Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia Review

Here’s What I Think of the Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia

For years, the buzz around specialized shooting disciplines, particularly those mimicking the dramatic flair of certain media, has pushed manufacturers to create equipment that bridges the gap between enthusiast desire and practical performance. The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia emerged from this very niche, aiming to translate the visual and auditory impact of “BB-style” shooting into the realm of trap and skeet. As an equipment specialist who has seen my fair share of tools across diverse environments, I was intrigued by the promise of replicating such a specific performance characteristic in a commercially available choke tube. My own journey toward this particular choke tube was spurred by a desire to experiment with tighter patterning for specific close-range clay targets, where the usual options felt either too open or too restrictive. Initial impressions upon unboxing revealed a solidly constructed component; the stainless steel build felt robust, and the black finish was uniform and pleasing to the eye. I had considered a few generic aftermarket chokes and even contemplated using a fixed choke barrel, but the idea of a specialized, ported design from a reputable maker like Kicks Industries felt like the most promising avenue. My first reaction was one of pragmatic curiosity – could this choke deliver on its bold claims?

Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this choke tube took place on a familiar trap and skeet range, specifically on days with clear skies and moderate temperatures, perfect for evaluating pattern consistency without environmental interference. I fitted the Kicks Gobblin Thunder into my 20-gauge Winchester platform, ensuring a snug and secure installation, which is paramount for any choke tube. The first few shots were tentative, aiming to gauge the recoil impulse and the sound signature, which I found to be distinct and satisfyingly “thumpy” as one might expect from a ported design. Patterning tests were conducted at standard trap distances of 20-25 yards, using various 20-gauge loads – from standard field loads to slightly heavier target loads, all using #7.5 shot. The choke delivered remarkably consistent patterns, noticeably tighter than a standard Improved Cylinder or even Modified choke, which was precisely the goal for these closer targets. There were no immediate issues, no signs of looseness, and the performance was intuitive, requiring no special adjustments to my shooting technique beyond understanding the slightly different ballistic output.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the following several months, this particular choke tube became a regular fixture in my shotgun arsenal, seeing action during weekly club shoots and impromptu range sessions. Its performance remained impressively consistent across dozens of outings. The stainless steel construction proved resilient; despite being exposed to dust, occasional light moisture, and the general rigors of being handled and installed/removed, there was no discernible degradation in quality or function. Cleaning was straightforward, involving a simple bore brush and solvent followed by a light oiling, typical for any quality choke tube. Compared to some less expensive, non-ported chokes I’ve used in the past, the Gobblin Thunder demonstrated superior pattern retention and less shot deformation, likely due to its specific internal geometry and the ported design. There were no instances of loosening or any premature wear, suggesting a robust build that stands up to regular, practical use.

Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia

Specifications

The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia is a specialized choke tube designed for 20-gauge shotguns utilizing the Winchester choke tube system. Its core specification is the .560-inch diameter constriction, which falls between a typical Modified and Improved Modified choke, offering a tighter pattern than many standard options. The material is high-grade stainless steel, providing excellent durability and corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity even with frequent use. This model is specifically engineered for Winchester firearms that accept the corresponding choke tube system. A key feature is its ported design, which is intended to reduce muzzle jump and recoil, leading to a more stable follow-up shot.

The choice of 0.560-inch constriction is deliberate, aiming to create a specific pattern density for close- to mid-range shooting scenarios. This diameter is crucial because it controls the spread of the shot payload, producing tighter patterns than wider constrictions would allow. The stainless steel material is not just for durability; it also contributes to the overall weight and balance of the shotgun barrel. As a Winchester choke tube, it’s guaranteed to fit certain popular shotgun models, making installation straightforward for owners of compatible firearms. The ported design is a performance enhancement, actively managing gas pressure to smooth out the shooting experience.

Performance & Functionality

In practice, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder choke tube performs admirably in its intended role of producing tighter patterns at moderate distances. The .560-inch diameter consistently delivers denser shot strings, which translates to more reliable hits on targets that might otherwise be missed with a more open choke. This improved pattern density is most noticeable on clay targets at the typical 20-25 yard range for skeet and certain trap disciplines. The ported design also contributes positively to the shooting experience by noticeably reducing felt recoil and muzzle flip, allowing for quicker acquisition of subsequent targets without significant disruption to the shooter’s sight picture.

Its strengths lie in its ability to deliver a predictable and tight pattern, making it an excellent choice for shooters who want enhanced performance at closer ranges without moving to a significantly more restrictive choke. The performance meets and, in many cases, exceeds expectations for a specialized choke tube in this price range. The only potential weakness is that its specific constriction might be too tight for extremely close targets, potentially causing some peripheral misses if not used within its optimal range, though this is more a matter of user application than a flaw in the choke itself.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Kicks Industries choke tube is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The stainless steel construction provides a solid, premium feel, and the matte black finish is understated yet professional, blending well with most shotgun barrels. The knurled exterior near the muzzle end aids in grip, making installation and removal easier, even with slightly gloved hands. The internal geometry, including the ported design, is meticulously engineered to influence shot release and gas management without compromising the structural integrity of the tube.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be a drop-in replacement, and its standard dimensions mean it feels like a natural extension of the shotgun barrel. There’s no learning curve associated with its use; it simply screws into the appropriate shotgun receiver and functions as intended. The markings on the choke tube are clear and easy to read, indicating gauge and constriction, which is crucial for quick identification. The overall build quality suggests a product built for performance and durability, a hallmark of well-regarded firearm components.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia is built for longevity. The stainless steel material is inherently resistant to wear and corrosion, meaning that with basic care, it should provide reliable service for many years. During my extended testing, I noticed no signs of stress, deformation, or premature wear, even when swapping it out for other chokes during range days. It’s designed to withstand the pressures and heat generated by standard shotgun ammunition.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only routine cleaning to remove fouling after shooting sessions. A quick clean with a bore snake or a brush and solvent, followed by a light application of gun oil, is sufficient to keep it in pristine condition. There are no complex parts or mechanisms to worry about; it’s a solid piece of machined metal. The main concern would be cross-threading during installation or dropping it onto a hard surface, which could potentially damage the threads, but this is true for any threaded component.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular product, the Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia, is a standalone component and does not typically come with additional accessories. Its primary function is as a choke tube for specific shotgun models. However, its design allows for compatibility with standard choke tube wrenches and installation tools that are widely available. As it’s a Winchester choke tube, it is designed to fit firearms utilizing that specific threading system.

While there are no direct “customization options” for the choke tube itself in terms of altering its constriction or porting, the broader concept of customization comes into play with shotgun platforms. The ability to swap out chokes like this one allows the shooter to tailor their firearm’s performance to different shooting disciplines or target distances. This interchangeability is a key feature of modern shotguns, and this Kicks Industries model fits seamlessly into that modular system.

Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia

Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for trap and skeet shooters who frequently engage targets at moderate ranges (approximately 20-30 yards) and are looking for enhanced pattern density and control. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate the subtle benefits of reduced muzzle climb and recoil, enabling quicker target acquisition for subsequent shots. If you own a 20-gauge shotgun compatible with the Winchester choke tube system and are seeking a specialized choke to improve consistency for specific clay shooting disciplines, this model is a strong contender.

Conversely, shooters who primarily engage targets at very close distances (under 15 yards) or those who require a more open pattern for wider coverage might find this constriction less ideal. Furthermore, individuals with shotguns that do not accept the Winchester choke system will need to look elsewhere. For those needing a general-purpose choke or one for very long-range shooting, other constrictions might be more appropriate. A recommended accessory would be a good quality choke tube wrench and a small carrying case to protect it when not in use, ensuring its longevity and ease of identification.

Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia

The Kicks Industries Kicks Gobblin Thunder 20ga Win Choke .560 Dia is a well-engineered piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of enhanced pattern performance and a smoother shooting experience. Its .560-inch diameter offers a distinct advantage for specific shooting scenarios, providing that desirable tighter pattern without venturing into overly restrictive territory. The stainless steel build and ported design underscore its quality and thoughtful engineering, making it a durable and effective addition to any compatible 20-gauge shotgun.

Considering its performance benefits, especially for competitive clay target sports, the price point of $51.05 feels justified. It represents a solid investment for shooters looking to fine-tune their shotgun’s performance for specific applications. I would confidently recommend this choke tube to the discerning trap or skeet shooter who understands the nuances of choke selection and seeks a reliable, high-performing option for moderate-range targets. If you fit this description, this Kicks Industries choke is certainly worth adding to your gear.