Optimize Your Turkey Hunt: The ERA Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge .650 Choke Tube Explained

Are you a dedicated turkey hunter constantly striving for tighter patterns, extended range, and the confidence to make clean, ethical shots? Do you own a 12 gauge shotgun equipped with the Invector Plus choke system and wonder how to maximize its performance for gobblers? The ERA (Environmental and Research Associates) JPC12B1/650 Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tube, with its precision .650 constriction and durable matte black finish, is specifically engineered to answer these questions and solve the challenge of achieving superior downrange pattern density for turkey hunting.

This comprehensive guide is designed for serious hunters, competitive shooters, and shotgun enthusiasts seeking to upgrade their 12 gauge firearm’s capability for hunting turkeys. It addresses common pain points such as inconsistent patterns, limited effective range, and the desire for a reliable, hard-hitting payload delivery system.

Why Choose a Dedicated Turkey Choke Tube Like the ERA Head Hunter?

For many hunters, the quest for a perfect turkey load often ends in frustration, with patterns that are too open or inconsistent beyond short ranges. A standard "full" or "modified" choke, while versatile, simply isn't optimized for the unique requirements of turkey hunting. Turkeys present a small, vital target zone (head and neck), demanding an incredibly dense and uniform pattern of shot to ensure a clean, ethical kill. This is precisely where a specialized turkey choke like the ERA Head Hunter JPC12B1/650 excels.

• Unparalleled Pattern Density: The primary goal of a turkey choke is to constrict the shot column more aggressively than general-purpose chokes. The .650 constriction of the ERA Head Hunter forces the pellets into a much tighter column as they exit the barrel. This results in a significantly denser pattern at longer distances, placing more pellets into the critical kill zone. This increased pellet count means a higher probability of striking the vitals, even when the turkey is at the fringes of typical shotgun range.
• Extended Effective Range: By maintaining a tighter pattern, the ERA Head Hunter effectively extends your shotgun's ethical killing range. While responsible hunters always know their limits, this choke allows for cleaner shots at distances where a less specialized choke might produce a sparse, ineffective pattern. This can be crucial in open field scenarios or when a tom hangs up just out of reach.
• Consistency Shot After Shot: One of the most frustrating aspects of shotgun patterning is inconsistency. The precise engineering and high-quality materials of the ERA Head Hunter ensure that each shot delivers a reliable, predictable pattern, building confidence for those critical moments in the field.

Understanding the .650 Constriction: A Deep Dive into Performance

The designation ".650" refers to the internal diameter of the choke tube at its narrowest point, measured in inches. For a 12 gauge shotgun, a typical bore diameter is around .729 inches. This means the ERA Head Hunter provides a significant constriction, roughly .079 inches (.729 - .650). This level of constriction is generally considered "Extra Full" or specifically "Turkey Extra Full" and is a sweet spot for maximizing the pattern density of various turkey loads, particularly those containing buffered lead, copper-plated lead, or Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) pellets.

• How it Works: As the shot column travels down the barrel and enters the choke, the decreasing internal diameter compresses the pellets. This compression minimizes pellet deformation and keeps the shot column together more tightly as it exits the muzzle, leading to a denser, more concentrated pattern downrange. The .650 constriction is carefully balanced to provide maximum pattern density without causing excessive pressure or damage to the pellets, which could lead to flyers or blown patterns.
• Optimal Pellet Distribution: Beyond just density, the ERA Head Hunter aims for optimal pellet distribution. This means not only a high concentration of pellets in the center of the pattern but also a uniform spread of those pellets, minimizing gaps and ensuring consistent coverage of the turkey’s head and neck area. This level of optimization is crucial for achieving clean, ethical harvests.
• Compatibility with Modern Loads: The robust design of the ERA Head Hunter .650 choke is built to handle the higher pressures and denser shot materials of modern turkey loads, including Tungsten Super Shot (TSS). TSS, with its significantly higher density than lead, benefits immensely from a precisely engineered choke tube to maximize its incredible pattern potential.

What is Invector Plus Compatibility and Why Does it Matter?

The "Invector Plus" designation is critical because it defines which shotguns this choke tube will fit. The Invector Plus system is a specific choke tube threading and dimension standard primarily used by certain models from major manufacturers like Browning, Winchester, and Mossberg (for some models).

• Key Manufacturers Using Invector Plus:
  • Browning: Many Browning shotguns, especially those designed for hunting and sport shooting, utilize the Invector Plus system. This includes popular models like the BPS, Citori, Maxus, Silver, and Cynergy.
  • Winchester: A wide range of Winchester shotguns, including the Super X series (SX3, SX4) and some SXP pump-action models, are compatible with Invector Plus chokes.
  • Mossberg: While Mossberg is often associated with the Accu-Choke system, some of their specific models, particularly certain sporting or specialty models, use Invector Plus. Always verify your specific Mossberg model's choke system.
• Ensuring the Correct Fit: It is absolutely essential to verify that your shotgun specifically uses the Invector Plus choke system before purchasing the ERA Head Hunter JPC12B1/650. Attempting to install an incorrect choke tube can damage your shotgun's barrel or the choke tube itself, and poses a significant safety risk. Consult your shotgun's owner's manual or contact the manufacturer if you are unsure about your choke system.

Durable Construction and Practical Design

The ERA Head Hunter JPC12B1/650 is not just about precise constriction; it's also about durability and field performance.

• High-Quality Material: While specific material details (e.g., aerospace-grade stainless steel, heat-treated alloy) contribute to its performance, the ERA Head Hunter is crafted from robust materials designed to withstand the rigors of repeated firing, especially with high-performance turkey loads. This ensures longevity and consistent performance season after season.
• Matte Black Finish: The matte black finish serves several practical purposes in the field:
  • Reduced Glare: Prevents reflections that could spook wary turkeys.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Offers an added layer of protection against the elements, crucial for hunting in diverse weather conditions.
  • Stealth and Camouflage: Blends seamlessly with most shotgun finishes, contributing to the overall stealth of your hunting setup.
• Extended Design for Easy Installation: Many turkey chokes, including the ERA Head Hunter, feature an extended design that protrudes slightly from the end of the barrel. This extension serves multiple functions:
  • Protection: Helps protect the muzzle crown from incidental damage.
  • Easy Handling: Provides a gripping surface for hand-tightening and removal, even with gloved hands in the field.
  • Marketing/Brand Recognition: Often allows for branding or constriction markings to be visible, making it easy to identify the choke installed.

Mastering Your Shotgun: The Importance of Patterning

Acquiring the ERA Head Hunter JPC12B1/650 is the first step, but true optimization comes with proper patterning. Patterning your shotgun is the process of shooting at a large paper target to see how your chosen ammunition performs with your specific choke tube and shotgun.

• Why Patterning is Non-Negotiable:
  • Determining Effective Range: Reveals the maximum distance at which your shotgun, choke, and load combination can consistently deliver enough pellets into the turkey's vitals for a clean kill.
  • Optimizing Ammunition: Different turkey loads (e.g., lead, TSS, various pellet sizes) will pattern differently with the same choke. Patterning helps you find the load that delivers the most devastating pattern for your setup.
  • Building Confidence: Seeing the dense patterns on paper builds immense confidence for when a gobbler steps into range.
• How to Pattern Effectively:
  1. Choose Your Ammunition: Select several brands and types of turkey loads you intend to hunt with.
  2. Set Up Targets: Use large paper targets (e.g., 3x3 feet or larger) with a turkey head/neck outline, or a simple crosshair, at various realistic hunting distances (e.g., 20, 30, 40 yards).
  3. Shoot from a Rest: To eliminate shooter error, shoot from a solid bench rest.
  4. Analyze Patterns: After each shot, examine the target. Count the number of pellets within a 10-inch circle (representing the turkey's vital zone). Look for even distribution and adequate pellet count. The goal is typically 100+ pellets in a 10-inch circle at your maximum ethical range.
  5. Adjust and Repeat: Experiment with different loads until you find the combination that yields the most consistent and dense patterns for your specific hunting distances.
• The ERA Head Hunter Advantage in Patterning: With its precise .650 constriction, the ERA Head Hunter makes the patterning process more rewarding, as it consistently produces the tight patterns serious turkey hunters are looking for. You'll likely find that even at 40 yards, your patterns are remarkably dense and effective.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Proper installation and regular maintenance are key to the longevity and performance of your ERA Head Hunter choke tube.

• Installation:
  1. Ensure Safety: Always ensure your shotgun is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction before handling.
  2. Clean Barrel Threads: Clean the choke tube threads inside your shotgun barrel to remove any debris or old lubricant.
  3. Apply Choke Tube Grease: Apply a thin layer of choke tube grease or anti-seize compound to the external threads of the ERA Head Hunter choke tube. This prevents galling and makes future removal easier.
  4. Hand-Tighten: Screw the choke tube into the barrel by hand until it is finger-tight.
  5. Use Wrench (If Necessary): If a choke wrench is provided or required for your Invector Plus system, use it to give a final snug turn. Do not overtighten, as this can make removal difficult or damage the choke/barrel.
• Maintenance:
  1. Regular Cleaning: After each shooting session, especially after firing high-performance loads, remove the choke tube and clean both the choke and the barrel threads. Powder residue can build up and potentially "weld" the choke in place if left unaddressed.
  2. Inspect for Damage: Periodically inspect the choke tube for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Replace if any damage is noted.
  3. Re-lubricate: Always re-apply choke tube grease before re-installing the choke tube.

For hunters and shooters looking to acquire the ERA Head Hunter Invector Plus 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tube (UPC 853372004240), it is available at leading firearms retailers. For a reliable purchase and expert customer service, consider DEGuns.com. DEGuns offers a wide selection of hunting accessories, including the precision-engineered ERA Head Hunter series, ensuring you have access to the best tools for your next turkey season.

Equipping your 12 gauge Invector Plus shotgun with the ERA Head Hunter JPC12B1/650 is a strategic decision for any hunter committed to maximizing their success in the turkey woods. Its specialized .650 constriction, robust design, and compatibility with popular shotgun models make it an indispensable tool for achieving the tight, consistent patterns required for ethical and effective turkey hunting.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Choke Tubes

Q: What makes the ERA Head Hunter .650 Choke Tube different from a standard full choke?
A: A standard full choke typically has a constriction of around .035 to .040 inches. The ERA Head Hunter's .650 constriction, which translates to approximately .079 inches of constriction for a 12 gauge, is significantly tighter. This increased constriction is specifically designed to maximize pattern density and pellet count within the vital kill zone for turkey hunting, often extending the effective range compared to a standard full choke.

Q: Can I use steel shot with the ERA Head Hunter JPC12B1/650?
A: Generally, chokes this tight (.650 constriction) are not recommended for steel shot, especially large steel shot sizes, as it can potentially damage the choke or your barrel. Steel shot does not compress like lead or bismuth and can create excessive pressure or even bulge barrels with very tight constrictions. The ERA Head Hunter is primarily designed and optimized for lead, copper-plated lead, bismuth, and especially Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) for turkey hunting. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for both your choke and shotgun before using steel shot.

Q: How does the ERA Head Hunter help with long-range turkey shots?
A: The .650 constriction of the ERA Head Hunter is engineered to maintain a very tight and dense pattern much further downrange than less specialized chokes. By keeping the shot column together more efficiently, it ensures that a higher percentage of pellets hit the target at extended distances. While ethical hunting dictates knowing your maximum effective range, this choke significantly pushes that boundary, allowing for clean kills at distances where open patterns would fail.

Q: Is the matte black finish just for looks?
A: While aesthetically pleasing, the matte black finish serves practical purposes crucial for turkey hunting. It minimizes glare and reflections that could easily spook a wary gobbler in bright conditions. Additionally, it often provides an extra layer of corrosion resistance, protecting the choke tube from the elements encountered during hunting season.

Q: How often should I clean my turkey choke tube?
A: It is highly recommended to clean your turkey choke tube after every use, especially when firing high-performance turkey loads. Powder and plastic wad residue can build up quickly, potentially seizing the choke in the barrel if left unaddressed. Regular cleaning and re-application of choke tube grease will ensure easy removal and consistent performance.

Q: Will this choke tube improve my shotgun's accuracy?
A: A choke tube doesn't directly improve "accuracy" in the sense of making your gun shoot straighter, as accuracy is largely determined by the shooter and the shotgun's inherent alignment. However, a well-designed choke like the ERA Head Hunter improves pattern consistency and density, which translates to more pellets hitting the intended target area. This effectively makes your shotgun more "effective" and reliable for turkey hunting at various ranges, leading to more successful and ethical harvests.

Product Specifications Overview

Feature	Detail
Product Name	ERA Head Hunter Invector Plus Turkey Choke Tube
Gauge	12 Gauge
Constriction	.650
Finish	Matte Black
Compatibility	Invector Plus System (Browning, Winchester, select Mossberg models)
Material	High-Grade Alloy (designed for durability)
UPC	853372004240
Optimized For	Turkey Hunting (Lead, Copper-Plated, TSS loads)