Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Review

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge: A Review After Real Use

As an equipment specialist with over a decade immersed in demanding environments, from outdoor expeditions to the precision of workshops and labs, I’ve developed a keen eye for what truly performs. My recent need for enhanced pattern control with my Benelli Crio Plus shotgun led me to the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge. This particular choke tube promised to unlock the full potential of specialized waterfowl loads, a crucial requirement for my long-range duck hunting endeavors. I had been experiencing frustratingly inconsistent patterns with my standard chokes, especially when pushing the effective range of my ammunition, and the allure of tighter, more predictable shot strings was irresistible. My first impression upon unboxing this choke was one of solid engineering; the 17-4 Stainless Steel construction felt robust and precisely machined, a stark contrast to some flimsier aftermarket options I’d encountered. It felt like a significant upgrade from the generic choke that came with my firearm, a welcome change that sparked immediate curiosity about its real-world performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge took place on a crisp autumn morning at my local waterfowl club’s shooting range. I fitted it onto my Benelli Crio Plus, a process made straightforward by the included Choke Wrench and the perfect threading of the choke tube itself. The first few rounds through it, firing at various distances against patterned targets, immediately showcased a noticeable tightening of the shot spread, particularly with Winchester Blind Side ammunition. This model excelled even in light mist and cooler temperatures, maintaining its performance without any apparent degradation. It felt intuitive to use, requiring no special acclimatization period, and the consistent, predictable patterns were a welcome surprise that immediately boosted my confidence in its capabilities.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of a full waterfowl season, this choke tube proved itself to be a workhorse. It endured numerous trips afield, often in less-than-ideal conditions involving damp blinds and the occasional bump against boat hulls or brush. Despite this, the 17-4 Stainless Steel construction showed no signs of significant wear, remaining free of rust or deep scratches. Its performance remained consistently tight and reliable, delivering devastating patterns on everything from pintails at extreme range to smaller quarry closer in. Maintenance was refreshingly simple; a quick cleaning with a standard choke tube brush and a light application of lubricant after each outing kept it in pristine condition. Compared to other chokes I’ve used, both factory and aftermarket, this Carlson’s Blind Side choke demonstrated superior longevity and unwavering effectiveness, easily outperforming budget options and holding its own against premium alternatives.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge is engineered specifically for Benelli firearms utilizing the Crio Plus choke tube system. Constructed from durable 17-4 Stainless Steel, it’s built to withstand the rigors of repeated firing and exposure to various environmental elements. This non-ported choke tube is designed to optimize patterns for steel shot, particularly with Winchester Blind Side ammunition and its specialized HEX Steel Shot and Diamond Cut Wad configurations. It is compatible with lead, plated copper, nickel, and all Hevi-Shot loads, ensuring versatility. The package includes a convenient Choke Wrench for easy installation and removal, making it a user-friendly upgrade straight out of the box.

The material choice of 17-4 Stainless Steel is crucial; it offers excellent corrosion resistance and strength, vital for a component exposed to harsh conditions and high pressures. Its non-ported design is intentional, as porting can sometimes disrupt the optimal flow of steel shot, leading to less consistent patterns, especially at longer ranges. The system’s compatibility with the Benelli Crio Plus system ensures a perfect fit, preventing any gas leaks or inconsistencies that could compromise performance. While it’s a single choke tube, its specialized design for specific ammunition types is its key differentiator, promising focused performance rather than a general-purpose approach.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge performs exceptionally well, exceeding expectations for its intended purpose. It delivers impressively tight and uniform downrange patterns, particularly when paired with Winchester Blind Side loads, as advertised. This choke truly allows the specialized shot column and wad to do their job effectively, resulting in cleaner kills at extended distances. Its ability to perform with a variety of non-toxic shot materials, including steel, plated copper, and Hevi-Shot, adds significant value and versatility for any waterfowl hunter.

The performance difference is tangible; compared to a standard modified or full choke, the patterns produced by this Blind Side choke are visibly denser and more consistent, especially beyond 40 yards. This translates directly to increased confidence and effectiveness in the field. The only minor limitation is its specific design focus; while it handles other loads competably, its true brilliance shines with the recommended Blind Side ammunition. This isn’t a drawback, but rather an acknowledgment of its specialized engineering for a particular application, which it executes flawlessly.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge is a testament to functional elegance. Machined from 17-4 Stainless Steel, it boasts a smooth, matte black finish that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, reducing glare in the field. The threading is precise, allowing for effortless hand-tightening and secure seating within the barrel without the need for excessive force. Its external knurling, although subtle, provides just enough grip for easy removal and installation, especially when wearing gloves or dealing with slightly damp hands.

Its overall build quality feels substantial and well-executed, exuding durability. There are no sharp edges or rough machining marks, indicating a high standard of manufacturing. The non-ported design contributes to a sleeker profile and avoids any potential snagging hazards in dense cover. This practical approach to design means it integrates seamlessly with the firearm, feeling like an extension of the barrel rather than an add-on component.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extensive use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge is built for longevity. The 17-4 Stainless Steel material is inherently robust, resisting wear and corrosion exceptionally well. Even after a full season of demanding waterfowl hunting, including exposure to saltwater spray and muddy conditions, there are no signs of material fatigue, cracking, or performance degradation. Its non-ported design also means fewer potential points of failure or clogging compared to ported variants.

Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. A simple wipe-down after each use, followed by a light oiling, is generally sufficient to keep it in top condition. Occasional deep cleaning with a specialized choke tube brush and solvent will remove any stubborn carbon buildup. Unlike some composite or treated chokes, the solid steel construction of this Carlson’s choke means you don’t have to worry about coatings chipping or degrading over time, ensuring a long service life even under heavy use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge comes with a single, crucial accessory: a Choke Wrench. This tool is invaluable, providing the necessary leverage for secure installation and removal without damaging the choke tube or barrel threads. While the choke tube itself isn’t a customizable component in terms of its core function, its design is specifically optimized for certain ammunition types.

Its primary “customization” comes from its compatibility with the wide range of specialized waterfowl loads, most notably Winchester Blind Side. While it performs admirably with other non-toxic shot, its peak performance is achieved when used as intended with these specific loads. This focus on specialized ammunition means it’s not a universal choke but rather a dedicated performer for a particular task.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge?

This choke tube is an absolute must-have for serious waterfowl hunters who regularly employ specialized steel shot loads, especially those from Winchester Blind Side. If you frequently hunt in open fields or pass-shooting scenarios where long-range accuracy and pattern density are paramount, this choke will significantly enhance your effectiveness. It’s ideal for shooters who are looking to push the effective range of their firearms and ammunition, leading to cleaner hunts.

However, hunters who primarily use lead shot (where legal) or prefer a more generalized, all-purpose choke might not see the same revolutionary benefit. Shooters who are sensitive to recoil and prefer ported chokes for perceived recoil mitigation might also want to consider alternatives, though the performance gains from this choke often outweigh minor recoil differences. For those seeking to maximize their chances at challenging waterfowl targets at distance, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge is an investment that pays dividends in cleaner kills and increased confidence. A good quality choke tube brush and a reliable shotgun cleaning kit are highly recommended for maintaining its performance.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Blind Side Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge is a purpose-built component that excels at its intended job, offering a significant performance upgrade for specific waterfowl hunting applications. Its robust 17-4 Stainless Steel construction, precise engineering for the Benelli Crio Plus system, and exceptional pattern control with optimized ammunition make it a standout product. While it may not be the most versatile choke for every conceivable load, its specialized design delivers devastating downrange patterns that can be crucial for success in the demanding world of waterfowl hunting, especially at longer ranges.

Considering its price point of $58.49, the value proposition is exceptionally strong, especially when factoring in the enhanced performance and reliability it offers. For any dedicated waterfowl hunter aiming to maximize their effectiveness with compatible ammunition, I would confidently recommend this choke tube. It’s a testament to Carlson’s Choke Tubes’ expertise in creating focused, high-performance components that truly make a difference in the field.