Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder Review

This is What Happened When I Used the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder

For years, my pursuit of reliable performance on the clay course has led me down many avenues, often involving trial and error with various shotgun components. Recently, a persistent need for a consistent, open-pattern choke tube for a specific SKB shotgun prompted me to seek out a dedicated solution. I landed on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder. This model promised precision and reliability tailored for the demands of sporting clays.

My search wasn’t arbitrary; it stemmed from a desire to tighten my shot spreads at closer distances, particularly for skeet and sporting clays where targets can appear quickly and at varying ranges. The existing choke in my SKB, while functional, lacked the specific versatility I was after. I considered a few other aftermarket options, but the specific SKB fitment and Carlson’s reputation steered me toward this particular cylinder choke.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense craftsmanship. The black, 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction felt substantial and well-machined. There was a certain satisfaction in holding a component that felt purpose-built for its task.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder to the Test

My testing grounds were primarily the local shooting club’s sporting clays course and a dedicated skeet field. I ran a variety of loads through my SKB shotgun, including standard 1-ounce sporting loads and some lighter target loads, focusing on how the cylinder choke performed at ranges typically encountered in these disciplines. The 0.735-inch diameter aperture was immediately noticeable in its consistent performance, especially on closer targets.

The choke threaded in smoothly and securely, with no binding or cross-threading issues. This was a welcome change from some other aftermarket chokes I’ve encountered. Its non-ported design also meant I wasn’t dealing with any extra noise or perceived recoil changes due to gas escape.

First Use Experience

The first time I loaded and fired with the Carlson’s choke was on a crisp autumn morning. The initial shots were a revelation; the pattern was exactly what I had hoped for – an open, consistent spread perfect for breaking clays at 20-30 yards. I experienced no unexpected flyers or blown patterns, even when shooting rapid doubles.

Handling the shotgun felt natural; the choke tube itself is flush-mounted, which contributed to a clean line from receiver to barrel. There was no snagging or discomfort when cycling the action. The included choke wrench was also a handy addition, making adjustments straightforward and secure.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and hundreds of rounds, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder has proven itself to be incredibly reliable. It has been exposed to light dust, occasional dampness from early morning dew, and the general grime of a busy shooting range without any noticeable degradation in performance. The 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel has resisted any signs of rust or significant wear.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick clean with a standard choke tube brush and some CLP after each shooting session is all it takes. The threads remain clean, and the choke still threads in and out with the same satisfying precision as the day I first installed it. Compared to some basic, non-treated steel chokes I’ve used in the past, this Carlson’s model feels like it’s built to last a lifetime.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder comes with a set of specifications designed for optimal performance in sporting clay disciplines. It is constructed from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, a material chosen for its strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. The choke is designed specifically for SKB Competition Choke systems, ensuring a precise fit for compatible firearms.

Its 12-gauge designation and Cylinder choke type mean it provides an unimpeded bore diameter, resulting in a wide, open pattern. The stated 0.735 in diameter is consistent with a true cylinder bore, ideal for fast-flushing targets. It is a non-ported design, which contributes to a quieter shooting experience and a cleaner visual profile.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder excels. It delivers a predictably open and consistent pattern, which is exactly what one would expect and desire from a cylinder choke for sporting clays. This is critical for breaking clay pigeons at close to medium ranges without over-choking the target.

The main strength of this choke tube lies in its reliable performance across different ammunition types suitable for clay shooting. Its main limitation, inherent to its design, is that it’s not intended for long-range accuracy with smaller shot sizes, but this is not its intended purpose. It more than meets expectations for its specific role.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this choke tube is functional and robust. The use of 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel provides a quality feel, and the black finish offers a non-reflective and classic appearance. It is designed to be flush-mounted within the shotgun barrel, which maintains the overall lines of the firearm without protruding.

Ergonomically, it’s a piece of equipment that you install and largely forget about, which is the highest compliment for such a component. The inclusion of a choke wrench with the single unit pack further enhances usability right out of the box. There’s no learning curve; it’s designed for straightforward installation and immediate use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel, this choke tube is built for long-term durability. Under normal shooting conditions, it should easily last for many years, if not the lifetime of the shotgun it’s installed in. Potential failure points are minimal for this type of component, with the threads being the most likely area of wear over extreme use, but even that is unlikely with proper care.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning to remove powder residue and prevent corrosion. The USA origin also speaks to a certain standard of manufacturing. Ensuring the threads are clean and lightly lubricated will guarantee smooth installation and removal for years to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder comes with a single essential accessory: a choke wrench. This tool is instrumental for proper installation and removal, especially after firing. Being a dedicated choke tube, customization options are limited to selecting the correct choke constriction and gauge for your specific firearm and intended use.

The fact that it’s designed for the SKB Competition Choke system means it’s not cross-compatible with other choke systems like Benelli Crio or Beretta Mobil. This specificity ensures a precise fit, but also means you’re locked into SKB-compatible shotguns.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for any shooter who owns an SKB shotgun equipped with the SKB Competition Choke system and participates in disciplines like sporting clays, skeet, or trap where an open pattern is advantageous. It’s perfect for those looking to enhance their consistency on closer targets or who simply need a reliable replacement or backup cylinder choke.

If you own a shotgun with a different choke system (e.g., Beretta, Benelli, Remington) or if your primary focus is long-range shooting or hunting larger game where tighter constrictions are needed, then this specific choke tube would not be the right fit. You would need to look for a cylinder choke compatible with your shotgun’s threading. For those with the correct SKB shotgun, I recommend pairing it with a variety of 1-ounce or 1 1/8-ounce target loads.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes SKB Comp 12ga Black Sporting Clay Cylinder stands as a testament to purpose-built firearm components. It delivers precisely what it promises: a reliable, durable, and consistent cylinder choke for SKB shotguns. The 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel construction ensures it will be a trusted part of your shooting gear for years, and its performance on the clay course is undeniable.

Considering its price point of $58.49, the value is certainly there, especially when you factor in the included choke wrench and the quality of materials. For any owner of an SKB shotgun utilizing the competition choke system, I wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube. It’s a straightforward upgrade that offers tangible improvements for clay shooting enthusiasts seeking that perfect, open pattern.