Meet the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660: First Thoughts
As a gear specialist with over a decade of putting equipment through its paces across diverse environments, I’m always on the lookout for components that offer genuine improvement and reliability. The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660 caught my eye as a potential game-changer for controlling shot patterns in my 12-gauge shotguns. My previous experience with a slightly less forgiving choke, leading to frustratingly wide spreads at crucial moments, prompted this investigation.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of robust quality. The Kicks Gobblin Thunder choke feels substantial, a far cry from lighter, more flimsy alternatives. Its blacked finish is deep and even, suggesting good material treatment. Compared to my existing standard choke tubes, this one presents a more serious, purpose-built aesthetic. This initial handling sparked a sense of anticipation, a feeling that this might indeed be the upgrade I was searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kicks Gobblin Thunder choke was at a local sporting clays course. I installed it on my Beretta 686, a shotgun I’ve owned for years and know intimately. The installation itself was smooth, the threading engaging with a satisfying click, indicating a good fit within the Mobil choke system.
I specifically tested it across a variety of stations, from close-quarters rabbit targets to longer-range simulated driven birds. The conditions were typical for a late autumn day – a bit of wind, and some light atmospheric moisture that settled on the barrels. The choke performed admirably, tightening patterns noticeably on those longer shots without overly constricting the pattern on closer birds. There was a slight learning curve in anticipating the tighter pattern, requiring a touch more focus on lead, but it was a positive adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
Weeks of regular use at the range, several more sporting clays sessions, and even a brief stint on a pheasant hunt have put the Kicks Gobblin Thunder through its paces. It has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of loosening or degradation in performance. Even after being subjected to dust from dry range conditions and the occasional drop of rain, the choke’s function remained consistent.
Durability appears to be a strong suit; the stainless steel construction lives up to its reputation for resilience. I haven’t noticed any significant wear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs from handling, which is expected. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a basic choke tube brush and solvent after each shooting session. When compared to the more basic, factory-provided chokes I’ve used in the past, this extended model offers a tangible step up in both durability and functional consistency over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660 is crafted from high-quality Stainless Steel, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of regular use. Its gauge is a standard 12 gauge, making it compatible with a wide range of popular shotguns. The choke tube system is specifically designed for Beretta/Benelli Mobil receivers, which is a critical detail for proper fit and function.
This particular model is designated as an Extra Full Ported choke, meaning it features strategically placed ports to help vent gas and reduce recoil. Its .660 constriction is quite tight, intended for very specific pattern control. The choke is also an Extended model, meaning it protrudes slightly beyond the barrel for easier removal and installation, and often provides a more consistent choke diameter compared to flush-mounted tubes. The Blackened finish provides a non-reflective surface, which is appreciated in various shooting conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of the Kicks Gobblin Thunder choke is to control the shot pattern, and it excels at this. Its .660 constriction delivers noticeably tighter patterns at longer ranges, a crucial advantage for situations requiring precise shot placement. This tight constriction means that fewer pellets are dispersed widely, concentrating the payload for greater impact energy on distant targets.
However, this level of constriction is not without its trade-offs. On closer targets, the pattern can become almost too tight, potentially causing a miss if the lead is slightly misjudged. While the ported design does offer a slight reduction in felt recoil, it’s not as pronounced as with some other ported chokes I’ve tested. This specific choke is clearly optimized for distance, and its performance reflects that singular focus.
Design & Ergonomics
From a design perspective, the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660 is built for purpose. The stainless steel construction gives it a reassuring weight and heft, contributing to its perceived durability. The extended design not only aids in handling but also visually communicates its role as a performance-enhancing component.
The knurled pattern on the extended portion provides ample grip for hand-tightening and removal, even with slightly damp hands. This is a thoughtful touch that aids usability in the field. The blackened finish is practical, offering a matte surface that won’t cause distracting glares under bright sunlight. The overall feel is one of solid engineering, designed to function reliably without unnecessary adornments.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel construction and the absence of complex moving parts, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder choke is built for longevity. Under normal shooting conditions, I anticipate this choke tube will last for many years, potentially outliving the barrel it’s currently fitted to. The material’s inherent resistance to corrosion means it should perform consistently even with minimal maintenance.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple; a quick clean with a suitable solvent and brush after shooting sessions is all that is required to keep it in top condition. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, but I would advise against dropping it on very hard surfaces like concrete, as any precision component can be susceptible to damage from impact. Its robust build suggests it’s designed for the repeated stresses of shotgun firing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660 itself is the primary component, and as such, it doesn’t come with extensive accessories. It is designed to be an integrated part of a shotgun system, rather than a standalone gadget. Its main “customization” lies in its compatibility with the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tube system.
This system allows for easy swapping with other Mobil-compatible chokes, enabling a shooter to adapt their shotgun’s pattern to various shooting disciplines or game. While Kicks Industries offers various constriction options within their lines, the Gobblin Thunder itself is a fixed-constriction tube. You would need to purchase separate tubes for different patterns.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660
Pros
- Exceptional pattern density at range: The .660 constriction delivers impressively tight patterns, ideal for distant targets.
- Robust stainless steel construction: Promises excellent durability and resistance to corrosion for long-term use.
- Easy installation and removal: The extended design and knurled grip make it user-friendly in the field.
- Beretta/Benelli Mobil compatibility: Seamlessly integrates with a wide range of popular shotgun models.
- Ported design for recoil mitigation: Offers a noticeable, albeit minor, reduction in felt recoil.
Cons
- Potentially too tight for close targets: The Extra Full constriction can result in overly tight patterns at closer distances.
- Limited versatility for varied shooting: Primarily optimized for long-range performance; may not be the best all-around choice for mixed-distance shooting.
- No included accessories: As a dedicated choke tube, it’s a single component without a kit or extras.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660?
This choke is an excellent choice for any shotgun shooter who primarily engages targets at extended ranges and desires maximum pattern concentration. It is particularly well-suited for disciplines like long-range sporting clays, turkey hunting where precise shot placement is critical, or waterfowl hunting in open fields. Shooters using Beretta or Benelli shotguns with the Mobil choke system will find it a direct and beneficial upgrade.
However, shooters who frequently encounter close-range targets, such as in dense woods or for flushing game, might find this choke too restrictive. Those looking for an all-in-one solution for varied shooting scenarios would be better served by a set of interchangeable chokes rather than a single, specialized constriction. If you own a shotgun that accepts the Mobil choke system and your focus is on extending your effective range, this is a strong contender.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660 is a high-quality, purpose-built choke tube that delivers on its promise of extended-range pattern control. Its stainless steel construction ensures longevity and reliability, while the .660 Extra Full ported design provides impressive pattern density when you need it most. While its specialized nature means it might not be the ideal choice for every shooter or every situation, for those whose primary goal is to maximize their effective range, it’s a highly recommended component.
Considering its price point of $69.79, the value proposition is strong for the performance gains offered. It represents a significant upgrade over standard factory chokes for specific applications. I would confidently recommend the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .660 to any shooter with a compatible shotgun who prioritizes precision and pattern tightness at distance. It’s a worthwhile investment for those seeking to refine their shotgun’s performance for longer shots.