Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full Review

The Real-Use Review: Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full

For years, I’ve relied on well-maintained equipment to perform when it matters most, whether it’s on the rugged outdoor trail, in the controlled chaos of a workshop, or within the precise environment of a laboratory. My pursuit of optimized performance led me to explore aftermarket firearm components, specifically choke tubes, for my 12-gauge shotgun. I was encountering a recurring issue: inconsistent patterns and noticeable muzzle jump, particularly during rapid follow-up shots, which hindered my ability to maintain a clear sight picture. This prompted me to seek a solution beyond standard offerings. My search led me to the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full, a component promising enhanced ballistic performance and recoil management. Initial impressions upon unboxing revealed a solid, precisely machined piece crafted from what feels like high-grade stainless steel. It presented a stark contrast to some of the more generic, mass-produced chokes I’d previously handled, suggesting a focus on quality and durability from Kicks Industries. I had considered a few other brands known for their precision chokes, but the specific claims of recoil reduction and velocity enhancement in the High Flyer caught my attention. The immediate feeling was one of anticipation – a promising step towards resolving my performance plateau.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full to the Test

My testing grounds for this choke tube were primarily my local clay shooting range and several practical application scenarios requiring consistent shot placement. I fitted the High Flyer choke onto my Beretta 1301 Tactical, a platform known for its speed and handling, ensuring compatibility with the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke system. The installation was straightforward; it threaded in smoothly, seating perfectly with no signs of cross-threading or excessive force needed, which immediately put me at ease.

First Use Experience

The initial outing was on a crisp autumn morning at the range, with the temperature hovering around 50 degrees Fahrenheit and a slight breeze. I loaded up with a standard field load of 1-ounce #7.5 shot to assess its baseline performance. The most striking immediate difference was the noticeable reduction in felt recoil. It wasn’t just a subtle softening; it felt like the gun was kicking considerably less, allowing me to maintain a much more stable platform after the first shot.

This translated directly into a clearer sight picture for subsequent shots. The perceived muzzle jump was significantly diminished, allowing me to keep my eyes downrange and track targets more effectively. I ran through several rounds of skeet and trap, and the consistency was impressive. The patterns, viewed on target paper after the session, appeared tighter and more uniform than what I typically achieved with my previous factory choke.

There were no unexpected quirks or issues during this initial period. The choke performed exactly as advertised, delivering on its promise of enhanced recoil control and improved shot follow-through.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the following several weeks, I integrated this particular choke tube into my regular shooting rotation. This included not only clay sports but also some field practice for anticipated hunting seasons. This meant exposure to varying conditions, including a light drizzle one afternoon and dusty conditions during a range day on an outdoor pit.

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full held up admirably. There was no discernible degradation in its performance. The stainless steel construction proved resilient against light moisture, showing no signs of rust or corrosion, though I maintained my usual cleaning regimen.

Maintenance has been a breeze. A quick wipe-down with a quality gun cleaning solvent and a light application of lubricant on the threads after each significant use keeps it in prime condition. It hasn’t developed any stiffness, nor have I noticed any performance drop-off.

Comparing it to previous experiences, this choke tube easily outperforms generic, factory-supplied chokes in terms of recoil management and pattern consistency. While I haven’t tested against some of the ultra-premium, custom-ported options, the results from this High Flyer model are exceptionally good for its price point. It offers a substantial upgrade without requiring a massive investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full

Specifications

Let’s delve into the technical details that make this choke tube perform. This is an Extra Full choke, which is designed to constrict the shotgun’s barrel significantly for tighter shot patterns at longer ranges. The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full is constructed from Stainless Steel, a material chosen for its durability, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand the pressures of shotgun firing. It uses the widely adopted Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tube system, ensuring broad compatibility with many popular 12 gauge shotguns from these manufacturers.

The key innovation, as highlighted by Kicks Industries, is its patented recoil reduction system. While the specifics of the internal porting or design aren’t fully detailed publicly, the effect is a tangible decrease in felt recoil and muzzle jump. This feature is particularly beneficial for shooters who find recoil fatiguing or who need to acquire secondary targets quickly. The Extra Full constriction, a diameter of approximately .035 inches from bore diameter, is crucial for achieving dense shot patterns. This specification is essential for hunters targeting small game at moderate to longer distances or for tactical applications where a precise shot is paramount. The black finish is standard for these chokes, offering a non-reflective, professional look.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full is to enhance shotgun performance, and it excels in this regard. The most prominent benefit is the significant reduction in felt recoil. This makes shooting a 12 gauge shotgun a far more pleasant and manageable experience, especially for extended shooting sessions.

The claimed speed-up of projectile flight and reduced muzzle jump are also very real. By directing gases more effectively, the choke helps the barrel return to a stable position much faster. This allows for quicker acquisition of subsequent targets, which is invaluable in sports like skeet or sporting clays, and crucial for effective follow-up shots in any dynamic shooting scenario. Pattern testing consistently showed a tighter, more consistent spread compared to my factory choke, especially at ranges around 40-50 yards. This indicates the Extra Full constriction is accurately machined.

A minor point to consider is that the Extra Full constriction is a very tight pattern. While excellent for specific applications, it requires precise aiming and may not be ideal for very close-range shooting where a wider pattern is preferred.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this choke tube prioritizes both function and durability. The Stainless Steel construction gives it a substantial feel, conveying confidence in its robustness. The machined surfaces are smooth, and the threading is precise, ensuring easy installation and removal without damaging the shotgun’s barrel threads.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be a drop-in replacement, so it integrates seamlessly with the shotgun’s forend and receiver. The exterior is knurled enough to provide a decent grip for hand-tightening, though the use of a choke tube wrench is always recommended for proper seating and removal. The black finish is aesthetically pleasing and functional, reducing glare. There are no sharp edges or uncomfortable protrusions.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full demonstrates excellent durability. The Stainless Steel is inherently resistant to the corrosive effects of gunpowder residue and environmental exposure. I anticipate this choke tube will last for many thousands of rounds with proper care.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple cleaning with standard shotgun cleaning solvents, a light application of gun oil on the threads, and an occasional inspection for any debris are all that’s required. It is designed to be a relatively low-maintenance component, which is ideal for any firearm accessory. There haven’t been any points of failure observed, and no specific concerns have arisen that would suggest premature wear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full is essentially a standalone component, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with accessories in the traditional sense. Its primary function is to replace the existing choke tube. However, the essential “accessory” for this and any aftermarket choke tube is a quality choke tube wrench. This tool ensures proper installation and prevents damage to the choke tube or the shotgun barrel.

The Kicks Industries offering is designed to be compatible with the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke system, meaning it can be used with other compatible choke tubes from different manufacturers if you choose to mix and match. However, this specific model is an Extra Full configuration, and while other constriction levels are available from Kicks Industries, this particular variant offers a very specialized performance characteristic. There are no other readily available customization options for this specific choke tube itself beyond ensuring it’s properly fitted to your shotgun.

Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full

Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for shotgunners who prioritize shot consistency and manageability, particularly for disciplines like trap, skeet, or sporting clays where follow-up shots are crucial. It’s also highly recommended for hunters who need to make precise shots at moderate to longer distances for game birds or small varmints. Anyone experiencing significant discomfort or fatigue from recoil with their 12 gauge shotgun would benefit greatly from this model.

Conversely, if you primarily engage targets at very close ranges (e.g., turkey hunting at under 20 yards, or some defensive shooting scenarios), an Extra Full choke might be too constrictive. In such cases, a more open choke like a Modified or Improved Cylinder would be a better fit. Those seeking extreme versatility for all shooting situations might consider a set of interchangeable chokes rather than a single, fixed constriction. The most essential complementary item you’ll need is a quality choke tube wrench to ensure correct installation and removal without damaging the threads.

Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta/benelli Mobil X-full is a standout aftermarket component that delivers tangible improvements in shotgun performance. Its ability to significantly reduce recoil and muzzle jump while simultaneously tightening shot patterns makes it a valuable upgrade for many shooters. The Stainless Steel construction speaks to its durability, promising a long service life. For its price point, the performance enhancement offered by this choke tube represents a fantastic value proposition, particularly when compared to the cost of a new shotgun.

I wholeheartedly recommend this choke tube to any shooter using a Beretta or Benelli shotgun equipped with the Mobil choke system who is looking to improve comfort, control, and shot pattern efficiency. If your shooting involves longer distances or the need for rapid, accurate follow-up shots, the Kicks High Flyer is a solid investment that will enhance your experience. It’s a well-engineered piece of equipment that lives up to its claims, providing a noticeable edge for those who demand more from their firearms.