Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: Review

All About the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR:: Start Here

As someone who demands consistent performance from my equipment, finding the right choke tubes for waterfowl hunting has always been a priority. My Benelli Crio Plus shotgun is a cherished tool, and after years of using various aftermarket options, I was seeking a specific edge. The search led me to the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR:, a set promising specialized performance for a particular type of ammunition. The user feedback, hinting at deadly effectiveness with Black Cloud BB shot and impressive performance at distances beyond typical expectations, caught my attention. My initial impression upon unboxing was positive; the titanium finish on the 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel felt robust and well-applied, conveying a sense of serious craftsmanship. While I briefly considered other brands known for general-purpose chokes, the specific designation for Black Cloud shells made this two-pack a compelling choice. There was a palpable sense of relief and anticipation, knowing I might have finally found a solution tailored to my needs.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place during an early season goose hunt on a crisp autumn morning. The chosen scenario involved field hunting, where precise shot placement at varying ranges is paramount. I swapped out my standard Benelli choke for the Carlson’s MR (Mid Range) tube, loading up with the specified Black Cloud BB shot. The feel of the choke screwing into my Benelli Crio Plus shotgun was smooth, with no resistance or cross-threading issues, which is always a good sign.

Conditions were ideal for testing: clear skies and a light breeze, allowing for straightforward shot analysis. The MR tube performed admirably at ranges around 35-40 yards, producing exceptionally tight and consistent patterns. There were no surprises or quirks; it simply did what it was designed to do.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of a full waterfowl season, these Carlson’s chokes became my go-to set. Daily tasks involved loading and unloading the shotgun, often in damp and muddy field conditions, followed by thorough cleaning at the end of each outing. The titanium coating held up remarkably well, showing no signs of chipping or significant wear even after repeated removal and reinstallation.

Durability has been excellent; despite occasional knocks against the shotgun’s barrel or being dropped on softer ground (never concrete, thankfully), there are no visible cracks or performance drops. Maintenance is straightforward: a quick brush with a standard choke brush and a light application of oil after cleaning ensures they remain in pristine condition. Compared to other aftermarket chokes I’ve used, these Benelli Crio Plus chokes offer a tangible improvement in pattern density for the specific ammunition they are designed for, outperforming more generalized options.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR:

Specifications

This Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: includes two specialized choke tubes designed for Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12-gauge shotguns. The MR (Mid Range) choke boasts a diameter of 0.695 inches, tailored for optimal pellet performance at medium distances. The LR (Long Range) choke features a slightly tighter diameter of 0.705 inches, intended to maintain pattern integrity at extended yardages. Both are constructed from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel and finished with a durable titanium coating for enhanced corrosion resistance and reduced friction.

The titanium coating not only adds a sleek aesthetic but also contributes to easier cleaning and potentially faster shot release. The choice of 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel is a testament to durability and strength, essential for withstanding the pressures of fired shots. The specified diameters are critical; a smaller diameter generally means a tighter constriction, ideal for longer shots, while a slightly larger one can be more forgiving at closer ranges, preserving pellet energy. This pack, containing two specialized tubes, offers a significant advantage over a single choke, allowing for adaptability based on hunting scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

These chokes excel at their primary job: producing exceptionally tight and effective patterns with Black Cloud BB shot. The MR choke consistently delivered dense patterns at ranges up to 40 yards, bringing down geese with authority and minimal cripples. The LR choke extended effective range, allowing for cleaner shots on wary birds at 50 yards and beyond, a feat not easily achieved with standard chokes.

The major strength of this Carlson’s choke tube set is its specialization. It’s clear that these were designed with specific ammunition in mind, and they deliver on that promise exceptionally well. However, their performance with other types of ammunition might not be as optimized; they are truly purpose-built. They exceed expectations for their intended application, especially considering their value.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of these chokes is immediately apparent. The titanium finish is smooth and uniform, with no visible machining marks or imperfections. The threading is precise, ensuring a snug fit within my Benelli Crio Plus barrel without any wobble.

They feel substantial and well-made, reflecting their USA origin. The non-ported design contributes to a cleaner aesthetic and simpler maintenance, without the potential for ports to clog or become damaged. The knurled end of the choke tubes provides a good grip for hand-tightening, though the included choke wrench ensures proper installation and removal.

Durability & Maintenance

These chokes are built for the long haul. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction means they are inherently resistant to wear and corrosion, and the titanium coating adds another layer of protection. I’ve experienced no degradation in performance or appearance after a full season of rigorous use.

Cleaning is as simple as any other choke tube; a quick wipe-down with a cleaning cloth and a mild solvent is usually sufficient. The non-ported design means there are fewer crevices for fouling to accumulate, simplifying the cleaning process. The primary concern for any choke tube is ensuring proper installation to avoid over-tightening, which could potentially damage the barrel or choke threads over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

This Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: comes with a practical choke wrench, which is essential for proper installation and removal. While these chokes are specific to the Benelli Crio/Crio Plus system, the tubes themselves are not further customizable in terms of inserts or interchangeable parts. Their customization lies in the choice between the Mid Range and Long Range constriction, offering adaptability within their designed purpose.

The inclusion of the choke wrench is a thoughtful touch, especially for those who might be new to aftermarket chokes. It ensures the user has the necessary tool to properly seat the chokes, maximizing performance and safety. While there aren’t external customization options, the internal design and constriction choices offer the adaptability a serious waterfowl hunter needs.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR:

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR:?

This choke tube pack is an absolute must-have for any waterfowl hunter who uses a Benelli Crio or Crio Plus 12-gauge shotgun and relies on Black Cloud BB ammunition. If you frequently hunt geese or other large waterfowl at moderate to extended ranges, the performance boost these chokes offer is significant. They are ideal for those seeking to maximize the effectiveness of their shotgun and ammunition combination.

However, if you primarily use different brands of shotshells, or if your Benelli shotgun utilizes a different choke system (like the standard Benelli Mobilchoke), these specific tubes will not be compatible. Likewise, hunters who only shoot at very close ranges might find the specialized constrictions less critical. For anyone using this specific setup, I would highly recommend pairing them with a good quality bore snake and a dedicated choke tube case for safe storage and transport.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR:

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Black Cloud Benelli Crio/Crio Plus 12ga 2 Pack, MR & LR: are a prime example of specialized gear done right. They deliver precisely what they promise: outstanding patterning and terminal performance when paired with Black Cloud BB shot in Benelli Crio/Crio Plus systems. The combination of durable materials, thoughtful design, and specialized constrictions makes them a worthwhile investment for any serious waterfowl hunter aiming to improve their success in the field.

Considering the performance boost they provide and the fact that you get two highly effective tubes for under $150, the value proposition is undeniable. I wholeheartedly recommend this two-pack to anyone running the specified Benelli setup and using Black Cloud ammunition. They truly elevate the effectiveness of an already potent waterfowl hunting combination, making those critical shots more attainable and ethical.