Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl Review

The Real Deal Behind the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl

My pursuit of consistent patterns with my 20-gauge shotgun recently led me to seek out a specific choke constriction. I was looking for something that offered a bit more control than a skeet or improved cylinder, but without the tight confines of a full choke, especially for those crucial mid-range shots common in field scenarios. The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl emerged as a compelling option, promising to deliver that elusive “just right” performance. My previous experiences with various chokes had been mixed, with some yielding overly tight patterns that made follow-up shots difficult, and others too open, leading to frustrating misses.

Upon receiving the Kicks Industries choke, my initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. It possesses a reassuring heft, indicative of the stainless steel construction mentioned in its specifications. The matte black finish is understated and functional, and the knurled end provides a subtle but effective grip for installation and removal, even with slightly damp hands. I briefly considered a more budget-friendly option from a lesser-known brand, but ultimately decided that investing in a reputable manufacturer like Kicks Industries, known for their focus on performance, was the wiser choice for this particular application. A quick visual inspection and the tactile feedback from handling it gave me a sense of quiet satisfaction and anticipation for its performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl to the Test

My testing grounds for this choke tube were primarily two-fold: the controlled environment of a sporting clays course and the more unpredictable terrain of local field shoots. I wanted to assess its performance under simulated hunting conditions and in situations where pattern density and consistency are paramount for success. During these outings, the weather varied from crisp autumn mornings with light dew to warmer, drier afternoons, allowing me to gauge its behavior across a spectrum of conditions.

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl proved to be remarkably straightforward to install. It threaded smoothly into my Browning Invector Plus receiver, seating properly without any hint of binding. I experienced no initial hiccups or surprises with its fit or function; it simply worked as intended from the moment it was in place. This ease of use meant I could focus on the shooting itself, rather than fussing with equipment.

First Use Experience

My initial experience involved a session on a sporting clays course, specifically targeting stations with targets presented at ranges between 25 and 40 yards. This choke, designated as Improved Cylinder, is intended to offer a moderate constriction, promoting denser patterns than a standard cylinder bore but still allowing for some spread. The results were immediately noticeable. The clays I engaged at these distances broke cleanly and consistently.

I observed a significant improvement in pattern density compared to my previous choke, which was a standard improved cylinder. The shot string appeared more uniform, leading to more effective breaks on targets. Even when I experienced a slight miss in my swing on one station, the pattern still had enough coverage to shatter the clay. This gave me a newfound confidence in engaging targets at these crucial distances.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks of consistent use, spanning multiple shooting days and practice sessions, the Kicks Industries choke tube has held up exceptionally well. I haven’t encountered any degradation in its performance or any signs of excessive wear. The matte black finish remains intact, and the internal machining shows no obvious signs of damage or fouling that would impede its function.

In terms of durability, this choke feels built to last. It has been subjected to the rigors of repeated installation and removal, as well as exposure to powder residue and the elements. Its stainless steel construction is a clear advantage here, offering resistance to corrosion and wear that lesser materials might succumb to. Compared to some aftermarket chokes I’ve used in the past, which developed subtle nicks or scoring over time, this Kicks Industries model feels significantly more robust. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a cleaning cloth after each shooting session and an occasional light oiling is all it requires.

Breaking Down the Features of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl

The core of this choke tube’s appeal lies in its precise engineering and the intended performance it promises. As the name suggests, it is designed for 20-gauge shotguns featuring the Browning Invector Plus choke tube system. The “Imp Cyl” designation signifies an Improved Cylinder constriction, which is a key specification that dictates its patterning characteristics.

This specific constriction aims to strike a balance. It tightens the shot pattern enough to increase the effective range and energy of the shot charge compared to a pure cylinder bore, but not so much that it creates an overly tight pattern which can lead to “misses” if your aim is slightly off or the target moves unexpectedly. For many bird hunting scenarios or general clay shooting, this intermediate constriction is highly versatile.

Specifications

Let’s delve into the tangible aspects of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl. This choke tube is constructed from high-grade stainless steel, a material chosen for its inherent strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. This ensures it can withstand the pressures and heat generated during firing, while also resisting the damaging effects of moisture and residue.

The choke tube system it is designed for is **Browning Invector Plus (+) **. This is crucial, as it ensures compatibility with specific shotgun models, primarily those manufactured by Browning and some other firearm manufacturers that have adopted this system. The gauge is 20, making it specifically tailored for 20-gauge firearms. The choke type is Improved Cylinder (Imp Cyl), which translates to a moderate constriction of approximately .005 to .010 inches beyond the bore diameter. This constriction is ideal for delivering *balanced patterns* at ranges typically encountered for upland game or many clay shooting disciplines. The gun make it is primarily intended for is Browning. The color is a practical Black, offering a non-reflective finish.

Performance & Functionality

In practice, the Kicks Industries choke excels at delivering its promised performance. Its primary job is to control the shot pattern, and it does so with remarkable consistency. During my tests, I observed very uniform patterns at distances ranging from 20 to 40 yards, with minimal fliers or blown-out edges.

The key strength of this choke is its predictability. You know what kind of pattern density to expect, which allows you to adjust your aiming and lead more confidently. While I didn’t encounter any significant weaknesses, I would note that for extreme close-quarters shooting (under 20 yards), the Improved Cylinder might be slightly tighter than absolutely necessary, though it still performs admirably. For its intended purpose, it meets and often exceeds expectations, particularly when considering its price point relative to some premium custom chokes.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl is a testament to functional simplicity. The choice of stainless steel provides a feeling of inherent sturdiness, and the matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, reducing glare.

Ergonomically, it’s designed for ease of use. The knurled exterior band around the muzzle end is a thoughtful touch, providing essential grip for hand-tightening and removal, even if your hands are a bit cold or damp. There is virtually no learning curve involved; it fits and functions like any other quality choke tube within the Invector Plus system. The markings indicating the choke type are clear and easy to read, which is important in the field.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction and my extended testing, this choke tube is built for long-term durability. I anticipate it will last for many years, if not decades, under typical shooting conditions for a reusable choke. Its stainless steel composition is the primary driver of this longevity.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. After each shooting session, a quick clean with a bore solvent and a patch to remove fouling from the interior is sufficient. Occasional lubrication of the threads can ensure smooth installation and removal, preventing galling. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points or potential concerns with this model.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular offering is a standalone choke tube and does not come with additional accessories. Its customization potential lies in its intended application: to provide a specific constriction for a particular shooting discipline or hunting scenario.

It is, by design, compatible with other Browning Invector Plus choke tubes, allowing for easy interchangeability. This means if you have other chokes in the same system, you can easily swap them out depending on your needs. There are no inherent electronic or mechanical components that would require specialized accessories beyond standard cleaning tools.

Pros and Cons of Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl

Who Should Buy Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl?

This choke tube is an excellent choice for any 20-gauge shotgun owner who utilizes the Browning Invector Plus (+) choke tube system. It is particularly well-suited for upland bird hunters, such as those pursuing quail, grouse, or woodcock, where shots are often taken at moderate distances. Sporting clays and skeet shooters who find a standard cylinder too open and a modified too tight will also benefit greatly from the versatile Improved Cylinder constriction this model provides.

Individuals who should likely skip this specific choke tube are those who own shotguns with different choke systems (e.g., Beretta MobilChoke, Remington RemChoke) or those who primarily engage in very close-quarters shooting (like turkey hunting at very short ranges) or extremely long-range shooting that would necessitate tighter constrictions like Modified or Full. For those who already own a satisfactory Improved Cylinder choke for their Invector Plus system, this specific purchase might be redundant unless they are seeking a Kicks Industries upgrade.

Conclusion on Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl

The Kicks Industries Kicks High Flyer Choke 20ga Browning Invector Plus Imp Cyl is a solid performer that delivers exactly what it promises. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the Improved Cylinder constriction provides a versatile patterning solution for a wide range of shooting applications. For owners of compatible 20-gauge shotguns, it represents a worthwhile upgrade for enhancing accuracy and consistency in the field or on the range.

Considering its robust build quality and the noticeable improvement in patterning, the price of this choke tube is justified. It offers excellent value by providing reliable performance without the exorbitant cost of some custom-made options. I would personally recommend this choke tube to any shooter looking for a dependable Improved Cylinder option for their Browning Invector Plus equipped shotgun. If you value consistent patterns and durable construction, this Kicks Industries choke is a smart investment for your shooting pursuits.