Mastering Shotgun Precision: An In-Depth Look at the REM Arms R19153 12 Gauge Full Choke Tube

For serious shotgunners, hunters, and competitive shooters, achieving optimal accuracy and shot pattern consistency is paramount. Whether you’re aiming for a challenging turkey at extended range, breaking clays on the trap line, or bringing down fast-flying upland birds, the right choke tube can make all the difference. This comprehensive guide delves into the specifics of the REM Arms Accessories R19153 Rem Choke Tube, a vital component for anyone looking to fine-tune their 12-gauge shotgun's performance, particularly when utilizing traditional lead ammunition.

This specific choke tube (UPC: 885293191531) stands out due to its precise Full constriction, durable 17-4 Stainless Steel construction, and dedicated design for lead shot only. Understanding its capabilities and limitations is key to unlocking your shotgun's true potential and ensuring safety.

Understanding the Role of a Shotgun Choke Tube: Why Precision Matters

Before diving into the specifics of the REM Arms R19153, let's establish a foundational understanding of what a shotgun choke tube is and why it's so critical.

A choke tube is a removable or fixed constriction at the muzzle end of a shotgun barrel. Its primary function is to control the spread of the shot pellets after they leave the barrel. Without any choke, pellets would disperse very rapidly, leading to a wide, less dense pattern at even short distances. By narrowing the barrel slightly, a choke tube keeps the pellet swarm tighter, allowing for more pellets to impact the target within a given area at longer ranges.

Different levels of constriction, known as choke "patterns" or "degrees," are designed for various shooting scenarios:

• Cylinder/Skeet 1: Widest spread, ideal for very close targets (e.g., skeet, close-range birds).
• Improved Cylinder: Slightly tighter than cylinder, good for close to medium ranges (e.g., dove, quail, close sporting clays).
• Modified: A versatile, all-around choke, suitable for most hunting and sporting applications (e.g., pheasant, duck, general trap/skeet).
• Full: The tightest common choke, designed for maximum range and dense patterns.
• Extra Full/Turkey Choke: Even tighter than Full, specifically for maximum pellet concentration at extreme ranges, often used for turkey hunting.

The choice of choke directly impacts your effective range, the density of your pellet pattern, and ultimately, your success in the field or on the range.

The Strategic Advantage of a Full Choke Constriction

The REM Arms R19153 is a Full choke. What does this mean for your shooting?

A Full choke typically delivers approximately 70% of the shot pellets within a 30-inch circle at a range of 40 yards. This represents a significant constriction, resulting in the densest pattern achievable among standard choke types. This tight pattern offers several distinct advantages:

1. Extended Effective Range: By keeping the pellet swarm concentrated, a Full choke allows you to effectively engage targets at greater distances than looser chokes. This is particularly beneficial when hunting wary game or shooting at challenging clays.
2. Increased Pellet Density: A dense pattern ensures that more pellets strike the target, increasing the likelihood of a clean kill for hunters or a decisive break for sport shooters. This is crucial for small, tough targets or those requiring maximum impact.
3. Predictable Patterning: For experienced shooters, understanding the precise pattern of their Full choke with a specific load allows for highly accurate shot placement and consistent results.

While highly effective, the tightness of a Full choke also means that precise aim is more critical. There's less room for error compared to wider patterns.

Unveiling the REM Arms R19153 Rem Choke Tube (UPC: 885293191531): Designed for Peak Performance

The REM Arms Accessories R19153 Rem Choke Tube is engineered to meet the demands of serious shotgun enthusiasts. This particular model, identified by its part number R19153 and UPC 885293191531, is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotguns utilizing the popular Rem Choke system.

Crafted for Durability: The 17-4 Stainless Steel Advantage

One of the standout features of the REM Arms R19153 choke tube is its construction from 17-4 Stainless Steel. This material choice is a testament to REM Arms' commitment to quality and longevity.

• What is 17-4 Stainless Steel? It's a precipitation-hardening martensitic stainless steel, known for its exceptional combination of high strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance. It maintains its properties even at elevated temperatures.
• Why is this important for a choke tube?
  • Durability: Shotgun chokes endure immense pressure and friction as pellets pass through them. 17-4 Stainless Steel can withstand these forces, resisting wear, deformation, and erosion over thousands of shots.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Exposure to moisture, gun cleaning solvents, and even the residue from burnt powder can lead to corrosion. The stainless steel composition prevents rust and pitting, ensuring the choke maintains its smooth interior and precise dimensions for consistent patterning.
  • Consistent Performance: The material's stability ensures that the choke's internal dimensions remain true, guaranteeing reliable and repeatable shot patterns every time you pull the trigger. This contributes directly to improved accuracy and confidence in your firearm.

This robust material ensures that the REM Arms R19153 choke tube is a long-lasting investment that will consistently perform in demanding conditions.

The "Lead Only" Specification: Understanding Its Role and Relevance

A critical detail for the REM Arms R19153 is its designation as "Lead Only." This is not a suggestion; it's a vital safety and performance specification.

• Why Lead Only? Lead shot is relatively soft. When it passes through the constriction of a Full choke, the pellets can deform slightly, allowing them to squeeze through without excessive pressure buildup or damage to the barrel or choke.
• The Danger of Non-Toxic Shot (e.g., Steel, Tungsten) with a Lead-Only Choke: Non-toxic shots like steel, bismuth, or various tungsten alloys are significantly harder than lead. If used in a lead-only choke, especially a tight Full constriction:
  • Damage to the Choke Tube: The harder pellets can score, scratch, or even crack the choke tube.
  • Damage to the Shotgun Barrel: More critically, the hard shot can "ring" or bulge the shotgun barrel just behind the choke, leading to permanent damage and unsafe conditions.
  • Unpredictable Patterns: Harder shot may not deform optimally, leading to poor and inconsistent patterns.

Therefore, it is imperative to only use lead shot ammunition with the REM Arms R19153 Full choke. Always verify your ammunition type before shooting.

Given the "Lead Only" restriction, the primary applications for this choke tube are scenarios where lead shot is still permissible and preferred:

• Turkey Hunting: Lead shot remains popular for turkeys due to its density and energy transfer.
• Upland Game Hunting (Pheasant, Quail, Grouse): Many upland areas allow lead shot.
• Trap and Sporting Clays: Most clay target shooting disciplines exclusively use lead shot.
• General Target Shooting: When practicing or patterning with lead loads.

It is crucial to be aware that lead shot is prohibited for waterfowl hunting in many regions due to environmental concerns. If you plan to hunt waterfowl, you will need to use a choke tube specifically rated for steel or other non-toxic shot.

Compatibility and System Integration: The Rem Choke Legacy

The REM Arms R19153 is part of the widely adopted Rem Choke system. This means it is compatible with a vast array of Remington (now REM Arms) 12-gauge shotguns that feature this interchangeable choke tube system. Common models include:

• Remington 870: One of the most popular pump-action shotguns ever made.
• Remington 1100: A classic gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun.
• Remington 11-87: A gas-operated semi-automatic, often seen as an evolution of the 1100.
• Remington Versa Max: A modern, versatile semi-automatic.

The Rem Choke system is known for its ease of use, allowing shooters to quickly change chokes in the field or on the range to adapt to different shooting requirements. Simply insert a choke wrench into the notches, unscrew the old choke, and screw in the new one.

Who Benefits Most from the REM Arms R19153 Full Choke?

This specific choke tube is an indispensable tool for several types of shotgunners:

• The Dedicated Turkey Hunter: Turkey hunting demands precision. A tight pattern ensures maximum pellet count in the turkey's head and neck vital zone, leading to clean, ethical kills, even at 40+ yards. The R19153 is an excellent choice for this pursuit, especially when paired with specialized turkey loads.
• The Upland Game Hunter Seeking Extended Range: While many upland birds are taken at moderate distances, a full choke can be advantageous for wary pheasants or for making those longer, crossing shots on grouse or sharptails where lead shot is allowed.
• The Competitive Trap Shooter: For trap singles and handicap lines, consistency at 40 yards and beyond is crucial. The Full choke delivers the dense, hard-hitting patterns needed to consistently break clays into small, scoreable pieces.
• The Sporting Clays Enthusiast: While Sporting Clays often calls for more open chokes, specific long-range stations, or those simulating distant waterfowl, can benefit from the tight pattern of a Full choke.
• Any Shooter Desiring Maximum Downrange Energy with Lead Shot: If your objective is to maximize the impact and penetration of your lead shot pellets, whether for pest control (where legal) or specific target applications, this choke is designed for that purpose.

Optimizing Your Shotgun Setup: More Than Just a Choke

While the REM Arms R19153 Full choke is a powerful tool, it's part of a larger system. To truly optimize your shotgun performance, consider these factors:

1. Ammunition Selection: Different loads (shot size, dram equivalent/velocity) will pattern differently through the same choke. Experiment with various lead loads to find the one that delivers the most consistent and dense pattern for your specific choke and intended use. Patterning your shotgun at different distances is essential.
2. Shooting Technique: Proper gun fit, consistent mount, and smooth swing are far more important than any accessory. A choke tube enhances an already sound shooting foundation.
3. Barrel Length: While not directly adjustable, understanding how your barrel length interacts with your choke and load can inform your overall setup.

The choke tube acts as a fine-tuning instrument, allowing you to tailor your shotgun's performance to specific hunting or shooting scenarios, maximizing the effectiveness of your lead ammunition.

Maintaining Your Investment: Care for Your 17-4 Stainless Steel Choke Tube

To ensure your REM Arms R19153 choke tube provides years of reliable performance, proper maintenance is essential.

• Regular Cleaning: Carbon and lead buildup can accumulate inside the choke, affecting patterning and potentially making it difficult to remove. After each shooting session, especially if you've fired many rounds, remove the choke and clean it thoroughly. A stiff bristle brush and a good bore solvent designed for lead fouling will be effective.
• Lubrication: Before reinserting the choke, apply a light coat of anti-seize compound or a good quality gun grease to the threads. This prevents the choke from seizing in the barrel due to heat expansion and carbon buildup, making future removal easy.
• Proper Installation: Always ensure the choke tube is tightened securely with a choke wrench. Hand-tightening is insufficient and can lead to the choke loosening during firing. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the threads.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect the choke tube for any signs of wear, pitting, or damage. If you notice any anomalies, especially after accidentally using incorrect shot type, consult a qualified gunsmith before further use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Shotgun Chokes and the REM Arms R19153

Here are some common questions prospective buyers and shotgun enthusiasts often ask:

Q: What is the primary difference between a full choke and an extra full choke?
A: Both are very tight, but an Extra Full (or Turkey Choke) is typically even tighter than a Full choke. While a Full might yield around 70% pattern density at 40 yards, an Extra Full could push 80% or more, resulting in an even denser pattern within a smaller circle. Extra Full chokes are almost exclusively used for turkey hunting or very specific long-range target shooting.

Q: Can I use steel shot with the REM Arms R19153 choke?
A: No, absolutely not. The REM Arms R19153 is explicitly marked "Lead Only." Using steel or other non-toxic (and harder) shot types in this choke can damage both the choke tube and, more importantly, your shotgun barrel. Always ensure you are using lead shot ammunition with this specific choke tube.

Q: How often should I clean my choke tube?
A: It's best practice to remove and clean your choke tube after every significant shooting session. Lead and carbon can build up quickly, especially with tighter chokes, potentially impacting performance and making removal difficult if left unaddressed.

Q: How do I know which choke tube is right for my shotgun?
A: First, determine your shotgun's gauge (e.g., 12 gauge, 20 gauge). Then, identify the choke system it uses (e.g., Rem Choke, Invector, Mobilchoke). Finally, select the choke constriction (e.g., Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder) based on your intended use (e.g., turkey hunting, trap shooting, dove hunting). The REM Arms R19153 is for 12-gauge shotguns with the Rem Choke system.

Q: What shotguns is the Rem Choke system compatible with?
A: The Rem Choke system is compatible with many Remington 12-gauge shotguns, including popular models like the Remington 870, Remington 1100, Remington 11-87, and Remington Versa Max. Always verify your specific shotgun model's compatibility.

Q: Where can I purchase genuine REM Arms accessories like this choke tube?
A: When you're searching for reliable firearm accessories, including the REM Arms R19153 Full Choke Tube (UPC: 885293191531), look no further than DEGuns. They are a trusted source for a wide range of shooting sports equipment and ensure you receive authentic, high-quality products.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Shotgun Performance with the REM Arms R19153

The REM Arms Accessories R19153 Rem Choke Tube is more than just a piece of metal; it's a precision instrument designed to optimize your 12-gauge shotgun for specific, demanding scenarios where a tight, dense pattern is essential. Its robust 17-4 Stainless Steel construction guarantees durability and consistent performance, while its Full constriction (for lead shot only) empowers shooters to achieve maximum range and pellet density.

Whether you're calling in a gobbler, squaring off against challenging clays, or pursuing wary upland game, this choke tube offers the reliability and performance serious shotgunners demand. By understanding its capabilities, adhering to its "Lead Only" specification, and maintaining it properly, you can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and success.

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Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Product Type	Rem Choke Tube
Manufacturer	REM Arms Accessories
Model Number	R19153
Gauge	12 Gauge
Choke Constriction	Full
Material	17-4 Stainless Steel
Shot Compatibility	Lead Shot Only
UPC	885293191531
System	Rem Choke Compatible
Availability	Available at DEGuns