Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl Review

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl Review You’ve Been Looking For

As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear across every imaginable environment – from the sterile precision of a lab bench to the gritty realities of a workshop, and out in the unforgiving embrace of the field – I’ve developed a keen sense for what works and what’s just marketing fluff. When the need arose to replace a worn-out choke tube on my Beretta 1301 Tactical, specifically seeking something compatible with the Beretta Optima Plus system, I found myself sifting through numerous options. My previous choke, a standard modified, had seen better days, and I was experiencing frustratingly inconsistent patterns on the skeet range. This led me to explore options that promised enhanced performance and pattern density, eventually landing on the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl. I considered a few other aftermarket manufacturers, but the proprietary internal geometry and the reputation of Kicks Industries for consistent results swayed my decision. My initial impression upon unboxing this unit was one of solid, no-nonsense craftsmanship. It felt substantial, the stainless steel construction promising longevity, and the black finish provided a subtle, tactical aesthetic. There was an immediate sense of relief, a feeling that I might finally have found a reliable upgrade.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl to the Test

My testing regimen began on my local sporting clays course, a mix of open fields and wooded terrain that realistically simulates hunting scenarios and competitive shooting. I focused on several shooting stations designed to test pattern density at varying ranges, from close-quarters flushing birds to longer shots at driven targets. Throughout the day, I cycled through different loads, including standard field loads, heavier 00 buckshot, and even some slugs, to gauge the choke’s versatility. The Kicks High Flyer performed admirably under the rigors of repeated firing, with no discernible loss of performance or visual wear on the stainless steel after a full day of shooting. It handled dust and light grime from the range floor without issue, cleaning up easily with a standard bore snake and solvent. Installation was remarkably straightforward; it threaded in smoothly, seating perfectly within the Beretta Optima Plus barrel without any resistance.

First Use Experience

The first outing was a revelation. I loaded up some familiar 7.5 shot shells, and from the moment I squeezed the trigger, there was a noticeable difference. The patterns were tighter and more consistent than I had experienced with my old choke, particularly at the 25-yard mark where I usually saw frustrating gaps. The Cylinder Modified constriction provided a versatile spread, proving effective for both the closer clay presentations and slightly longer shots. There were no immediate issues or surprises, just a smooth, reliable performance that immediately boosted my confidence.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the following months, this Kicks Industries choke has become a permanent fixture on my Beretta 1301. I’ve used it for everything from informal plinking at the local range to actual upland game hunting, including pheasant and quail. It has held up exceptionally well to the elements, resisting rust and maintaining its tight pattern consistency even after being exposed to damp mornings and dusty field conditions. Cleaning is simple: a quick run-through with a bore snake after each session is usually all it takes to keep it pristine. Compared to other aftermarket chokes I’ve used, including some from larger, more established brands, this unit has proven to be remarkably durable and consistent. I’ve never experienced any stringing or warping of the pattern, which was an occasional issue with previous, less robust chokes.

Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl

Specifications

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl is a testament to thoughtful engineering, designed to enhance the performance of your shotgun. It features a Cylinder Modified constriction, offering a versatile balance between spread and range, making it suitable for a variety of shooting applications. The choke is constructed from high-grade Stainless Steel, ensuring excellent resistance to corrosion and wear, which is crucial for a component exposed to firing residue and the elements. It is specifically designed for the Beretta Optima Plus choke tube system, guaranteeing a precise fit for compatible Beretta shotguns.

This model is described as a flush fitting choke, meaning it sits flush with the end of the barrel, providing a clean profile and avoiding any snags. Kicks Industries utilizes Foreman Keith Pickering’s patented designs, which include full-porting and ported configurations, although this specific model is the Cylinder Modified version. The product description highlights its patented 3-D internal geometry, designed to enhance wad and slug guidance, leading to tighter and denser patterns. This advanced internal design is a key selling point, promising superior ballistic performance over standard choke tubes.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl delivers exceptionally well. The Cylinder Modified constriction provides a beautifully consistent pattern, delivering dense payloads of shot with minimal peripheral spread. This translates directly into increased effectiveness at range, whether for small game or clay targets. I’ve found it to excel particularly with magnum loads, which often become less predictable with lesser chokes.

The patented 3-D internal geometry truly seems to make a difference. It guides the shot payload and wad smoothly, preventing pellet deformation and ensuring a more uniform distribution downrange. This choke significantly reduces flyer counts and creates noticeably tighter groups compared to similar chokes I’ve tested, especially when shooting heavier magnum loads. It performs as advertised, offering a noticeable step up in pattern performance for those seeking that edge.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke is both practical and robust. The Stainless Steel construction gives it a satisfying heft and a premium feel, indicating its durability. The black finish is subtle and resists scratching, maintaining its appearance even after repeated use in rough conditions. As a flush fitting choke, it maintains the shotgun’s original lines without extending beyond the barrel, which is aesthetically pleasing and practically beneficial for handling and storage.

The threading is precise, ensuring easy installation and removal without galling or cross-threading, a common frustration with lower-quality choke tubes. The internal geometry, while not visible externally, is the heart of its performance, and its effective design speaks volumes about the thought put into its development. It’s a no-frills design focused purely on maximizing ballistic performance.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extensive use, the durability of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke is excellent. The Stainless Steel construction is a major factor here, providing inherent resistance to rust and the corrosive effects of black powder residue and modern propellants. I have experienced no signs of cracking, warping, or degradation of the internal porting or choke constriction.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning of the barrel and the choke itself to remove fouling. A simple bore snake and appropriate cleaning solvent are sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. The flush fitting design also means it’s less prone to collecting dirt and debris than extended chokes. Its robust build suggests it will last for many years, even under heavy usage.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular model, the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl, is a standalone component and does not typically come with additional accessories in the traditional sense. Its primary function is as a direct replacement or upgrade for the factory choke tube on compatible shotguns. However, the system it integrates with, Beretta Optima Plus, means it’s designed to work seamlessly with the existing barrel.

While this specific choke offers a Cylinder Modified constriction, Kicks Industries offers a range of other choke tubes within their High Flyer line, including different constrictions like Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full, allowing shooters to customize their shotgun’s performance for specific applications. This modularity is a key aspect for shotgun owners looking to fine-tune their firearm.

Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl

Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl?

This choke is ideal for experienced shotgunners who own a Beretta shotgun equipped with the Beretta Optima Plus choke tube system and are looking to significantly improve their patterning consistency. If you are an upland hunter who demands tighter patterns for those crucial shots at flushing game, or a sporting clays enthusiast aiming to shave seconds off your scores, this choke will likely meet your needs. It’s also a great option for those who use heavier loads or slugs and want more predictable performance.

Shooters who are on a tight budget or own shotguns with different choke tube systems should look elsewhere. If you are new to shotguns and haven’t yet decided on your preferred choke constriction, a less specialized, more affordable option might be better initially. For those investing in this choke, I recommend purchasing a good quality bore snake and choke tube wrench to ensure proper installation and maintenance.

Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 12ga Beretta Optima Plus Mod Cyl is, in my professional opinion, an outstanding upgrade for any shooter with a compatible Beretta shotgun. Its performance, particularly the enhanced pattern density and consistency delivered by the patented 3-D internal geometry, is readily apparent from the first shot. The robust Stainless Steel construction ensures longevity and reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. While it carries a premium price tag compared to standard chokes, the tangible improvement in ballistic performance justifies the cost for those seeking an edge. I wholeheartedly recommend this choke to experienced shotgunners who value precision and reliability in their equipment and own a Beretta Optima Plus-compatible firearm. It’s a testament to quality engineering that genuinely elevates a shotgun’s effectiveness.