Enhancing Your Shotgun Performance: The Winchester Invector-Plus 12 Gauge Skeet Choke Tube

Are you a dedicated shotgun enthusiast looking to achieve consistently tighter patterns, improve your clay target scores, or simply enhance your overall shooting accuracy? Whether you're a competitive skeet shooter, a sporting clays aficionado, or a bird hunter seeking to optimize your close-range shots, the choice of your choke tube can profoundly impact your performance. In the world of shotgunning, precision at the muzzle is paramount, and the Winchester Repeating Arms 613055 Invector-Plus 12 Gauge Skeet Choke Tube, crafted from robust 17-4 Stainless Steel, stands out as a premium solution designed to deliver exceptional results. This essential accessory is specifically engineered to solve the common challenges of inconsistent shot patterns and gas leakage, ensuring every pull of the trigger translates into superior on-target performance.

Understanding the Critical Role of a Shotgun Choke Tube

For many new shotgun owners or those exploring accessories, the function of a choke tube might seem minor, but it is, in fact, a cornerstone of shotgun ballistics. A choke tube is a removable constriction at the muzzle end of a shotgun barrel, designed to control the spread of the shot pattern. By varying the degree of constriction, shooters can tailor their shotgun's performance to different shooting disciplines, target distances, and ammunition types. Without the proper choke, your shotgun's shot pattern might be too wide for distant targets, leading to missed opportunities, or too tight for close-range shots, resulting in over-choking and difficulty hitting fast-moving targets.

Why Consistency Matters: The Problem of Shot Pattern Dispersion

One of the biggest frustrations for shotgunners is an unpredictable shot pattern. Factors like inconsistent shot distribution, "fliers" (individual pellets that stray significantly from the main pattern), and gas escaping between the choke tube and the barrel can all contribute to missed targets and a less satisfying shooting experience. These issues not only reduce your hit probability but also waste ammunition and can even damage your barrel or choke over time due to gas erosion. The Winchester Invector-Plus system directly addresses these concerns, providing a reliable and durable solution for superior pattern control.

Introducing Winchester Invector-Plus Technology: A Leap in Shotgun Performance

The Winchester Invector-Plus interchangeable choke tube system is a hallmark of intelligent firearm engineering, working in perfect synergy with back-bored barrels to deliver unparalleled shot pattern consistency and density. Unlike conventional choke systems, Invector-Plus chokes are specifically designed with a longer, more gradual taper. This extended taper is critical because it allows the shot column to transition more smoothly from the bore into the constricted area of the choke. This gradual compression minimizes pellet deformation and reduces the likelihood of "fliers," leading to a much more uniform and effective shot pattern.

The Science Behind Superior Patterns: Longer Taper and Back-Boring

When discussing shotgun performance, two terms frequently arise in conjunction with Invector-Plus: "longer choke taper" and "back-boring."

• Longer Choke Taper: As mentioned, this gradual funneling of the shot column is key. It ensures that the pellets are not abruptly squeezed, which can deform them and lead to erratic flight paths. The result is a more uniform distribution of pellets within the pattern, increasing your chances of hitting your target with sufficient pellet count.
• Back-Boring: Many modern Winchester shotguns feature back-bored barrels, which means the internal diameter of the barrel is slightly enlarged beyond standard specifications. This slight increase in bore diameter reduces friction on the shot column as it travels down the barrel, minimizing pellet deformation even further. When combined with the Invector-Plus choke's longer taper, back-boring creates an exceptionally efficient system for pattern generation, ensuring maximum pellet energy retention and superior pattern densities. This synergy is what sets the Invector-Plus system apart, translating directly into more broken clays and dropped birds.

Eliminating Gas Leakage: Protecting Your Investment

A lesser-known but equally important benefit of the Invector-Plus design is its ability to prevent gases from slipping between the choke tube and the barrel. This "gas blow-by" is a common problem with poorly fitted or older choke systems, and it can cause significant damage over time. Hot, high-pressure gases eroding the steel of both the choke tube and the barrel can lead to pitting, corrosion, and ultimately, a compromised firearm. The precision fit and design of the Winchester Invector-Plus choke tubes create a superior seal, effectively eliminating gas leakage and safeguarding the longevity of your valuable shotgun. This protective feature alone makes the Invector-Plus an essential upgrade for any serious shooter concerned about maintaining their firearm's integrity.

Optimized for Skeet: The .005 Constriction Advantage

The Winchester 613055 Invector-Plus choke tube features a "Skeet" constriction type, precisely engineered with a .005 constriction diameter. This specific level of constriction is not arbitrary; it is meticulously designed for particular shooting scenarios where a wider, yet still dense, pattern is desired.

• What is Skeet Constriction? In the hierarchy of choke constrictions (ranging from Cylinder, Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Light Modified, Modified, Improved Modified, Full, and Extra Full), "Skeet" is one of the most open options. It provides a relatively wide pattern, making it forgiving for fast-moving targets at close ranges, typically within 20-30 yards.
• Ideal for Close-Range Precision: For the highly dynamic sport of skeet shooting, targets appear at varying angles and speeds, often at very close distances. The Skeet choke's open pattern ensures a higher probability of hitting these targets without over-choking them, which could lead to excessively dense patterns that are too difficult to center on a small, fast-moving target. The recommended effective range for this particular choke is approximately 30 yards, making it perfect for the close-in shots encountered on a skeet field. Beyond skeet, it's also excellent for the close presentations often seen in sporting clays, particularly stations with incoming or quartering targets at short distances, or for hunting upland game birds like quail or flushing pheasants where quick, spreading patterns are advantageous.

The Strength of 17-4 Stainless Steel: Durability Meets Performance

The material composition of a choke tube is just as critical as its design. The Winchester Invector-Plus choke is constructed from 17-4 Stainless Steel, a material renowned for its exceptional properties, particularly in high-stress, corrosive environments.

• Superior Strength and Hardness: 17-4 Stainless Steel is a precipitation-hardening martensitic stainless steel, known for its outstanding strength and hardness. This makes it incredibly resistant to the repeated impacts and pressures exerted by thousands of shotgun shells.
• Corrosion Resistance: Shotgunning often involves exposure to various environmental elements – moisture, dust, and even the corrosive byproducts of ammunition combustion. 17-4 Stainless Steel offers excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring that your choke tube maintains its integrity and appearance even after extensive use in diverse weather conditions. This means less worry about rust and longer product lifespan.
• Durability for Longevity: The combination of strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance translates directly into a choke tube that is built to last. Investing in a Winchester Invector-Plus choke means investing in a durable accessory that will withstand the rigors of competitive shooting or demanding hunting seasons for years to come. It’s engineered to perform consistently, shot after shot, season after season.

Seamless Integration and Broad Ammunition Compatibility

Designed as a "Flush" style choke, the Winchester Invector-Plus 12 Gauge Skeet Choke tube fits neatly within your barrel, creating a clean, snag-free profile. This flush design is favored by many shooters who prefer a streamlined appearance and easy handling without any protruding parts. Importantly, this choke tube is approved for use with a wide range of ammunition types: Steel, Lead, and Non-Tox shot. This versatility is a significant advantage, allowing shooters to confidently use their preferred ammunition without concern for damaging the choke tube. Whether you're practicing with lead shot, complying with steel shot regulations for waterfowl hunting, or using other non-toxic alternatives, this choke tube is designed to handle it all, providing exceptional flexibility for diverse shooting needs.

Optimal Applications and Scenarios for the Winchester Invector-Plus Skeet Choke

When considering which choke to use, it's helpful to think about the specific scenarios where the Winchester Invector-Plus 12 Gauge Skeet Choke Tube truly excels.

• Skeet Shooting: This is its namesake discipline. For the dynamic, close-range targets of a skeet field, the Skeet choke's open pattern ensures that you can effectively engage targets that are often as close as 10-15 yards and rarely beyond 25-30 yards. It provides the perfect balance of pattern spread and density needed for consistently breaking clays.
• Close-Range Sporting Clays: Many sporting clays courses feature stations with targets presented at very close quarters, or those that pop up suddenly and require an immediate response. The Skeet choke is an excellent choice for these scenarios, offering a wider margin for error on snap shots.
• Upland Bird Hunting: For hunters pursuing fast-flushing birds like quail, grouse, or woodcock in dense cover, a wide, fast-spreading pattern is often more effective. The Skeet choke allows for quick, instinctive shots at birds that explode from cover close to the hunter, increasing the likelihood of a clean kill. It's also suitable for close-range dove hunting.
• Training and Practice: For new shooters or those looking to build confidence, using a Skeet choke can be beneficial. The wider pattern offers a bit more forgiveness, making it easier to connect with targets and build fundamental skills before moving to tighter constrictions.

Maintaining Your Winchester Invector-Plus Choke Tube

Proper care and maintenance are vital for maximizing the lifespan and performance of any choke tube.

1. Regular Cleaning: After each shooting session, remove your choke tube and clean it thoroughly. Carbon and plastic wad residue can build up, making removal difficult and potentially affecting performance. Use a good quality choke tube brush and solvent.
2. Lubrication: Before re-installing, apply a thin layer of choke tube grease or anti-seize compound to the threads. This prevents the choke tube from seizing in the barrel and makes future removal much easier.
3. Proper Installation: Always ensure your choke tube is tightened securely. Finger-tight, followed by a slight turn with a choke wrench, is generally sufficient. Overtightening can cause damage, while a loose choke can lead to gas leakage and inconsistent patterns.

Why Choose the Winchester Invector-Plus Skeet Choke?

The Winchester Repeating Arms 613055 Invector-Plus 12 Gauge Skeet Choke Tube is more than just an accessory; it's an investment in superior shooting performance. It solves fundamental problems for shotgunners by:

• Delivering Consistent, Dense Patterns: Thanks to the longer choke taper and back-boring compatibility, you'll experience fewer fliers and more uniform shot distribution.
• Protecting Your Firearm: The superior fit eliminates gas blow-by, safeguarding your barrel and choke from damage.
• Optimizing for Specific Disciplines: The Skeet constriction is perfectly tuned for close-range targets, enhancing your success in skeet, sporting clays, and upland bird hunting.
• Ensuring Durability: Crafted from premium 17-4 Stainless Steel, it offers exceptional strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance for long-term reliability.
• Offering Versatility: Approved for Steel, Lead, and Non-Tox shot, it adapts to your ammunition needs.

For shooters seeking to elevate their game and experience the full potential of their 12-gauge shotgun, the Winchester Invector-Plus Skeet Choke Tube is an indispensable addition to your gear bag. It's a testament to Winchester's commitment to quality and innovation, ensuring that every shot counts.

Where to Acquire Your Winchester Invector-Plus Choke Tube

For those ready to upgrade their shotgun's performance, the Winchester Repeating Arms 613055 Invector-Plus 12 Gauge Skeet Choke Tube is available from reputable firearms retailers. You can find this essential accessory and a wide range of other shooting sports equipment at DEGuns.com, a trusted source for quality firearms and accessories.

Feature	Detail
Brand	Winchester Repeating Arms
Model	Invector Plus
Gauge	12 Gauge
Material	17-4 Stainless Steel
Constriction Diameter	.005
Recommended For	30 yds
Constriction Type	Skeet
Style	Flush
Approved Ammunition	Steel, Lead, Non-Tox
Chokes Included	1
Weight	3.20 oz
Configuration	Invector-Plus
SKU	43153
UPC	048702186011
MPN	613055