My Honest Thoughts on the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .560
As someone who has spent over a decade deeply immersed in the practical application of gear across diverse environments – from rugged outdoor expeditions and demanding workshop projects to precise laboratory work and challenging field operations – I approach new equipment with a critical, experience-hardened eye. The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .560 arrived with promises of flawless performance and specialized design, fitting a specific need that had arisen in my personal firearms collection. My existing choke tubes, while functional, were beginning to show their age and limitations, particularly when I aimed for tighter patterns at longer ranges with my 20-gauge shotgun.
I was looking for a choke that offered more than just constriction; I needed something that could genuinely enhance shot dispersion and pellet energy downrange, a subtle but crucial distinction for responsible shooting. The allure of American-sourced stainless steel and the emphasis on precision laser etching immediately caught my attention, suggesting a commitment to quality often missing in mass-produced alternatives. While I briefly considered a generic extended choke, the specific design philosophy of this Kicks Industries model, particularly its integration of what they term “SDV Technology,” felt more aligned with my pursuit of optimal ballistic performance. Upon unboxing, my first impression was one of solid engineering; the weight felt substantial, and the blackened finish was uniform and professional, without any visible machining marks or imperfections.
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .560 took place at a familiar outdoor range, specifically targeting clay pigeons at distances pushing the effective range of standard 20-gauge loads. I opted for a mid-weight bismuth load, a common choice for upland game and a good test of constriction. Installation was straightforward; the choke threaded smoothly into my Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon, seating flush as advertised, with no signs of cross-threading or excessive force required. The tactile feel of the knurled exterior provided excellent grip for hand-tightening, a small but appreciated detail that speaks to user-centric design.
During the session, I observed a noticeable improvement in pattern density at 40 yards compared to my previous extended modified choke. The shot seemed to hold together more cohesively, translating to fewer flyers and tighter clusters on the target clays. Even with repeated firing and the natural heat buildup in the barrel, the choke maintained its position without any loosening, a testament to its secure fit and robust construction. The extra full ported design also seemed to contribute to a slightly softer recoil impulse, a welcome bonus that allowed for quicker follow-up shots without sacrificing comfort or control.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of several months, this Kicks Industries Gobblin Thunder choke tube has become a permanent fixture in my 20-gauge shotgun, seeing regular use during dove season, practice sessions, and even a few turkey hunts. Its performance has remained remarkably consistent, with no degradation in pattern quality or any signs of structural compromise. I’ve subjected it to everything from dusty field conditions to the occasional unexpected rain shower, and the American sourced stainless steel has held up beautifully, showing no rust or significant scuffing.
Cleaning is also a breeze; a simple CLP and a nylon brush are all that’s needed to keep the interior and exterior pristine. Unlike some other extended chokes I’ve used in the past, the ported section has not become a nuisance to clean, nor has it accumulated excessive fouling. When compared to some of the less expensive, non-ported extended chokes I’ve encountered, this model clearly stands out. Its ability to deliver consistently tighter patterns at range, combined with its durable construction and ease of maintenance, makes it a significant upgrade over more basic options.
Specifications
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .560 is a testament to focused engineering and high-quality materials, designed specifically for Beretta and Benelli Mobil choke systems. Its .560 constriction is engineered to leverage what Kicks Industries calls SDV Technology, aiming to optimize shot pellet energy and pattern consistency. This specific constriction falls within the Extra Full category, providing a significantly tighter pattern than standard fixed chokes or more open interchangeable options.
The choke is constructed from premium, American sourced Stainless Steel, ensuring excellent corrosion resistance and long-term durability. It features an extended design, measuring 5.85 inches in length, with the extended portion sitting flush with the rear of the shotgun barrel for a smooth and streamlined profile. The constriction is precisely marked with laser etching, providing clear and durable identification of its specifications. This robust construction and precise engineering mean that the choke is designed for maximum performance and reliability across various shooting disciplines.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of pure performance, the Kicks Industries Gobblin Thunder choke tube excels at its primary function: delivering consistent and tight shot patterns. Whether I was sending bismuth loads for upland birds or specialized slugs for closer-range precision, the results were consistently impressive. The .560 constriction, when paired with appropriate loads, creates a dense pattern that significantly increases effective range and the probability of a clean hit, especially crucial for smaller game or at the edge of visual range.
The ported design plays a subtle but important role, not only reducing muzzle jump for quicker follow-up shots but also contributing to a more even pellet distribution by managing gas pressure more effectively. While it’s an “Extra Full” choke, meaning it’s designed for maximum constriction, it doesn’t unduly deform the pellets, a common issue with poorly designed chokes that can lead to erratic patterns. This choke truly shines in its ability to achieve dense patterns without sacrificing shot integrity, making it a reliable performer across a variety of challenging shooting scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Gobblin Thunder choke emphasizes both functionality and subtle aesthetics. The blackened finish is not only visually appealing, offering a matte, non-reflective surface that blends well with shotgun barrels, but it also provides an additional layer of protection against wear and tear. The extended portion, which lays flush with the rear of the gun, is meticulously machined and contributes to a clean, integrated look rather than appearing as an add-on.
Ergonomically, the knurled grip on the extended section is perfectly spaced and provides sufficient purchase for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands or when the choke is slightly fouled. The laser-etched markings for constriction are crisp and easy to read, a practical touch that avoids the common issue of painted markings that can wear off with use. Overall, the build quality feels exceptional, demonstrating a level of attention to detail that inspires confidence in its long-term performance and handling.
Durability & Maintenance
Built from American sourced Stainless Steel, the Kicks Industries Gobblin Thunder choke tube is designed for longevity and resilience in demanding environments. After extended use, I’ve observed no signs of cracking, deformation, or loss of material, even from rigorous field applications. The ported sections remain clear of excessive carbon buildup with routine cleaning, and the threads have maintained their smooth engagement without any signs of galling or wear.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving periodic cleaning with a standard bore solvent and a nylon brush, followed by a light application of gun oil. Given its solid stainless steel construction, it’s robust enough to withstand accidental drops or minor impacts that might damage lesser chokes. There are no complex parts to worry about; it’s a simple, robust piece of engineering that’s built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .560 comes as a standalone choke tube, with no additional accessories included in the package. However, its strength lies in its compatibility with the widely adopted Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tube system. This means it seamlessly integrates with shotguns utilizing this specific standard, requiring no specialized adapters or tools beyond a choke tube wrench (though hand-tightening is often sufficient for most applications).
While there are no inherent customization options for the choke tube itself, its design is intended to be the final piece in a shooter’s setup. The blackened finish complements most shotgun aesthetics, and its flush-fitting extended design means it doesn’t interfere with aftermarket barrels or scopes if one were to use them on a compatible shotgun platform. The true “customization” it offers is the ability to fine-tune the shotgun’s ballistic performance to match specific ammunition and shooting scenarios.
Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .560
Pros
- Exceptional pattern density at extended ranges due to the precise .560 constriction and SDV Technology.
- Constructed from durable, corrosion-resistant American sourced Stainless Steel for long-term reliability.
- Extended, flush-fitting design offers a sleek profile and easy hand-tightening grip.
- Ported barrel helps reduce muzzle jump and can contribute to a softer recoil impulse.
- Laser etched markings are clear, durable, and resistant to wear.
Cons
- As an Extra Full choke, it requires careful load selection to avoid excessive pattern loss.
- No included accessories or choke tube wrench, meaning users might need to purchase these separately if they don’t already own them.
- Higher price point compared to some basic or non-ported extended choke tubes.
Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .560?
This Kicks Industries choke tube is an excellent choice for serious 20-gauge shotgunners who prioritize maximizing their effective range and pattern performance. It’s ideal for hunters pursuing small game like turkeys, where precise shot placement at distance is critical, or for sporting clays enthusiasts looking to improve their scores with tighter patterns. Shooters who own Beretta or Benelli shotguns with the Mobil choke system and are seeking a significant upgrade in ballistic performance would find this model particularly beneficial.
However, casual shotgun users or those who primarily shoot at very close ranges might find the Extra Full constriction and associated cost to be overkill. If you primarily use your shotgun for skeet, trap, or very close-quarters hunting, a more open choke might be a better fit. For those who do opt for this choke, pairing it with high-quality ammunition specifically designed for tight patterns is highly recommended to fully unlock its potential.
Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .560
The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Beretta/benelli Mobil .560 is, without question, a premium upgrade for any compatible 20-gauge shotgun. Its robust construction, precise engineering, and noticeable impact on pattern performance justify its price tag for those who demand the best from their equipment. The combination of American sourced Stainless Steel, meticulous laser etching, and advanced SDV Technology delivers a product that not only performs flawlessly but also inspires confidence through its sheer quality.
For the discerning shooter who understands the nuances of choke tube performance and seeks to extend the effective range and consistency of their 20-gauge, this choke tube is an easy recommendation. It’s a tool that enhances precision and reliability, making those challenging shots more attainable. If you are invested in optimizing your shotgun’s performance for specific hunting or shooting disciplines and own a Beretta or Benelli with the Mobil choke system, this Kicks Industries Gobblin Thunder choke is an investment that will undoubtedly pay dividends in tighter patterns and greater success in the field.