Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full Review

Is the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full Worth It? Let’s Find Out

As someone who spends a considerable amount of time honing skills on the clay course, the pursuit of consistent patterns is an ongoing quest. My trusty Browning Citori, chambered in 28 gauge, has always been a joy to shoot, but I found myself yearning for tighter patterns at longer sporting clay distances. This led me to explore options beyond the standard factory chokes, and after some research, I landed on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full. Carlson’s has a solid reputation in the shooting world for producing reliable aftermarket choke tubes, so the prospect of a specifically designed extra-full sporting clay tube held significant promise. My previous experience with a more open choke for close-range skeet taught me that the right constriction can make a tangible difference in target acquisition and break.

Upon receiving the choke tube, the initial impression was one of quality. The black finish is understated yet durable, and the 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction feels robust and substantial. It’s a simple component, a cylindrical piece of precisely machined metal, but its significance in the overall shooting experience is immense. I considered a ported version, thinking it might reduce recoil, but opted against it to avoid potential sonic issues and the added complexity. The immediate reaction upon seeing it was a quiet sense of anticipation, a feeling that this small addition might just unlock a new level of performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full was at my local sporting clays course, a mix of open fields and wooded lanes presenting a variety of challenging shots. I installed the choke tube on a bright, crisp Saturday morning, taking care to apply a thin coat of choke tube lubricant to ensure a smooth fit and easy removal later. The installation was straightforward, the threads engaging cleanly with my Browning receiver.

During the round, I immediately noticed a difference in the pattern density at distances where I typically saw more “flyers.” The extra-full constriction definitely tightened up my shot string, leading to more satisfying audible breaks on targets that were previously more questionable. Even on some slightly windier shots, where atmospheric conditions can play havoc with shot, the patterns held together remarkably well. The choke tube performed as expected, offering a noticeable increase in pattern density without any obvious drawbacks in terms of recoil or muzzle jump, a testament to its non-ported design.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several months and numerous sporting clay outings, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve shot in varying conditions, from drizzly mornings to dry, dusty afternoons, and the performance has remained consistent. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel has shown no signs of corrosion or significant wear, even after I inadvertently dropped it once on the gravel parking lot while cleaning my shotgun.

Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only a quick wipe-down and reapplication of lubricant every few outings. Compared to some other aftermarket chokes I’ve used in the past, this Carlson’s model feels more resilient and less prone to carbon buildup in the threads. It’s a component that simply works, allowing me to focus on my shooting rather than worrying about equipment performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full

Specifications

This choke tube is designed specifically for the Browning Invector Plus (+) choke tube system. It is chambered for the 28 gauge shotshell and features an Extra Full constriction, which is characterized by a very tight constriction designed for longer-range shooting. The manufacturer specifies a diameter of 0.526 inches, which is precisely engineered to achieve that extra-full pattern. The material used is 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, a high-grade alloy known for its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion.

The black finish not only provides a sleek aesthetic but also adds an extra layer of protection against the elements. This model is non-ported, meaning it doesn’t have vents to reduce recoil or muzzle climb; this is often preferred by shooters who want the purest pattern integrity without potential gasses affecting the shot. It comes as a single unit, with one choke wrench included for easy installation and removal. Manufactured in the USA, it reflects a commitment to domestic production standards.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any choke tube is to shape the shot pattern, and the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full excels at this, particularly for its intended application. The Extra Full constriction delivers exceptionally tight patterns, which translate to more consistent breaks on targets at intermediate to longer ranges common in sporting clays. On test targets at 30 and 40 yards, the patterns were remarkably dense and uniform, with fewer “gaps” than I’ve experienced with less restrictive chokes.

Its strength lies in its ability to extend the effective range of a 28 gauge shotgun for specific disciplines. The major benefit is the increased probability of breaking targets that are on the edge of effective range. A slight limitation for some might be that the extreme tightness of the pattern can make it less forgiving for very close targets, potentially causing them to be destroyed rather than cleanly broken if not perfectly centered. However, for sporting clays and perhaps even some forms of upland hunting where birds are flushed at a distance, this is the desired outcome.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this choke tube is focused on function and durability. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel provides a solid, weighty feel, reassuring you of its robust construction. The black finish is applied evenly and has held up well to handling and exposure. The threading is precise, ensuring it screws in smoothly and securely into the Browning Invector Plus barrel system without any binding.

Ergonomically, it’s a simple part; its design is all about its internal geometry. The external knurling at the muzzle end provides a decent grip for hand-tightening and removal, though the included choke wrench makes final tightening and loosening much easier. There are no complex controls or adjustments, keeping usability straightforward. The non-ported design contributes to a clean look and avoids any sharp edges or protrusions that could snag on gear.

Durability & Maintenance

Built from 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel, this choke tube is engineered for longevity and resilience. Under normal sporting clay use, which involves regular firing and occasional cleaning, this choke tube should last for many years, if not a lifetime. The material’s inherent resistance to rust and corrosion means that even if exposed to moisture, it’s unlikely to degrade significantly.

Maintenance is thankfully minimal. A light application of a quality choke tube lubricant before installation is recommended, and a periodic cleaning of the threads with a solvent and brush will prevent buildup. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points with this particular model, but as with any threaded component, ensuring the threads remain clean and free of debris is key to smooth operation and preventing galling.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full is a standalone component, with the primary accessory included being a simple, yet effective, choke wrench. This tool is essential for safely installing and removing the choke tube from your shotgun. While there aren’t extensive customization options for the choke tube itself beyond selecting the constriction and gauge, its compatibility is key.

It’s important to note that this choke tube is specifically designed for firearms utilizing the Browning Invector Plus (+) choke tube system. It is not compatible with older Browning Invector, Invector-Plus, or other manufacturers’ proprietary systems without an adapter, which is generally not recommended. The value here is in its direct fitment and engineered performance for compatible Browning shotguns.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for sporting clays enthusiasts who primarily shoot a 28 gauge Browning shotgun and are looking to extend the effective range of their firearm. It’s ideal for competitors or recreational shooters who frequently encounter targets at intermediate to longer distances and want the confidence of a consistently dense pattern. If you find yourself wishing your 28 gauge had a bit more reach for those slightly farther targets, this is a very compelling option.

However, individuals who primarily shoot skeet, close-range trap, or disciplines with very close targets might find the Extra Full constriction overkill and potentially detrimental to breaking targets cleanly. Shooters who own shotguns with different choke tube systems (e.g., standard Invector, Beretta MobilChoke, etc.) will need to look for a different model or a shotgun compatible with the Invector Plus system. For those venturing into more technical upland hunting scenarios where birds might flush unexpectedly at varying distances, a less restrictive choke might offer more versatility.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Browning Invector Plus 28ga Black Sporting Clay Extra Full is a finely crafted piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of tighter patterns for longer-range shooting. For the price point of $52.49, it offers exceptional value, providing a significant performance upgrade for compatible Browning shotguns. The 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel construction ensures it will be a reliable component for years to come.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube to any sporting clays shooter with a Browning Invector Plus 28 gauge shotgun who is seeking to maximize their effectiveness on distant targets. It’s a component that allows the shooter to focus on technique, confident in the knowledge that their shotgun is throwing a consistent, dense pattern. While not the most versatile choke for every conceivable shotgunning scenario, for its intended purpose, it is an outstanding and worthwhile investment.