Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 Review

The Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 Review You’ve Been Looking For

For years, I’ve navigated the intricate world of gear, from the dusty workshop to the unpredictable outdoors, always seeking equipment that doesn’t just perform but endures. My search for a reliable choke tube for my 20-gauge Spartan Arms shotgun led me to the Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600. This particular model promised precision and durability, boasting a modified choke pattern that’s a sweet spot for many hunting and sporting clay applications. The promise of 17-4 ph stainless steel and a lifetime warranty immediately caught my eye, suggesting a commitment to quality often missing in today’s market.

The need for a dependable choke tube arose after a particularly frustrating season with an older, less consistent barrel extension. I was looking for a specific pattern density for upland bird hunting, something that offered a bit more flexibility than a full choke but tighter control than an improved cylinder. The Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 seemed to hit that sweet spot on paper.

My first impression upon unboxing was positive. The choke tube had a substantial, solid feel, a clear indicator of the 17-4 ph stainless steel it’s constructed from. It lacked the thin, almost flimsy feel of some cheaper alternatives I’d encountered. The stainless steel finish was uniform and smooth, with no visible machining marks or imperfections. It felt like a precision instrument, rather than just a metal tube.

Initially, I had considered a few other brands, some offering extended designs with more aggressive constriction options. However, the reputation of Trulock for robust construction and their straightforward, no-nonsense approach to choke tube design swayed me. The fact that they CNC machine their chokes from solid bar stock, rather than using welded tubing, was a significant factor. This reinforced the feeling that this was a product built for longevity. My excitement was tempered with a seasoned user’s skepticism – would this choke tube live up to its specifications and the brand’s reputation?

Real-World Testing: Putting Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 took place on a crisp autumn morning, targeting pheasants in a familiar South Dakota field. The shotgun was a 20-gauge Spartan Arms, known for its reliability but often benefiting from aftermarket enhancements. Installation was straightforward; the choke threaded in smoothly with a satisfying snugness, indicating a precise fit.

During the hunt, the performance was immediately noticeable. The pattern density at typical upland ranges (25-40 yards) was remarkably consistent. I observed fewer “stringers” and a more even distribution of shot, which translated to cleaner retrieves. Even when I pushed the range a bit, the modified choke held its own, delivering effective patterns without excessive pellet spread.

I deliberately exposed the choke to the elements – a light dusting of dew on the field, a brief walk through damp brush – and it showed no signs of immediate staining or rust. The stainless steel construction certainly lived up to its reputation for corrosion resistance. Ease of use was paramount, and this choke delivered; it performed its function without requiring any special handling or adjustment period. My only minor surprise was perhaps the slightly deeper tone of the report compared to the factory choke, a subtle auditory cue of the increased restriction.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full pheasant season and several trips to the sporting clays range, the Trulock choke tube has become a permanent fixture in my shotgun. It has seen hundreds of rounds, from light target loads to heavier 20-gauge hunting ammunition. The performance remains just as consistent as day one, with no discernible degradation in pattern quality.

Durability has been exceptional. Despite occasional bumps against tree trunks or dropped shells near the muzzle, there are no dents, cracks, or significant scuffs. The internal bore remains pristine, showing only the faintest of carbon buildup, easily cleaned with a standard brush. Maintenance is blessedly simple; a quick wipe-down after each use and a more thorough cleaning periodically is all that’s required. This is a stark contrast to some chokes that require special solvents or more involved cleaning routines.

Compared to the factory choke or other less robust options I’ve used in the past, this Trulock offers a tangible improvement. The consistent patterns it produces have directly contributed to better shooting results, making it feel like a significant upgrade rather than just a minor accessory. It truly lives up to the lifetime warranty it carries, feeling like it’s built to last indefinitely.

Breaking Down the Features of Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600

Specifications

The Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 is meticulously crafted with several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It’s designed for the 20 Gauge shotgun, specifically fitting Spartan Arms shotguns, though often compatible with other brands adhering to standard threading. The choke type is Modified, offering a constriction that typically patterns pellets within a tighter radius than an Improved Cylinder but allows for a broader pattern than a Full choke, making it ideal for mid-range shots.

The material is 17-4 ph grade stainless steel, a high-strength alloy known for its excellent resistance to corrosion and staining. This robust material is heat-treated to achieve a high tensile strength of 200,000 PSI, ensuring it can withstand the pressures of firing without deforming or wearing excessively. The construction method involves CNC machining from solid bar stock, a superior process that avoids the potential weaknesses of welded tubing. The product comes as a single unit, and a notable feature is its flush design, meaning it sits entirely within the barrel, presenting a clean profile. One specification listed is “45 yds,” likely referring to an optimal effective range for the modified pattern, though actual performance can vary with ammunition.

These specifications are crucial for a choke tube’s function. The 17-4 ph stainless steel ensures longevity and resistance to the harsh environment a firearm is exposed to. The 200,000 PSI strength rating guarantees it won’t fail under firing stress, while the CNC machining from solid bar stock speaks to precision and uniformity. The modified constriction strikes a balance, providing a versatile pattern for various shooting disciplines, and the flush design minimizes snagging and maintains the shotgun’s original aesthetics.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 performs exceptionally well. Its ability to reliably constrict the shot pattern at its specified modified setting is evident in consistent shot distribution on paper and in the field. This consistency is paramount for effective wing shooting, where a well-formed pattern can mean the difference between a clean kill and a wounded bird.

The main strength of this choke tube is its pattern consistency. It delivers a dense, even spread of pellets at the intended ranges, which directly translates to improved shooting success. The 17-4 ph stainless steel construction also contributes to its functionality by ensuring it remains resistant to the corrosive effects of powder residue and atmospheric moisture. A minor weakness, if one must be found, is its fixed constriction. While the modified choke is versatile, users who require different constrictions for specific situations might need to purchase additional tubes.

Overall, this choke tube not only meets but often exceeds expectations for its price point and intended use. It provides a noticeable improvement in pattern performance over many factory chokes, making it a valuable addition for any shooter looking to refine their shotgun’s performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Its flush design ensures it sits neatly within the barrel, maintaining a clean, traditional look for the shotgun. The stainless steel finish is smooth and durable, resisting scratches and wear better than blued finishes often do.

Build quality is immediately apparent; the material feels dense and robust, a testament to the 17-4 ph stainless steel and the machining process. There are no rough edges or imperfections, with the threads being precisely cut for a smooth, secure fit. Ergonomically, since it’s a flush tube, its “feel” is integrated with the barrel itself. The lack of external protuberances means it doesn’t interfere with handling or mounting the shotgun.

Practical design details include the precise threading, which ensures easy installation and removal without galling or jamming. While it doesn’t have external knurling for hand-tightening (as it’s a flush model), the smooth finish looks clean. The internal bore’s smooth finish is critical for shot column integrity, and this choke delivers on that front.

Durability & Maintenance

The Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 is engineered for exceptional durability. Given its construction from heat-treated 17-4 ph stainless steel and its machining from solid bar stock, it’s built to withstand heavy use over many years. For its intended purpose as a shotgun choke, this means it should last a lifetime under normal shooting conditions.

Maintenance is straightforward and minimal. After firing, a simple wipe-down with a cleaning cloth and solvent to remove powder residue from the bore and threads is usually sufficient. Occasionally, a more thorough cleaning with a bore brush can ensure optimal performance. Unlike some chokes that can seize or become difficult to remove due to heat cycling or corrosion, the stainless steel nature of this tube greatly mitigates such issues.

Potential failure points for chokes typically involve thread damage, cracking due to over-tightening or improper fit, or deformation from excessive pressure. However, the robust material, precise manufacturing, and the fact that it’s a modified choke (less extreme constriction than full or extra-full) make these concerns unlikely with this Trulock model. It’s designed to be a worry-free component.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 is a specialized component, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with a wide array of accessories. It functions as a direct replacement or upgrade for an existing choke tube. The primary “accessory” is the lifetime warranty provided by Trulock, which is a significant value proposition in itself.

Customization options are limited to selecting different choke constrictions from Trulock’s product line if your needs change. However, this specific PP20600 model is the modified choke tube, offering a singular, versatile constriction. Its compatibility with Spartan Arms shotguns is a key factor, and users should verify thread patterns for compatibility with other shotgun brands. This straightforward approach means no dealing with unnecessary extras, focusing purely on performance.

Pros and Cons of Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600

Who Should Buy Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600?

This Trulock choke tube is an excellent choice for upland bird hunters, sporting clays enthusiasts, and general shotgunners who use a 20-gauge Spartan Arms shotgun and seek improved pattern performance. It’s perfect for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and desire a choke that is both reliable and durable for years of use. Anyone looking for a consistent, accurate modified choke that won’t require frequent maintenance would benefit greatly.

Those who require highly specialized chokes for extreme long-range shooting or very specific pattern requirements might want to consider extended chokes or different constriction options. However, for the vast majority of 20-gauge shooters looking for a reliable upgrade to their existing barrel, this is a fantastic option. A good quality gun cleaning kit and some basic gun oil would be the only complementary items needed to maintain this durable choke tube.

Conclusion on Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600

The Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 is a standout product that delivers on its promises of quality and performance. Its construction from 17-4 ph stainless steel and CNC machining from solid bar stock result in a choke tube that feels exceptionally well-made and performs with remarkable consistency. The modified pattern it produces is versatile and effective for a wide range of shooting applications, particularly in upland hunting and sporting clays.

Considering its price point of $35.99, the value proposition is outstanding. It offers a significant upgrade in pattern quality and durability that far surpasses many factory chokes and even some higher-priced aftermarket options. The lifetime warranty further solidifies its position as a wise investment. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Trulock Choke Tubes PP20600 to any owner of a compatible 20-gauge Spartan Arms shotgun looking to enhance their shooting experience with a reliable, high-performance choke tube.