Mastering Your Shotgun's Performance: The Carlson's 20002 Improved Cylinder Choke for Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge

Are you a shotgun owner looking to achieve more consistent patterns, improve your hit rates, and elevate your shooting performance across various disciplines? Whether you're an avid hunter pursuing elusive upland birds, a passionate sporting clays competitor aiming for higher scores, or a new shooter seeking to understand how to optimize your shotgun, the right choke tube is a critical component. For those wielding a Benelli 12 gauge shotgun equipped with the Crio Plus system, the Carlson's 20002 Flush Improved Cylinder Choke Tube offers a definitive solution designed to enhance versatility and precision.

This comprehensive guide delves into the specifics of the Carlson's 20002 choke, explaining its engineering, benefits, and how it can transform your shooting experience. We'll explore why an Improved Cylinder choke is an indispensable part of your kit, especially when facing diverse shooting scenarios, and how Carlson's commitment to quality ensures a product that stands up to rigorous use.

What is an Improved Cylinder Choke and Why Do You Need One?

An Improved Cylinder (IC) choke is a common and highly versatile constriction designed to provide a modest spread of shot while maintaining a dense enough pattern for effective engagement at closer to mid-ranges. Unlike tighter chokes like Full or Modified, the Improved Cylinder allows the shot string to expand more quickly, resulting in a broader pattern that is forgiving for targets that are moving rapidly or appearing unexpectedly.

Here’s a breakdown of its key characteristics and ideal applications:

• Pattern Density: An Improved Cylinder choke typically delivers approximately 45-55% of a shotgun's total pellet count in a 30-inch circle at 40 yards. This provides a balanced pattern – open enough for quick target acquisition but dense enough to ensure reliable hits.
• Optimal Range: It excels at distances generally ranging from 20 to 35 yards. This makes it perfect for situations where targets are closer or when a wider pattern increases the likelihood of a successful shot.
• Versatility: This is arguably the IC choke's greatest strength. It’s an excellent choice for a multitude of shooting activities, making it a foundational choke for many shooters.

Common Shooting Scenarios Where an Improved Cylinder Choke Excels:

• Upland Bird Hunting: For birds like pheasants, quail, and grouse that flush unpredictably and often at closer ranges, the IC choke provides the necessary spread to connect effectively without destroying the quarry.
• Close-Range Waterfowl: When ducks or geese are decoying tightly or passing directly overhead within 30 yards, the IC can offer a wider, more forgiving pattern.
• Sporting Clays: Many stations in sporting clays demand a more open choke for close, fast, or crossing targets. The IC is a go-to choice for numerous presentations.
• Skeet Shooting: While Skeet often calls for even more open chokes like Skeet 1 or Skeet 2, an Improved Cylinder can be a viable option, particularly for stations where targets might be slightly further out.
• Trap Shooting (First Shot): For the first shot on a rising trap target, some shooters prefer an IC for a slightly larger pattern, especially if they are new to the sport or prefer a more open pattern.
• Home Defense: In close-quarters environments, the wider pattern of an IC choke can increase the effective spread of defensive loads, reducing the need for pinpoint accuracy under stress.

The Carlson's Advantage: Engineering for Excellence

Carlson's Choke Tubes has established a reputation for producing high-quality, durable, and precisely engineered shotgun accessories. The Carlson's 20002 Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Flush Improved Cylinder choke embodies this commitment, designed to provide superior performance and longevity.

Key Engineering Features:

1. Premium 17-4 Stainless Steel Construction:

• Unparalleled Strength: 17-4 stainless steel is a martensitic precipitation-hardening stainless steel known for its exceptional strength and hardness. This material choice ensures the choke tube can withstand the intense pressures and forces generated during firing, preventing deformation or premature wear.
• Superior Corrosion Resistance: Shotgun choke tubes are constantly exposed to moisture, combustion byproducts, and fouling. 17-4 stainless steel offers excellent resistance to corrosion and rust, prolonging the life of your choke tube and maintaining its aesthetic integrity. This is crucial for shooters operating in various environmental conditions, from humid duck blinds to dusty clay ranges.
• Durability and Longevity: The inherent properties of 17-4 stainless steel mean this choke tube is built to last. It resists nicks, scratches, and dings better than softer materials, ensuring consistent performance over thousands of rounds.

2. Precision Machining and Manufacturing:

• Consistent Patterning: Carlson's utilizes state-of-the-art CNC machining processes to ensure each choke tube is manufactured to incredibly tight tolerances. This precision is paramount for delivering consistent and uniform shot patterns, which is the ultimate goal of any choke tube. A perfectly concentric choke ensures that the shot column is not distorted as it exits the barrel.
• Flawless Fit: The exact dimensions mean the choke seats perfectly within your Benelli Crio Plus barrel, preventing gas leakage and ensuring optimal shot control. A flush design means it does not extend beyond the muzzle, preserving the sleek profile of your shotgun and preventing snagging.

3. Benelli Crio Plus System Compatibility:

• This specific choke (UPC: 723189200022) is engineered explicitly for Benelli shotguns that feature the Crio Plus choke system. This includes a wide range of popular Benelli 12 gauge models such as the Benelli M2, Super Black Eagle II, Super Black Eagle 3, Vinci, Super Vinci, Ethos, Legacy, Montefeltro, and SuperSport models.
• The Crio Plus system itself is designed to work in conjunction with cryogenically treated barrels, promoting more uniform shot patterns and reduced fouling. Using a Carlson's choke, specifically designed for this system, ensures seamless integration and optimal performance, allowing your Benelli to perform as intended.

Benefits of Upgrading to the Carlson's 20002 Flush Improved Cylinder Choke

Investing in a high-quality choke tube like the Carlson's 20002 offers tangible benefits that directly impact your shooting success and enjoyment:

• Enhanced Shot Pattern Consistency: Experience more uniform and reliable shot patterns, leading to increased confidence and higher success rates whether you're breaking clays or taking down game. The precision engineering minimizes "hot spots" or "doughnut patterns" that can plague lower-quality chokes.
• Increased Versatility for Diverse Shooting Needs: With an Improved Cylinder choke, your 12 gauge Benelli becomes more adaptable. You can confidently tackle a wider array of targets and game, from fast-flushing quail to close-range sporting clay presentations, without needing to frequently change chokes.
• Superior Durability and Longevity: The 17-4 stainless steel construction means this choke tube is a long-term investment. It will resist wear, corrosion, and the rigors of heavy use, maintaining its performance season after season.
• Smooth, Unobstructed Profile: The flush design ensures the choke does not protrude from the barrel, preserving your shotgun's balance, preventing snagging on clothing or brush, and maintaining a clean aesthetic.
• Improved Recoil Management (Indirectly): While a choke tube doesn't directly reduce recoil, a more consistent and efficient pattern can contribute to a more predictable shooting experience. When pellets exit the barrel more uniformly, the overall energy transfer can feel smoother.

Choosing the Right Choke: When to Reach for Your Improved Cylinder

Deciding which choke to use for a particular situation can be daunting, especially for new shooters. Here's a quick guide on when the Carlson's 20002 Improved Cylinder choke is your best friend:

• If You're New to Shotgun Shooting: Start with an Improved Cylinder. It offers a forgiving pattern that helps build confidence as you learn to lead targets and understand shot spread.
• For Fast-Paced, Close-Range Targets: When targets are quick to appear and disappear, or when they are within 35 yards, the IC provides the optimal balance of spread and density.
• When Target Presentation is Unpredictable: In hunting scenarios where game might flush at varying distances and angles, the IC offers a good all-around solution.
• For Versatility in Sporting Clays: Many sporting clays courses are designed with a mix of presentations. An IC choke is often a great choice for a significant portion of these targets, allowing you to focus more on your swing and less on constantly changing chokes.
• If You Prefer a More Open Pattern for General Use: Some shooters simply prefer the slightly wider pattern an IC offers for general shooting, finding it more comfortable and effective for a broad spectrum of situations.

Maintaining Your Carlson's Choke Tube

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and performance of your Carlson's 20002 choke tube. While the 17-4 stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance, a little care goes a long way:

• Regular Cleaning: After each shooting session, remove the choke tube from your barrel. Use a good quality gun solvent and a brush to clean away powder residue and lead fouling from both the inside and outside of the choke, as well as the choke threads in your barrel.
• Lubrication: Apply a thin layer of choke tube grease to the threads of your choke before reinstalling it. This prevents galling (cold welding) of the threads and makes it easier to remove the choke for cleaning or changing.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect your choke tube for any signs of damage, nicks, or bulges. While 17-4 stainless steel is tough, extreme impacts can still cause issues.

Frequently Asked Questions About Choke Tubes and the Carlson's 20002

• Q: What is the primary advantage of a flush choke tube like the Carlson's 20002?
  A: Flush choke tubes do not extend beyond the muzzle of your shotgun barrel. This offers several advantages: they maintain the aesthetic balance of your firearm, prevent snagging on brush or clothing, and protect the end of your barrel from impact damage.
• Q: Can I use steel shot with the Carlson's 20002 Improved Cylinder choke?
  A: Yes, Carlson's choke tubes are rated for steel shot. An Improved Cylinder choke is generally safe for use with steel shot, provided the shot size is appropriate (usually up to BB or BBB, check your ammunition manufacturer's guidelines). However, it is always crucial to verify compatibility with both your shotgun manufacturer's recommendations and the choke tube's specific rating.
• Q: How do I know if my Benelli 12 gauge uses the Crio Plus system?
  A: Many modern Benelli 12 gauge shotguns are equipped with the Crio Plus system. You can typically identify Crio Plus chokes by their length and thread pattern. If your Benelli shotgun is an M2, Super Black Eagle II/3, Vinci, Super Vinci, Ethos, Legacy, Montefeltro, or SuperSport, it very likely uses the Crio Plus system. Always consult your firearm's owner's manual for definitive confirmation.
• Q: How often should I clean my choke tube?
  A: It's best practice to clean your choke tube after every shooting session, especially if you've fired a significant number of rounds or if using steel shot. This prevents fouling buildup and ensures easy removal.
• Q: What's the difference between Improved Cylinder and Modified chokes?
  A: The primary difference is the degree of constriction and, consequently, the pattern density. An Improved Cylinder is less restrictive, yielding a wider pattern (approx. 45-55% at 40 yards). A Modified choke is more restrictive, producing a denser pattern (approx. 55-65% at 40 yards), suitable for slightly longer ranges (30-45 yards).
• Q: Where can I find this Carlson's choke tube and other shotgun accessories?
  A: This high-quality choke tube, along with a wide array of other Carlson's products and essential shooting accessories, is readily available from reputable firearms retailers such as DEGuns.

The Carlson's 20002 Benelli Crio Plus 12 Gauge Flush Improved Cylinder choke tube is more than just a piece of metal; it's a precision-engineered tool designed to unlock the full potential of your shotgun. Its superior 17-4 stainless steel construction, precise machining, and versatile Improved Cylinder constriction make it an essential upgrade for any Benelli 12 gauge owner seeking improved performance, reliability, and adaptability across all their shooting pursuits. Elevate your game and experience the difference that a truly optimized shotgun setup can make.

Product Specifications Overview

Feature	Detail
Brand	Carlson's Choke Tubes
Choke Type	Flush
Gauge	12 Gauge
Constriction	Improved Cylinder
Material	17-4 Stainless Steel
Compatibility	Benelli Crio Plus System (e.g., M2, SBE II/3, Vinci, Ethos)
UPC	723189200022
Product Number	20002