Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 Review

What I Found Using the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 represents a serious contender in the world of shotgun performance enhancement, particularly for those who demand precision in their turkey hunting or any long-range wing shooting. Trulock, a name synonymous with quality choke tubes, has delivered a product crafted from high-strength 17-4 stainless steel, promising durability and consistent performance. Its extended design, knurled finish, and black oxide coating are not just aesthetic choices; they contribute significantly to ease of use and overall effectiveness in the field.

My pursuit of optimized shotgun patterns has been a long one, driven by the desire to achieve cleaner, tighter shot strings at distances where marginal performers falter. I’d grown frustrated with the inconsistent patterns from flush-mount chokes, particularly when pushing the effective range of my 12 gauge. The promise of reduced shot deformation and better patterning potential offered by an extended turkey choke like this one was precisely the solution I was seeking to elevate my success rate.

Upon receiving the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673, the immediate impression was one of robust quality. The heft of the 17-4 stainless steel was reassuring, and the machining was visibly precise. The knurled section at the end of the choke provided an excellent grip, even with slightly damp or gloved hands.

I had considered a few other extended turkey choke manufacturers, some with similar price points and others significantly more expensive. However, Trulock consistently surfaced in discussions about reliability and consistent patterning. The specific design and material of this particular model seemed to strike a balance between specialized turkey performance and potential versatility, which was a key factor in my decision.

My initial feeling was one of keen anticipation. The build quality suggested that this choke tube was built to withstand the rigors of field use, and I was eager to see if the promised performance improvements translated from specification to reality.

Real-World Testing: Putting Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place on a crisp autumn morning at a local, moderately wooded shooting range equipped with static turkey targets. I fitted the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 to my trusted 12 gauge Beretta shotgun, ensuring it was snug but not overtightened. I used a variety of premium turkey loads, ranging from 3.5-inch #4 shot to 3-inch #5 shot, at distances between 40 and 60 yards.

The choke performed exceptionally well in these controlled conditions. The patterns produced were noticeably tighter and more consistent than any flush-mount choke I had previously used. At 40 yards, the spread was incredibly dense, and even at 60 yards, the patterns remained formidable, with a significant number of pellets striking within the vital zones of the target.

The extended design made swapping chokes a breeze, even in less-than-ideal weather. The knurled grip offered secure purchase, and the black oxide finish showed no signs of wear after repeated installations and removals. I experienced no issues with cycling ammunition or with the choke maintaining its position during firing.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of a full turkey season and several clay target outings, the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 has proven its mettle. It has been subjected to the dust and occasional light moisture of early morning hunts, and the intense firing schedule of practice sessions. Through it all, its performance has remained remarkably consistent.

There are no visible signs of stress, such as cracks or deformation, on the choke tube. The internal bore still appears smooth, and the external finish, while showing minor handling marks, remains intact. The knurling still provides excellent grip, a testament to its durable construction.

Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a bore solvent and a soft cloth after each use is sufficient to keep it in prime condition. The Trulock choke tube has outperformed some of the more budget-friendly options I’ve tried in the past, which often showed signs of significant wear and pattern degradation after a single season. Its reliability is on par with, and in some cases surpasses, higher-end aftermarket options.

Breaking Down the Features of Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673

Specifications

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 is a testament to thoughtful engineering. It is manufactured from high-strength 17-4 stainless steel, a material chosen for its superior durability and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for demanding environments. This choke tube is designed specifically for 12 Gauge shotguns and is classified as a Turkey choke, indicating its intended purpose for achieving very dense patterns at extended ranges.

It features an extended design, meaning it protrudes from the muzzle of the shotgun. This extension not only aids in easier installation and removal but also allows for a more gradual constriction of the shot, theoretically reducing pellet deformation for a tighter pattern. The knurled finish on the extended portion offers enhanced grip, crucial for quick changes in the field, and the black oxide finish provides a non-reflective, corrosion-resistant exterior.

Furthermore, the choke is precisely marked with the degree of choke on the head and the bore diameter on the body, ensuring clear identification for the shooter. The product is sold as a single unit. The “45+yds” designation in the additional features suggests it’s engineered to deliver effective patterns at ranges exceeding 45 yards, a critical metric for turkey hunting.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role as a turkey choke, the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 excels. It consistently delivers tight, uniform patterns that are essential for clean kills at longer distances. The reduction in shot deformation, as suggested by its extended design and material choice, is evident in the reduced pellet spread observed on targets.

Its main strength lies in its ability to throw a devastating pattern at ranges that would be unreliable with standard chokes. The precision patterning is what truly sets it apart. As for weaknesses, it’s important to note that this is a specialized turkey choke; while it can be used for other purposes, its tight constriction might not be optimal for shorter-range clay sports or hunting scenarios requiring wider patterns.

For its intended application, this choke tube meets and often exceeds expectations. The performance gains are substantial, particularly when paired with high-quality turkey loads. It truly transforms the effective range of a 12 gauge shotgun for specialized purposes.

Design & Ergonomics

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 boasts a functional and robust design. The use of 17-4 stainless steel gives it a solid, premium feel. The machining is precise, with no rough edges or imperfections evident.

The extended, knurled design is a significant ergonomic win. It allows for easy gripping and twisting, even with gloves on, making swapping chokes in the field or at the range quick and hassle-free. The black oxide finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also offers a practical, non-reflective surface that blends well with most shotgun barrels.

The clear markings on the choke are a thoughtful touch, eliminating any guesswork about its constriction. This attention to detail in design enhances the overall usability and user experience, ensuring that you always know exactly what choke you are deploying.

Durability & Maintenance

This choke tube is clearly built for the long haul. Given its construction from 17-4 stainless steel, it is highly resistant to wear and tear. Under normal use, which for a turkey choke can include significant recoil and exposure to the elements, I anticipate many years of reliable service.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A light cleaning with a bore snake and some solvent after each shooting session is usually all that’s required. It’s important to ensure it’s not overtightened, as this can sometimes lead to extraction issues, but this is a common point across most choke tubes.

I have not encountered any specific failure points. The primary concern with any choke tube is potential corrosion if left dirty or exposed to harsh environments for extended periods, but the stainless steel and oxide finish offer excellent protection against this.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 comes as a single unit, and the product description doesn’t list any included accessories. However, its design is compatible with standard choke tube wrenches, although the knurled extended end makes one largely unnecessary for installation and removal.

While there are no direct customization options for this specific choke tube itself, its true value lies in its compatibility with a wide range of 12 gauge shotguns that accept Beretta-style choke tubes. This means it can be deployed across multiple compatible firearms, offering versatility. The ability to swap it out for different constrictions (like Improved Cylinder or Modified for different hunting scenarios or clay games) is its own form of customization, allowing shooters to tailor their firearm’s performance to specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673

Who Should Buy Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673?

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 is an exceptional choice for dedicated turkey hunters who prioritize ethical kills and want to maximize the effective range of their 12 gauge shotgun. It’s also a great option for any shotgunner seeking superior pattern performance for long-range wing shooting applications where precision is paramount. Shooters who value durability and ease of use will appreciate the 17-4 stainless steel construction and the practical extended, knurled design.

Conversely, individuals primarily involved in close-quarters bird hunting (like quail or dove) or those who frequently shoot clay targets at shorter ranges might find this choke too restrictive. If your needs are more general-purpose, a less specialized choke might be a more economical and practical choice.

For those who decide to invest, consider pairing this choke with high-quality turkey loads specifically designed for extended range. Ensuring you have a good choke tube wrench (though often not strictly necessary due to the knurling) and a reliable cleaning kit will help maintain its peak performance over time.

Conclusion on Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673

The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 is a high-performance component that demonstrably enhances shotgun effectiveness for its intended purpose. Its robust build quality, derived from 17-4 stainless steel, coupled with its intelligent extended, knurled design, makes it a pleasure to use and a reliable performer. The ability to produce exceptionally tight and consistent patterns is its most significant asset, translating directly to improved success in the field.

Considering its performance gains, durable construction, and the ease of use provided by its thoughtful design, the price point of $53.49 is more than justified. It offers excellent value for the serious hunter or shooter who demands the best from their equipment.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12673 to any 12 gauge shotgun owner looking to specifically improve their turkey hunting capabilities or any long-range shooting applications. For those seeking to push the boundaries of their shotgun’s effective range with consistent, dense patterns, this choke tube is a superb investment that delivers on its promises.