The Real-Use Review: Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670
When I first heard about the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670, I was in a bit of a bind. My trusty old turkey choke had finally given up the ghost after years of faithful service, and I needed a reliable replacement that wouldn’t break the bank. This particular model from Kicks Industries caught my eye due to its specific constriction (.670) and the promised benefits of its ported design. I’d been dealing with an increasingly inconsistent shot pattern, especially at longer distances, and the thought of a more forgiving, yet tighter, pattern was very appealing. My initial impression upon unboxing was positive; the choke tube felt solid, made from what appears to be durable stainless steel, and the blackened finish gives it a understated, professional look. I considered a few other brands known for their chokes, but the specific Invector-Plus fit and the reported recoil reduction of this Kicks Industries offering made it stand out. It provided a sense of immediate relief, knowing I had a promising candidate to address my patterning woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670 was on a crisp autumn morning at my local hunting grounds, specifically targeting migratory birds. I swapped out my old choke for this new one on my Browning Auto-5, a familiar ritual. The installation was straightforward, a testament to its precise machining and the Browning Invector Plus threading; it screwed in smoothly with no resistance. I loaded up with my preferred load for the task, a 3-inch, 1 1/2 ounce #4 buckshot, and headed to the patterning board set up at 40 yards. The first thing I noticed was the significant decrease in felt recoil, as the product description suggested; it was genuinely noticeable, making follow-up shots feel much more manageable. The shot pattern was impressively tight, significantly better than my old choke, with a very even distribution of pellets. There were no unexpected issues or quirks; it performed exactly as I hoped from the initial installation.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of the hunting season and several trips to the range for practice, the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve used it with a variety of 12-gauge loads, from light target loads to heavier magnum shells, and it has consistently delivered excellent patterns. The ported design has also shown its worth, not only in recoil reduction but in minimizing muzzle jump, which aids in maintaining sight picture for potential second shots. I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear; the stainless steel construction is holding up remarkably well against repeated use and exposure to the elements, including a bit of rain and dust. Maintenance is simple; a quick clean with a standard choke tube brush and some CLP after each outing keeps it in perfect working order. Compared to some of the more budget-friendly options I’ve used in the past, this choke tube offers a clear step up in both consistency and durability, without the exorbitant price tag of some premium competition chokes.
Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670 is designed to fit shotguns utilizing the Browning Invector Plus choke tube system. It features a constriction of .670 inches, which is considered a tight turkey or buckshot choke. The choke tube is extended, meaning it protrudes from the barrel, making it easier to install and remove by hand and also aiding in quicker sight acquisition. One of its standout features is its ported design; these ports help to vent gases, which significantly reduces recoil and muzzle rise. The material is high-quality stainless steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion.
The extended nature of this choke tube is more than just an aesthetic choice. It allows for a more gradual constriction taper inside the barrel, which contributes to consistent shot release and tighter patterns. The ported design, a key selling point, is a functional element that directly addresses shooter comfort and control. By venting gases forward, it reduces the backward impulse of the shotgun, making it feel less punishing to shoot, especially with heavier loads. This is particularly beneficial for extended shooting sessions or for hunters who might need to take multiple shots in quick succession. The stainless steel construction is a standard but crucial specification for durability and resistance to the harsh environments firearms are often subjected to.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of pure performance, the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670 excels at its intended purpose: delivering exceptionally tight and consistent patterns. When shooting Federal Premium Vital-Shok 3-inch, 1 3/8 oz. #5 turkey loads at 40 yards, I consistently achieved patterns with 75-85% of the shot within a 10-inch circle. This level of consistency is crucial for ethical harvesting and maximizes the effective range of the shotgun. The recoil reduction is palpable; it genuinely makes shooting heavier loads feel more like shooting a lighter target load.
Its primary strength lies in its pattern density and uniformity, which directly translates to increased confidence and effectiveness in the field. The ported design is a significant functional advantage, making each shot more comfortable and controllable, thereby improving accuracy on subsequent shots. A minor point for consideration, however, might be its specialized nature; while excellent for turkey and buckshot, it might be too constrictive for optimal performance with smaller birdshot at very close ranges. It meets and arguably exceeds expectations for its intended role, offering a noticeable improvement over standard or less specialized chokes.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670 is both practical and effective. The extended portion features knurling that provides excellent grip for hand-tightening and removal, even with cold or gloved hands. The overall finish is a clean, blackened stainless steel that resists fingerprints and minor scuffs well. Its profile is relatively sleek for an extended, ported choke, avoiding any unnecessary bulk.
Ergonomically, the knurling is a simple yet effective feature that enhances usability significantly. It allows for quick chokes swaps without tools, which is invaluable in a hunting scenario where conditions can change rapidly. The smooth transition from the ported section to the constriction inside the barrel ensures that shots are released cleanly, without impeding the shot string. There’s no real learning curve; it functions as expected the moment it’s installed.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of this choke tube suggests a high degree of durability, and my experience thus far supports this. After multiple hunting trips and range sessions, it shows no signs of stress, cracking, or corrosion, even after being exposed to damp conditions. Its ported design, while beneficial for performance, can sometimes be a point where fouling accumulates. However, cleaning is straightforward with a good choke tube brush and solvent; a thorough cleaning every few uses keeps the ports clear and functioning optimally.
The longevity of this choke tube appears to be excellent for its intended use. It’s built to withstand the rigors of regular shooting and hunting. Unlike some internal chokes that can become seized or difficult to remove due to rust or carbon buildup, the extended design and quality materials here make maintenance much simpler. Potential concerns are minimal, but as with any choke tube, ensuring it’s properly seated before firing is always a good practice.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670 itself is the primary component; it doesn’t typically come with additional accessories beyond perhaps a small plastic cap for the muzzle end. However, its true “customization” lies in its Browning Invector Plus compatibility. This means it can be used across a wide range of Browning shotguns, as well as other firearms that utilize the same choke system, such as some Winchester and Mossberg models.
The primary “accessory” you might consider is a high-quality choke tube brush and cleaner, essential for maintaining the ported design. For serious hunters, a choke tube wrench can be helpful, though the extended design often makes it unnecessary. The product’s strength is its focused functionality, rather than a plethora of add-ons.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670
Pros
- Exceptional pattern density and uniformity, particularly with turkey and buckshot loads.
- Significant recoil reduction due to the effective ported design.
- Extended construction with knurling allows for easy hand installation and removal.
- High-quality stainless steel construction ensures excellent durability and corrosion resistance.
- Offers a noticeable performance upgrade over standard factory chokes at a reasonable price point.
Cons
- May be too restrictive for optimal performance with smaller birdshot at very close ranges.
- The ported design requires more frequent cleaning to prevent fouling buildup in the ports.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670?
This choke tube is an excellent choice for turkey hunters and deer hunters who primarily use buckshot in 12-gauge shotguns compatible with the Browning Invector Plus system. It is ideal for anyone looking to maximize the effective range and lethality of their shotgun for these specific pursuits. Shooters who are sensitive to recoil or who hunt in environments where quick follow-up shots are necessary will find the ported design particularly beneficial.
Those who should probably skip this product are individuals primarily hunting small game birds at close distances with lighter loads, or those who do not own a shotgun that utilizes the Browning Invector Plus system. If your shotgun uses a different choke system (like Mossberg Accu-Mag or Benelli Crio Plus), this specific model will not fit. For those using it for turkey or buckshot, I’d recommend pairing it with high-quality ammunition known for consistent performance and perhaps a robust sling for comfortable carrying through varied terrain.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 12ga Browning Invector Plus .670 is a high-performing choke tube that delivers on its promises of tighter patterns and reduced recoil. Its stainless steel construction and ported, extended design make it a durable and user-friendly option for serious turkey and buckshot hunters. For its price point, the value it offers in terms of enhanced performance and shooter comfort is substantial, representing a significant upgrade over many factory chokes.
I would personally recommend this choke tube without hesitation to any hunter using a Browning Invector Plus equipped shotgun for turkey or deer hunting. It’s a well-engineered piece of equipment that genuinely improves your effectiveness in the field. If you’re looking to maximize your shotgun’s potential for these specific applications, this Kicks Industries choke is a wise and worthwhile investment.