Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full Review

My Real Take on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full

For any firearm enthusiast, especially those who favor the Benelli platform, understanding how components like choke tubes and muzzle devices impact performance is crucial. I recently found myself in need of a specialized solution for my Benelli Crio Plus shotgun, specifically looking for something that could offer improved recoil management and potentially tighter shot patterns without sacrificing compatibility. This search led me to the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full. Carlson’s Choke Tubes has a reputation for producing quality shotgun accessories, and this particular model promised a blend of tactical functionality and precise constriction. I was particularly interested in its “Extra Full” designation, as I was hoping to experiment with enhanced pattern density for certain shooting disciplines. My initial impression upon unboxing was positive; the piece felt solid, with a consistent black finish that spoke of good manufacturing. While I briefly considered more generic choke tubes, the specific “Benelli Crio Plus” fitment and the integrated “tactical muzzle brake” design made this Carlson’s option stand out. A sense of anticipation and curiosity settled in, eager to see if it would deliver on its promises.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Carlson’s choke tube took place on a crisp autumn afternoon at my local outdoor range. I fitted the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full to my Benelli Crio Plus shotgun, ensuring it seated correctly within the barrel. The installation was straightforward, a testament to the precise machining expected from a reputable manufacturer. I proceeded to fire several slugs and various buckshot loads, paying close attention to felt recoil and the resulting shot patterns on a large paper target at 50 yards. The muzzle brake’s design seemed to do its job, offering a noticeable, albeit subtle, reduction in perceived muzzle rise. I didn’t encounter any immediate issues or surprises during this initial session, which is always a good sign.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the subsequent months, this choke tube has become a regular fixture on my Benelli Crio Plus, seeing action during several informal range days and a few field excursions for sporting clays. It has held up exceptionally well to repeated use, and I haven’t observed any degradation in performance. Despite exposure to dust, the occasional light moisture, and varying temperatures, the finish remains intact with no signs of rust or significant wear. Cleaning is as simple as any other choke tube – a quick brush and solvent application after a shooting session is all that’s required, and it stores easily in my shotgun’s accessory case. Compared to some older, less robust choke tubes I’ve used in the past, this Carlson’s unit exhibits superior durability and a consistently reliable performance, proving its worth beyond just its initial fitting.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full is engineered to fit specifically with Benelli shotguns utilizing the Benelli Crio/Crio Plus barrel system. This ensures a perfect, flush fit, preventing any gas leaks or inconsistencies that could affect performance. Its construction is from high-grade steel, finished in a durable Black coating that resists corrosion and wear. The Extra Full constriction designation indicates a significantly reduced bore diameter at the muzzle, designed to produce very tight shot patterns at longer ranges. While the product description doesn’t specify exact dimensions or weight, its build feels substantial and robust, typical of a tactical muzzle device. The USA origin of manufacture speaks to a certain standard of quality control and material sourcing. This particular specification is critical for ensuring optimal performance and compatibility, as using a non-specified choke can lead to dangerous malfunctions or damage to the firearm.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full performs admirably, particularly in delivering tight shot patterns. The “Extra Full” constriction genuinely constricts the shot payload significantly, resulting in impressive pattern density at distances where other chokes might start to spread too quickly. This is a significant advantage for target shooting or any application where precise shot placement at range is paramount. The tactical muzzle brake component is also effective, offering a discernible reduction in muzzle climb, which allows for faster follow-up shots. However, it’s important to note that this level of constriction can sometimes lead to increased felt recoil, especially with heavier loads, and can make cycling lighter target loads slightly less consistent. The muzzle brake’s effectiveness is evident, but the trade-off with the extreme choke needs consideration.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Carlson’s choke tube is a clear blend of tactical utility and precision constriction. The Black finish is not only aesthetically pleasing, providing a uniform look with most modern shotguns, but it also contributes to the overall durability by resisting abrasions and environmental factors. The knurled or serrated section at the muzzle end, a common feature on tactical muzzle brakes, provides a good grip for installation and removal, even with gloves on. The flush-fitting design ensures a clean profile, avoiding snag points and maintaining the shotgun’s inherent balance. While the choke itself doesn’t have complex ergonomic features in the traditional sense, its robust construction and precise fit give it a premium feel. The precision engineering is evident in how it seamlessly integrates with the Benelli Crio Plus barrel system.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full is built for longevity. The USA-made construction and the high-quality steel with a protective Black finish suggest it can withstand substantial use without succumbing to wear and tear. I have not encountered any premature failure points, such as cracks or deformation, even after firing a considerable number of rounds. Maintenance is straightforward; it requires the same care as any other choke tube. Regular cleaning with a bore solvent and a brush, followed by a light application of gun oil, is sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. There are no complex parts to worry about, making it a low-maintenance, high-reliability accessory.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full comes as a single unit, and its primary function is integrated. Therefore, there are no additional accessories included with the product itself. Customization options are also limited to its specific application: it’s designed for the Benelli Crio Plus system and the Extra Full constriction. There are no interchangeable parts or choke tubes within this particular unit. However, its compatibility with the specific Benelli Crio Plus barrel system is its key “customization” feature – it’s built to fit a particular firearm model precisely.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for dedicated Benelli Crio Plus owners who are looking to maximize their shotgun’s potential for precision shooting at longer ranges. If you frequently engage in disciplines like competitive shooting, turkey hunting, or any activity where tight, consistent patterns are paramount, then this choke will serve you exceptionally well. It’s also a strong contender for those who appreciate the added benefit of recoil mitigation provided by a muzzle brake.

However, shooters who primarily use their shotguns for skeet, trap, or general field use with lighter birdshot loads might find the Extra Full constriction too restrictive. For those users, a more open choke like Improved Cylinder or Modified would likely be a better fit. Potential buyers should also ensure they have the appropriate tools for choke tube installation and removal.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Tactical Muzzle Brake: Benelli Crio Plus, Extra Full is a high-quality, purpose-built accessory that successfully merges enhanced pattern density with recoil management for the Benelli Crio Plus platform. For the right user – one who values precision and extended range performance – this choke tube offers significant advantages. Its robust construction, precise fit, and effective performance in delivering tight patterns and reducing muzzle rise make it a worthwhile investment, justifying its price point for dedicated shooters. I would certainly recommend this particular Carlson’s choke tube to any owner of a Benelli Crio Plus shotgun who needs the extreme constriction and tactical benefits it provides. For those seeking more versatility or less restriction, however, exploring other options within Carlson’s or different choke constrictions would be advisable.