance is minimal; a simple cleaning after each use with a good quality bore cleaner and a light application of choke tube lubricant to the threads is sufficient. It’s important to ensure the threads are clean and lubricated to prevent galling, especially with repeated removal and installation. This particular choke tube is built to be a long-lasting component, not a disposable part.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary accessory included with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538 is a Choke Wrench. This simple yet effective tool is crucial for safely and easily installing and removing the choke tube. While there are no other included accessories, the choke tube itself is designed to work with a vast ecosystem of ammunition.
Compatibility is key, as this tube is specifically made for the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke system. This means it will seamlessly integrate with standard factory shotgun barrels designed for this system. There are no external customization options for the choke itself, as its design is optimized for its specific constriction and length for sporting clays.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538
Pros
- Consistent Patterns: Delivers very uniform and predictable shot patterns, crucial for breaking clays.
- Durable Construction: Made from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel for long-lasting performance and corrosion resistance.
- Ideal for Sporting Clays: The Modified .538 constriction is perfectly suited for the typical ranges encountered in sporting clays.
- Direct Fit: Designed for the popular Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke system, ensuring easy installation on compatible shotguns.
- Includes Choke Wrench: Comes with a useful tool for immediate installation and removal.
- Excellent Value: Offers high-quality performance at a competitive price point.
Cons
- Single Gauge/System Specific: Only compatible with 28 gauge shotguns using the Beretta/Benelli Mobil system.
- Non-ported Design: While preferred by many, some shooters may prefer ported chokes for perceived recoil reduction.
- Limited Range of Constrictions: This specific model is a Modified; other constrictions are available from the manufacturer but not included here.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538?
This choke tube is an excellent choice for any sporting clays enthusiast who owns a 28 gauge shotgun compatible with the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke system. It’s ideal for competitive shooters looking to optimize their pattern performance and improve their clay-breaking consistency without breaking the bank. It’s also a great upgrade for recreational shooters who want to experience the benefits of a purpose-built choke tube.
Individuals with shotguns using different choke systems (like Invector-Plus or MobilChoke variants that are not directly interchangeable) or those shooting different gauges should look at other specific models from Carlson’s or other manufacturers. If you prioritize a ported design for recoil management, this non-ported version might not be your first choice. I’d recommend pairing this with high-quality target loads specifically designed for 28 gauge shotguns for the best results.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Beretta/Benelli Mobil 28ga Sporting Clay Modified .538 is a no-nonsense upgrade that delivers tangible performance benefits for sporting clays shooters. Its robust 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction ensures longevity, while the precisely engineered Modified .538 constriction provides the consistent, dense patterns essential for success on the course. The Beretta/Benelli Mobil fitment makes it an accessible option for many, and the inclusion of a Choke Wrench adds significant user convenience.
Considering its price point, the value proposition is outstanding. It offers performance comparable to much more expensive alternatives, making it a smart investment for anyone looking to elevate their 28 gauge shotgun’s performance. I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube to any sporting clays shooter who fits its gauge and system requirements and is seeking reliable, consistent patterns. It’s a solid performer that proves a quality choke tube doesn’t need to cost a fortune.