Let’s Dive into Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718
For over a decade, I’ve been immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, testing and evaluating everything from high-powered rifles to specialized hunting apparel. One area I’ve dedicated a significant amount of time to is shotgun performance, specifically how choke tubes influence shot patterns. The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718, a 12-gauge light modified choke tube designed for Beretta shotguns, caught my attention due to Trulock’s reputation for precision and quality.
My journey to finding this choke tube stemmed from a frustrating experience during a recent pheasant hunt. I was consistently missing shots that I felt I should have made, even at moderate ranges. I suspected my factory choke wasn’t delivering the optimal pattern for the distances I was engaging targets.
Upon receiving the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718, my initial impression was positive. The black oxide finish gave it a sleek, professional look, and the knurled extension felt solid and well-machined. The weight felt appropriate, suggesting quality construction without being overly bulky.
Compared to the factory Beretta choke tubes, the Trulock offered a noticeable extension and a more aggressive knurling. This made it easier to install and remove, especially with gloved hands in colder weather. I also considered the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Cremator Ported Choke Tube and the Briley Spectrum Extended Choke, but opted for the Trulock due to its balance of price, positive reviews, and the promise of improved patterns without excessive porting.
I was genuinely excited to test the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718. The prospect of tightening my patterns and improving my hit ratio in the field was a motivating factor. I hoped this choke would provide a noticeable advantage over my factory setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718 at my local sporting clays range. The range provides a variety of target presentations, simulating hunting conditions and allowing for pattern evaluation at different distances. I specifically focused on targets presented at 30-40 yards, the range where I felt my factory choke was lacking.
The Trulock performed admirably, delivering noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns compared to my factory modified choke. The difference was particularly evident when shooting at clay targets edge-on; the Trulock consistently broke these targets, whereas the factory choke often resulted in chips or misses. There were no noticeable issues with installation or removal, even after repeated use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to hundreds of rounds of various shot types. The black oxide finish remains intact, and the threads are still clean and smooth.
Maintaining the Trulock is simple; a quick cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent after each use is all that’s required. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper choke tubes, the Trulock far outperforms in terms of pattern consistency and durability. This Trulock choke has become a trusted addition to my Beretta.
Breaking Down the Features of Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Trulock. Trulock is known for its high-quality choke tubes and commitment to precision manufacturing.
- Finish: Black. The black oxide finish provides a durable and corrosion-resistant coating.
- Fabric/Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel. The use of 17-4 stainless steel ensures strength and resistance to wear.
- Gauge: 12. This choke tube is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns.
- Choke Type: Skeet 2. Skeet 2 provides a light modified constriction, suitable for close to mid-range targets.
- Quantity: 1. The package includes one choke tube.
- Additional Features: 35 yds. This suggests the effective range for optimal pattern density with this choke.
The specifications matter because they directly influence the choke tube’s performance and longevity. 17-4 stainless steel offers superior durability compared to cheaper materials, while the light modified constriction provides a versatile balance between pattern density and spread.
Performance & Functionality
The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718 excels in delivering consistent and effective shot patterns. Its Skeet 2 constriction is ideal for sporting clays, upland bird hunting, and close-range waterfowl. The choke tube significantly improves pattern density at ranges of 25-40 yards compared to a more open choke.
The primary strength lies in its ability to tighten patterns without creating excessive constriction. This provides a greater margin for error when shooting moving targets. The main weakness, if any, is that it might be too tight for very close-range engagements (under 20 yards).
Design & Ergonomics
The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718 boasts a well-thought-out design. Its extended and knurled design allows for easy installation and removal, even with gloved hands. The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides a reassuring sense of durability and quality.
The design is exceptionally user-friendly. The choke installs easily and requires no special tools beyond a standard choke tube wrench. The knurled extension provides a secure grip for tightening and loosening.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its 17-4 stainless steel construction, the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718 is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning with a choke tube brush and solvent is all that is needed to maintain its performance.
The robust construction makes it resistant to damage from repeated firing and exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718 itself doesn’t require any additional accessories, as it’s a standalone product. However, it is compatible with any standard choke tube wrench designed for Beretta shotguns. There are no specific customization options beyond choosing different choke constrictions within the Trulock product line.
The compatibility with standard choke tube wrenches means users can easily swap out the Trulock with other choke tubes as needed.
Pros and Cons of Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: Delivers tighter and more consistent patterns at mid-range distances.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Extended and knurled design allows for quick and easy changes.
- Versatile Performance: Suitable for sporting clays, upland bird hunting, and close-range waterfowl.
- Enhanced Reach: Provides a better effective range compared to factory chokes for those longer shots.
Cons
- May Be Too Tight for Very Close Range: Might not be ideal for engagements under 20 yards.
- Limited Customization: Offers no user-adjustable features beyond the fixed choke constriction.
Who Should Buy Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718?
The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718 is perfect for shotgun owners looking to improve their pattern density and effective range at mid-distances. It’s ideal for sporting clays enthusiasts, upland bird hunters targeting birds like pheasant and quail, and waterfowlers engaging ducks and geese at reasonable ranges (25-40 yards). Anyone who owns a Beretta 12-gauge shotgun and experiences inconsistent patterns with their factory choke will benefit from this product.
Someone who primarily hunts in thick brush where shots are consistently taken at very close range (under 20 yards) might find this choke too tight. Also, competitive trap shooters who require extremely tight patterns at long distances may prefer a full or extra full choke.
A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory for easy installation and removal. Cleaning solvent and a choke tube brush are also essential for maintaining the choke tube’s performance.
Conclusion on Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718
The Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718 is a well-engineered and highly effective choke tube that delivers on its promise of improved pattern density. Its 17-4 stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the extended and knurled design makes it easy to use in the field. For a price of $53.49, the value proposition is excellent, especially considering the noticeable improvement in shooting performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Trulock Choke Tubes PHBEOP12718 to any Beretta 12-gauge shotgun owner looking to enhance their shooting experience. If you’re tired of inconsistent patterns and missed shots, this choke tube is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference a quality choke tube can make!