Was the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660 the Right Choice?
For years, my Benelli shotgun has been a reliable companion, but I was always chasing that extra edge, particularly for the fast-paced world of 3-gun competitions and demanding upland bird hunts. The standard chokes, while functional, felt a bit like leaving performance on the table. I’d heard whispers and seen the results of aftermarket chokes, and the promise of improved pattern density and recoil management was too tempting to ignore. After poring over options, the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660 stood out. It promised a unique three-port design aimed at control and performance, specifically for the Benelli Crio Plus system. I considered a few other extended chokes, but the Kicks Gobblin Thunder’s specialized porting caught my eye. My initial impression upon arrival was one of solid engineering; it felt substantial and precisely machined. There was an immediate sense of curiosity, a feeling that this might indeed be the upgrade I was looking for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at the local sporting clays range and then later in the dove fields during the early season. I swapped out the standard choke on my Benelli M2 for the Kicks Gobblin Thunder, noting its flush fit and robust construction. Installation was straightforward, with no issues threading it into the barrel. On the range, the difference was immediately apparent, particularly with target loads. Recoil seemed noticeably softened, allowing for quicker follow-up shots, which is crucial in clays. The patterning itself was tighter and more consistent than I’d experienced before. In the dove field, the extended length made for easier handling and quicker sight acquisition in those fast, unpredictable shots. I did notice a slight increase in muzzle blast with heavier loads, but this was expected given the porting.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of several months, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder has become a permanent fixture on my Benelli. It has endured countless rounds at the range, dusty days in the field, and even a few accidental drops onto softer ground without any noticeable ill effects. The stainless steel construction has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of rust or significant wear. Cleaning is as simple as removing the choke and running a brush through it, just like any other choke tube. Compared to the factory chokes and a couple of other aftermarket extended options I’ve used in the past, this Kicks Industries model feels more refined. It consistently delivers excellent patterns without any of the stringing or erratic results I’ve sometimes encountered with less-quality tubes.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660 is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring durability and corrosion resistance across various environments. It is designed specifically for the Benelli Crio Plus choke tube system, guaranteeing a precise fit with compatible Benelli firearms. The choke features an extended design, measuring 1.05 inches in overall height, which aids in grip for quicker changes and easier visual reference. Its defining characteristic is the three-port design, engineered to reduce recoil and muzzle jump for improved control. The specific constriction is a .660 diameter, offering a tight but versatile pattern suitable for various shooting disciplines. The color is a blackened, black finish, providing a non-reflective and sleek appearance.
These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits for the shooter. The stainless steel material means peace of mind, whether you’re hunting in damp conditions or simply want a long-lasting product. The Benelli Crio Plus system compatibility ensures it will integrate seamlessly with your firearm, preventing any feeding or extraction issues. The extended nature isn’t just for looks; it allows for easier manipulation, especially when your hands are cold or gloved. Most importantly, the three-port design and .660 constriction work synergistically to manage recoil and tighten patterns. This means faster target acquisition on subsequent shots and denser, more effective shot clouds downrange. Compared to standard flush-mount chokes, this extended and ported model offers a clear performance advantage.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of performance, the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660 truly excels at its intended job of enhancing shotgun performance. Its primary function – delivering tighter, more consistent shot patterns – is flawlessly executed. Whether I was shooting skeet, sporting clays, or engaging fast-flying dove, the patterns were remarkably uniform and dense. The recoil reduction is also significant; it makes a noticeable difference, especially when firing a series of shots rapidly. This allows for better control and quicker recovery for follow-up shots.
The strengths of this choke are its impressive pattern control and the tangible recoil mitigation it provides. The combination leads to increased confidence and accuracy in the field or at the range. A minor weakness, inherent to most ported chokes, is a slight increase in perceived muzzle blast, though this is a small trade-off for the performance gains. It consistently meets and often exceeds expectations, particularly when considering its price point relative to the performance uplift.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this choke tube is immediately apparent. The blackened, black stainless steel finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, resisting scratches and wear. It feels incredibly solid and precisely machined, with no rough edges or imperfections. The extended portion provides a substantial grip, making it easy to thread in and out of the shotgun barrel, even with cold or wet hands.
Ergonomically, it’s a winner. The knurled exterior on the extended section offers excellent purchase, and its length makes it easy to manipulate without fumbling. The flush-fit design when installed ensures it doesn’t interfere with handling or concealment if the firearm is cased. There was no real learning curve; it functions exactly as expected from the moment it’s installed.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660 is built for longevity. Given its stainless steel construction and robust porting, I expect it to last for many years of regular use. There are no obvious points of failure, and the design is straightforward.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down after each shooting session, along with occasional cleaning of the interior ports with a choke brush and solvent, is all that’s required to keep it performing at its best. I haven’t encountered any issues like carbon buildup that affects performance or any signs of the material degrading.
Accessories and Customization Options
This specific product is a choke tube and, as such, doesn’t come with a host of accessories. However, its primary customization aspect lies in its specific constriction and porting. For users of compatible Benelli shotguns, it serves as a direct upgrade. Kicks Industries does offer a range of other choke options, allowing for further customization of shotgun patterns if different constrictions are desired for specific shooting applications. The Benelli Crio Plus system itself is a standard, meaning this choke is compatible with all firearms designed for that specific system.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660
Pros
- Significantly tighter and more consistent shot patterns compared to standard factory chokes.
- Noticeable reduction in felt recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and less fatigue.
- Durable stainless steel construction built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Extended design provides excellent grip for easy installation and removal.
- Three-port system effectively manages muzzle jump and recoil.
Cons
- Slightly increased muzzle blast due to the porting, which is typical for this design.
- Only compatible with Benelli Crio Plus systems; not a universal fit.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660?
This choke is an ideal choice for serious shotgun enthusiasts who own compatible Benelli shotguns and are looking to optimize their performance. It’s particularly well-suited for competitive shooters in disciplines like 3-gun or tactical shotgun, where rapid follow-up shots and precise patterns are paramount. Upland bird hunters, especially those pursuing fast-flying game like dove or quail, will also appreciate the improved control and patterning.
Those who should probably skip this product are owners of Benelli shotguns that do not use the Crio Plus system, as it simply won’t fit. Additionally, if you are extremely sensitive to muzzle blast or hunt in environments where noise discipline is critical and cannot afford any increase, you might want to consider a non-ported extended choke. For enhancing your Benelli Crio Plus shotgun’s capabilities, a must-have accessory would simply be a good quality choke tube brush for maintenance.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Benelli Crio Plus .660 is a high-performance upgrade that delivers on its promises. Its stainless steel construction ensures longevity, while the innovative three-port design and .660 constriction provide tangible benefits in terms of pattern density and recoil management. For owners of Benelli shotguns equipped with the Crio Plus system, this choke tube offers exceptional value, significantly enhancing shooting experience for competitive and sporting purposes. I wholeheartedly recommend this model to anyone seeking to wring more performance out of their Benelli shotgun.