Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet Review

Let Me Tell You About the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet

For anyone who spends considerable time afield or at the range, the subtle nuances of firearm accessories can make a world of difference. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet is one such component that promises to refine shot patterns and elevate performance. As an individual with over a decade of practical experience across diverse environments – from dusty workshops to windswept fields – I’m always on the lookout for gear that performs as advertised. This particular choke tube caught my eye due to its specific application for sporting clays and skeet shooting, disciplines where precise shot placement is paramount.

My journey to this specific choke tube wasn’t a sudden impulse; rather, it was driven by a desire to optimize my 20-gauge shotgun for the dynamic environments of sporting clays. While my existing chokes served adequately for general upland hunting, I found myself wanting a tighter, more consistent pattern for those longer clay targets and tighter, more forgiving patterns for close-range skeet. The need for a specialized tool became apparent, one that could bridge this gap effectively. I briefly considered a more generic multi-choke set, but the allure of a specifically designed skeet choke for the Browning Invector Plus system was too strong to ignore.

My initial impression upon receiving the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet was one of solid craftsmanship. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction felt robust, and the black finish was both understated and functional, promising good corrosion resistance. It’s a component that, at first glance, instills a sense of confidence that it’s built to last and perform.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet to the Test

My testing grounds for this choke tube were primarily the clay fields, focusing on a mix of sporting clays courses and dedicated skeet fields. I fitted the choke tube into my trusted Browning shotgun, which utilizes the Browning Invector Plus system. The installation was straightforward, a testament to the precise manufacturing of the product.

First Use Experience

The initial trip to the range was eye-opening. I ran a series of target loads through the shotgun, focusing on specific stations designed to simulate different clay presentations. The Skeet constriction, as expected, delivered a wonderfully even and forgiving pattern at closer ranges, which is precisely what you need for skeet doubles. On the sporting clays course, targets ranging from 20 to 35 yards were consistently broken with authority.

The choke’s non-ported design meant I experienced no undue blast or concussion beyond what’s typical for standard shotgun loads. It performed reliably across a spectrum of light to medium target loads, maintaining a consistent pattern density. There were no surprises or quirks; it simply performed its intended function with admirable consistency.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, approximately 500-600 rounds through the choke tube, its performance has remained undiminished. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel material has proven its worth, showing no signs of wear or corrosion, even with occasional exposure to light dew and dust at the range. The threads remain clean and function smoothly, a crucial aspect for any choke tube that will be swapped out periodically.

Cleaning is a simple affair; a quick brush and solvent application at the end of each range session is all that’s needed. Compared to some aftermarket chokes I’ve used in the past that developed issues with sticky threads or pattern degradation, this Carlson’s offering has been remarkably trouble-free. It’s a component that you install and then largely forget about, trusting it to do its job shot after shot.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Carlson’s Choke Tubes
• Color: Black
• Fabric/Material: 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel
• Gauge: 20
• Choke Tube System: Browning Invector Plus (+)
• Choke Type: Skeet
• Diameter: 0.625 in
• Gun Make: Browning
• Quantity: 1
• Additional Features: Non-Ported
• Included Accessories: Choke Wrench
• Country of Origin: USA

These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits for the shooter. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel is a premium material known for its strength and corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. The Browning Invector Plus (+) system compatibility means a perfect fit for many popular Browning shotguns. The Skeet constriction is specifically engineered for wider, more forgiving patterns at typical skeet and close-range sporting clays distances.

The 0.625 in diameter indicates a very open choke, ideal for delivering a wide, even spread of shot. This contrasts with tighter chokes designed for longer-range shooting. The Non-Ported design simplifies maintenance and eliminates potential concerns about gas ports affecting the shot charge. The inclusion of a Choke Wrench is a thoughtful touch, ensuring you have the necessary tool for installation and removal right out of the box. Being made in the USA also often implies a higher standard of quality control.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any choke tube is to shape the shot pattern. The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet excels at this for its intended purpose. For skeet, it produces a beautifully uniform cloud of shot that makes breaking clays at standard distances feel almost effortless. The generous spread means that slight aiming imperfections are often compensated for by the pattern’s density.

On sporting clays, its effectiveness shines on closer targets. Birds thrown out to 25-30 yards are reliably dismantled. While it’s not designed for the extended ranges of a more constricted choke like Improved Cylinder or Modified, it performs exceptionally well within its designed envelope. Its strength lies in its consistent, wide pattern, making it ideal for disciplines where speed and reactive shooting are key.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is functional and understated, as expected for a component like this. The Black finish is durable and resists scratching reasonably well. The knurled end provides adequate grip for installation and removal, though the included Choke Wrench is the primary tool for secure tightening. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel gives it a satisfying heft, suggesting robust construction without being excessively heavy.

Ergonomically, it’s a passive component; you install it and forget it. There are no controls to manipulate, but its smooth exterior and precisely machined threads contribute to an easy and secure fit within the barrel. The lack of ports simplifies its visual appeal and reduces any potential for external damage to delicate gas redirection features.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its material and construction, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet is built for durability. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel is highly resistant to wear and the corrosive effects of gunpowder residue. I anticipate this choke tube will last for many years, potentially a lifetime, with proper care.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning after use prevents residue buildup, which can affect thread integrity and even pattern performance. Ensuring the threads are clean and lightly lubricated with a quality choke tube lubricant is key to preventing seizing, especially if it’s left in the barrel for extended periods or exposed to harsh conditions. There are no obvious points of failure; it’s a solid piece of machined metal.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet comes with a single essential accessory: a Choke Wrench. This is a practical inclusion that makes the product immediately usable without requiring an additional purchase. While this specific choke tube is a fixed constriction (Skeet), Carlson’s offers other interchangeable chokes within the Invector Plus system, allowing for a degree of customization if you later decide to experiment with different patterns for different shooting disciplines.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for dedicated clay target shooters who primarily engage in skeet or close-range sporting clays. If you own a 20-gauge Browning shotgun with the Browning Invector Plus (+) receiver and are looking to optimize your performance in these specific disciplines, this choke is a fantastic upgrade. It’s for the shooter who understands the value of a specialized tool for a specialized task.

Individuals who need a versatile choke for a wide range of hunting scenarios or long-distance target shooting should look elsewhere. This is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Anyone who frequently needs to swap between many different choke constrictions might find a multi-choke set more convenient, though perhaps less specialized.

A must-have accessory for any choke tube, including this one, is a quality choke tube lubricant. Applying this to the threads before installation will make future removal much easier, preventing seizing and potential damage, especially after firing many rounds.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 20ga Black Sporting Clay Skeet is a finely crafted component that delivers on its promise for specific shooting applications. Its 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction ensures it will be a reliable part of your kit for years to come. The consistent, forgiving patterns it produces are precisely what is needed to excel in skeet and close-range sporting clays.

For its specialized performance within the Browning Invector Plus (+) system, the $52.49 price point is justifiable, especially considering it includes a Choke Wrench and is manufactured in the USA. It’s a targeted upgrade that offers tangible improvements for the right shooter.

Ultimately, I would highly recommend this choke tube to any 20-gauge Browning Invector Plus owner whose focus is on skeet or close-range clays. If your shooting interests lie within that niche, this choke will undoubtedly enhance your experience and performance. For those with broader needs, consider it as one part of a comprehensive choke tube collection.