Dominate the Gobbler Woods: The Ultimate Guide to the EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tube (.665)

For any serious turkey hunter, the pursuit of that elusive gobbler is a passion. It’s a challenge that demands skill, patience, and, crucially, the right equipment. The moment of truth, when a wary tom steps into range, requires absolute confidence in your gear. This is precisely where the EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tube in Matte Black with a .665 constriction becomes an indispensable asset.

Are you struggling to achieve consistent, tight patterns with your factory choke? Do you find that your effective range feels limited, costing you opportunities? Or perhaps you're simply looking to maximize your 12-gauge shotgun’s performance, ensuring every shot counts when it matters most? This specialized turkey choke tube is meticulously engineered to solve these very problems, providing the enhanced pattern density and extended reach necessary for successful turkey hunting. It's the performance upgrade that serious hunters invest in, aiming to transform their reliable shotgun into a precision turkey-dropping machine.

Why a Specialized Turkey Choke is Your Secret Weapon

Many hunters begin their journey using the factory-installed choke tube that came with their shotgun. While adequate for general bird hunting, these general-purpose chokes often fall short when it comes to the highly specific demands of turkey hunting. Turkeys are notoriously tough birds, and cleanly dispatching them requires placing a high concentration of pellets into a small target area – the head and neck. This demands a very tight, consistent pattern, something a standard modified or full choke often cannot deliver with the optimal density.

Consider these common questions from hunters:

• "Why do my patterns look sparse at 40 yards?"
• "What’s the best way to ensure maximum pellet count on a turkey’s head?"
• "How can I extend my ethical shooting range for turkeys?"
• "Are specialized chokes really worth the investment?"

The answer to these questions lies in a dedicated turkey choke like the EAR Head Hunter .665. Unlike traditional chokes, turkey-specific tubes are designed with tighter constrictions and often incorporate advanced features to strip wads cleanly and keep shot payloads incredibly dense downrange. This focused design is precisely what allows you to achieve patterns that are lethal at distances where general-purpose chokes would leave significant gaps, potentially leading to wounded birds or missed opportunities. Investing in a specialized turkey choke isn't just an upgrade; it's a strategic move to significantly increase your success rate and ensure ethical, clean kills.

Unleashing Your Shotgun's True Potential: The Head Hunter Advantage

The EAR JPC12C1665 Head Hunter Turkey Choke Tube is engineered with a singular purpose: to deliver unparalleled pattern performance for turkey hunting. Let's delve into the features that make this choke a standout choice:

Precision Constriction: The .665 Difference

The .665 constriction is a critical specification for this choke tube. In 12-gauge turkey chokes, constriction refers to the internal diameter of the choke at its narrowest point. A smaller number indicates a tighter constriction, meaning the choke squeezes the shot column more. For turkey hunting, tighter is generally better, as it concentrates the pellets into a smaller, more lethal pattern. The .665 constriction is renowned for its ability to produce incredibly dense patterns, particularly when paired with modern high-performance turkey loads, including those featuring Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), lead, or various blended shot types.

What does this mean for the hunter?

• Superior Pattern Density: You’ll see a dramatic increase in the number of pellets within a 10-inch circle at typical turkey hunting ranges (30-50 yards). This ensures more pellets impact the head and neck, crucial for anchoring a gobbler.
• Extended Effective Range: With a denser pattern, your ethical killing range can be extended, allowing you to take shots with confidence that might be risky with a less-optimized choke.
• Consistent Performance: This specific constriction is carefully chosen to balance pellet deformation (which can happen with overly tight chokes) with maximum pattern concentration.

Durable Construction: 17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel

The EAR Head Hunter choke is machined from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel. This premium material is chosen for several key reasons:

• Exceptional Strength: It can withstand the immense pressures generated by modern magnum turkey loads without deforming or failing.
• Corrosion Resistance: Hunting environments are often wet and demanding. Stainless steel provides excellent resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring the choke's longevity and reliable performance season after season.
• Durability: The heat treatment further enhances its hardness and wear resistance, maintaining its precise internal dimensions shot after shot. This means your patterns will remain consistent, even after extensive use.

The Matte Black Finish: Practicality in the Field

The matte black finish isn't just for aesthetics; it serves a crucial functional purpose for hunters. A non-reflective finish helps to:

• Prevent Glare: In varying light conditions, a matte finish reduces reflections that could potentially spook wary turkeys.
• Increase Camouflage: It seamlessly blends with most shotgun finishes, maintaining a low profile in the field.
• Enhance Durability: The finish itself often provides an additional layer of protection against scratches and minor abrasions.

Ported Design: Managing Recoil and Optimizing Patterns

One of the standout features of the EAR JPC12C1665 Head Hunter choke is its ported design. These strategically placed ports near the muzzle end of the choke serve multiple functions:

• Recoil Reduction: As the shot and wad exit the barrel and pass through the ports, gases are diverted upwards and outwards. This acts as a muzzle brake, significantly reducing felt recoil. For hunters firing heavy 12-gauge magnum turkey loads, this is a substantial benefit, allowing for quicker follow-up shots (if needed) and reducing shooter fatigue.
• Wad Stripping: The ports also assist in cleanly stripping the wad from the shot column. A clean wad separation is critical for achieving tight, uniform patterns, as a wad clinging to the shot can disrupt its flight and open up the pattern.
• Reduced Muzzle Jump: By directing gases, the ports also help mitigate muzzle rise, contributing to a more stable shooting experience.

Optimizing Your Hunt: Real-World Scenarios and Best Practices

Acquiring the right choke tube is the first step; understanding how to optimize its performance is the next. The EAR Head Hunter Invector .665 is designed for peak performance, but pairing it with the right ammunition and proper patterning techniques is essential.

Ammunition Pairing: The Key to Devastating Patterns

This choke is versatile, designed to perform exceptionally well with a variety of 12-gauge turkey loads:

• Tungsten Super Shot (TSS): Renowned for its incredibly dense patterns and high energy retention, TSS pairs exceptionally well with a tight constriction like .665. The hardness of TSS allows it to maintain its spherical shape through the choke, leading to extremely tight patterns and extended effective ranges. If you're using TSS, this choke is an ideal match.
• Lead Shot: Traditional lead turkey loads, especially heavier payloads (e.g., 2 oz, 2.25 oz), will also see a significant improvement in pattern density and uniformity.
• Hevi-Shot & Other Blended Loads: Many other specialized turkey loads, which use various alloys or blends, will also perform optimally through this choke. The key is to experiment.

How to Choose Your Ammo: Begin with the shot size recommended for turkey hunting (typically #4, #5, #6 lead, or smaller for TSS like #7, #8, #9). The EAR Head Hunter .665 is built to handle the higher pressures and demands of these specialized loads.

Patterning Your Shotgun: The Non-Negotiable Step

Patterning is crucial. It’s the process of shooting your shotgun at a target to see how your chosen choke and ammunition combination performs.

1. Set Up: Use a large sheet of paper or cardboard (at least 3x3 feet) with a turkey head/neck target drawn or affixed to the center.
2. Distance: Start at a realistic hunting distance, typically 30-40 yards. Test at various ranges (e.g., 20, 30, 40, 50 yards) to understand your maximum ethical range.
3. Shoot: Fire three to five shots at the target, aiming consistently at the center.
4. Analyze: Draw a 10-inch circle around the densest part of your pattern (which should ideally be centered on your aim point). Count the pellets within that circle, particularly those that would hit the vital area of a turkey’s head and neck. Look for uniformity and a lack of "holes" or gaps in the pattern.

The goal with your EAR Head Hunter .665 is to achieve a dense, evenly distributed pattern of 100+ pellets (for 3-inch loads, more for 3.5-inch) within that 10-inch circle at your chosen maximum effective range. This meticulous process builds confidence and ensures you know precisely what your shotgun and choke are capable of in the field.

Maintenance for Longevity

Caring for your choke tube ensures its continued performance.

• Regular Cleaning: After each use, especially with heavy loads, remove the choke tube and clean it thoroughly to prevent lead, plastic wad residue, or carbon buildup. A bronze brush and solvent work well.
• Lubrication: Apply a thin layer of choke tube grease or anti-seize compound to the threads before reinserting it. This prevents galling and makes removal easier.
• Proper Storage: Store your choke in a clean, dry environment.

Investing in Success: Unique Value Propositions

The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tube (.665) isn't just another accessory; it's a strategic investment in your hunting success.

• Unrivaled Pattern Performance: This choke is specifically designed to deliver patterns that dramatically increase your odds of a clean, ethical kill. Its .665 constriction and ported design work in harmony to produce a dense, consistent shot curtain.
• Confidence in Every Shot: Knowing your equipment is optimized for the task at hand instills tremendous confidence. You'll approach each encounter with a gobbler knowing your shotgun is performing at its absolute best.
• Built to Endure: Constructed from 17-4 heat treated stainless steel with a durable matte black finish, this choke tube is engineered for a lifetime of rigorous use in challenging outdoor conditions. It resists corrosion, withstands high pressures, and maintains its precise dimensions season after season.
• Enhanced Shooting Comfort: The ported design actively reduces felt recoil, making follow-up shots more manageable and enhancing overall shooting comfort during patterning and in the field. This can be especially beneficial when firing high-velocity magnum turkey loads.
• A Reputation for Excellence: Products like the EAR Head Hunter series are developed by experts who understand the nuances of shotgun ballistics and the specific needs of turkey hunters. This expertise translates directly into superior field performance.

When you're out in the woods, hours into a hunt, calling in a wary tom, the last thing you want to worry about is your equipment. The EAR JPC12C1665 removes that worry, allowing you to focus on the hunt itself, secure in the knowledge that your shotgun is ready to deliver when the opportunity arises.

Compatibility and Installation Guide

The EAR Head Hunter Turkey Choke Tube is designed for 12-gauge shotguns that utilize the Invector, Invector-Plus, WinChoke, or Accu-Choke systems. It is crucial to verify your shotgun's choke system compatibility before purchase. Most modern Browning, Winchester, and Mossberg 500 series shotguns (among others) utilize one of these widely adopted systems. If unsure, consult your shotgun's manual or a qualified gunsmith.

Simple Installation:

1. Safety First: Always ensure your shotgun is unloaded and the chamber is clear before handling choke tubes.
2. Remove Existing Choke: Using a choke tube wrench (often supplied with your shotgun or available separately), unscrew your existing choke tube counter-clockwise until it is free.
3. Clean Barrel Threads: It's a good practice to clean the internal threads of your shotgun barrel to remove any carbon buildup or debris.
4. Apply Lubricant: Apply a thin layer of choke tube grease or anti-seize compound to the threads of the EAR Head Hunter choke tube. This prevents galling and ensures easy removal later.
5. Insert and Tighten: Carefully screw the new EAR Head Hunter .665 choke tube into the barrel clockwise by hand until it is finger-tight. Then, use your choke tube wrench to snug it down firmly. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the threads or the choke. A good snug fit is all that is required.
6. Verify Flush Fit: Ensure the choke tube is fully seated and flush (or slightly extended, if designed as such) with the muzzle.

With these simple steps, your shotgun will be ready for patterning and, ultimately, for the turkey woods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Chokes

Here are some common questions hunters ask about specialized turkey chokes:

Q: What is the ideal range for shooting turkeys with this choke?
A: With the EAR Head Hunter .665 and proper ammunition, many hunters can achieve ethical patterns out to 40-50 yards. However, your specific range depends on your shotgun, ammunition choice, and patterning results. Always pattern your shotgun at various distances to determine your maximum effective range.

Q: Can I use steel shot with this choke?
A: Generally, chokes designed for lead or TSS should not be used with steel shot, especially tight constrictions. Steel is harder than lead and can damage tighter chokes not specifically rated for it. Always consult the choke manufacturer's guidelines. The EAR Head Hunter .665 is optimized for lead, tungsten, and other non-toxic alloys, not steel.

Q: How often should I clean my turkey choke tube?
A: It's recommended to clean your choke tube after every hunting trip or extensive patterning session. Regular cleaning prevents buildup that can affect performance and make removal difficult.

Q: Is a ported choke really better than a non-ported one?
A: For magnum turkey loads, a ported choke like the EAR Head Hunter offers distinct advantages. The ports significantly reduce felt recoil and muzzle jump, making the shooting experience more comfortable and potentially allowing for quicker recovery between shots. They also aid in wad stripping for tighter patterns.

Q: What does ".665 constriction" mean in simple terms?
A: It's the internal diameter of the choke at its tightest point. A smaller number means a tighter squeeze on the shot, leading to a denser pattern for turkey hunting. The .665 is a highly popular and effective constriction for 12-gauge turkey loads.

Q: Will this choke improve my pattern even with basic turkey loads?
A: While optimized for premium loads, the EAR Head Hunter .665 will almost certainly improve your pattern density and consistency even with standard turkey loads compared to a general-purpose choke. The tight constriction and wad-stripping design are beneficial across a range of ammunition.

Q: Where can I find this specific choke tube?
A: The EAR JPC12C1665 Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Matte Black .665 choke tube, along with a wide array of other premium hunting accessories, is available at DEGuns, your trusted source for firearm solutions and upgrades.

Elevate Your Turkey Hunting Game

The pursuit of wild turkeys is a tradition steeped in skill and passion. Giving yourself every advantage, from meticulous scouting to precise shot placement, is paramount. The EAR Head Hunter Invector 12 Gauge Turkey Choke Tube (.665) represents a significant upgrade that directly impacts your success rate. It’s a precision-engineered tool designed to deliver the tight, devastating patterns required to consistently put gobblers in the bag. By ensuring maximum pellet concentration and optimal energy transfer, this choke tube empowers you to make ethical, confident shots, transforming near-misses into successful hunts.

Invest in the performance that serious hunters rely on. Equip your 12-gauge with the EAR Head Hunter .665 and experience the true potential of your shotgun in the turkey woods.

---

Product Specifications

Feature	Description
Product Name	EAR Head Hunter Turkey Choke Tube
Gauge	12 Gauge
Constriction	.665
Finish	Matte Black
Material	17-4 Heat Treated Stainless Steel
Compatibility	Invector, WinChoke, Accu-Choke (12 Gauge)
Special Features	Ported for Recoil Reduction and Wad Stripping
UPC	723189006659
Model Number	JPC12C1665
Availability	Available at DEGuns