Is a Mossberg 500 12 gauge a good gun?

The Mossberg 500 12 gauge shotgun is generally considered a good firearm for various purposes, including hunting, home defense, and sporting uses. Here are some reasons why it is often regarded positively:

1. **Reliability**: The Mossberg 500 is known for its durable construction and reliability in various conditions. It has a reputation for being a workhorse.

2. **Versatility**: It can be used for different purposes by simply changing the barrel or the type of ammunition. This makes it suitable for hunting, clay shooting, and personal defense.

3. **Affordability**: Compared to some other shotguns, the Mossberg 500 is relatively affordable, providing good value for money.

4. **Ease of Use**: It has a straightforward design, making it easy to operate for both beginners and experienced shooters.

5. **Aftermarket Support**: There is a wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories available, allowing for customization and improvement according to personal preferences.

However, whether it’s the right gun for you depends on your specific needs and preferences, such as what you plan to use it for, your budget, and your personal comfort with the shotgun. It’s always a good idea to handle the firearm yourself or consult with experts to see if it fits your requirements.

How many rounds does a Mossberg 500A hold?

The Mossberg 500A typically has a magazine tube capacity of 5 to 8 rounds, depending on the model and the shell length. Most standard models hold 5+1 rounds using 2 3/4-inch shells. However, there are extended magazine versions that can hold more. Always check the specific variant for its exact capacity.

How old is a Mossberg 500A?

The Mossberg 500A is a variant of the Mossberg 500 series, which was first introduced in 1960. Without a specific manufacturing year for a particular 500A model, it’s impossible to determine the exact age of the shotgun. However, since the series began in 1960, a Mossberg 500A could be up to 63 years old as of 2023.

Is a Mossberg 500 good for home defense?

Yes, the Mossberg 500 is considered a good option for home defense. It is a reliable and versatile pump-action shotgun known for its durability and ease of use. It offers various barrel and stock configurations, making it adaptable for different needs. Additionally, shotguns in general provide a wide spread of pellets, which can be advantageous in home-defense situations. However, it’s important to receive proper training and understand your local laws regarding firearm ownership and usage.

Does a Mossberg 500 kick?

Yes, the Mossberg 500 does produce recoil, commonly referred to as “kick.” The amount of recoil experienced can vary based on the specific model, the type of ammunition used, and the shooter’s stance and grip. Generally, 12-gauge versions will have more recoil compared to smaller gauges like the 20-gauge. Recoil pads, proper shooting technique, and additional aftermarket accessories can help mitigate the felt recoil.

What ammo is best for Mossberg 500?

The best ammunition for a Mossberg 500 depends on the intended use, such as home defense, hunting, or target shooting. Here are some recommendations for each purpose:

1. **Home Defense**:
– 12-gauge 00 buckshot is often recommended for home defense due to its stopping power.
– 12-gauge birdshot can also be effective at very close range and minimizes penetration through walls.

2. **Hunting**:
– For deer, 12-gauge slugs are commonly used.
– For bird hunting, such as turkey or waterfowl, various shot sizes (like #4 to #6 shot for turkey, and BB or #2 for waterfowl) can be effective, depending on the species and shooting distance.

3. **Target Shooting**:
– Light target loads, such as 12-gauge 7.5 or 8 shot, are ideal for clay shooting or practice.

Always ensure the barrel and choke configuration of your Mossberg 500 is compatible with the ammunition you choose, and follow all safety guidelines for the activity you are participating in.

Can you shoot slugs in a Mossberg 500?

Yes, you can shoot slugs in a Mossberg 500 shotgun. For best results, it’s recommended to use a barrel that is specifically designed for slug shooting, such as a rifled barrel or a smoothbore barrel with a rifled choke. Always ensure that you are using the correct type of slug and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific shotgun model.

Which is better, Remington 870 or Mossberg 500?

Both the Remington 870 and the Mossberg 500 are renowned pump-action shotguns that have been popular among hunters, law enforcement, and shooting enthusiasts for decades. Determining which is better depends on your specific needs and preferences.

**Remington 870:**
– **Durability:** Known for its solid steel receiver and overall rugged construction.
– **Feel:** Often praised for its smooth action and classic design.
– **Customization:** Offers a wide variety of aftermarket parts and accessories.
– **Reputation:** Longstanding reputation for reliability and performance.

**Mossberg 500:**
– **Price:** Generally more affordable than the Remington 870.
– **Design:** Features an aluminum receiver, which makes it lighter in weight.
– **Safety:** The tang safety on the top of the receiver is ambidextrous, making it more suitable for left-handed shooters.
– **Customization:** Also has a wide array of accessories and configurations.

**Conclusion:**
If you prefer a heavier, more traditional shotgun with a steel receiver, the Remington 870 might be the better choice. If you’re looking for a lighter, often more cost-effective option with features like an ambidextrous safety, the Mossberg 500 could be more suited to your needs. Consider handling both models to see which fits you better in terms of ergonomics and comfort.

Are pistol grip shotguns legal?

The legality of pistol grip shotguns varies depending on the jurisdiction. In the United States, federal law does not specifically prohibit pistol grip shotguns, but they may be subject to different rules based on barrel length and overall length, which can classify them differently under the National Firearms Act (NFA). Some states have their specific laws regarding the legality and classification of firearms with pistol grips.

To determine the legality in a specific area, you should consult local state laws and regulations or seek legal advice.

Which shotgun is better, Remington 870 or Mossberg 500?

The choice between the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 largely depends on personal preference and specific needs, as both are popular and highly regarded shotguns. Here are some points to consider:

**Remington 870:**
– Well-known for its durability and reliability.
– Offers a smoother action due to its steel receiver.
– Often preferred by law enforcement and military.
– Wide availability of aftermarket parts and accessories.

**Mossberg 500:**
– Known for its versatility and affordability.
– Features an ambidextrous tang safety, making it user-friendly for both left- and right-handed shooters.
– Lightweight due to its aluminum receiver.
– Has a strong reputation for ruggedness and dependability.

Ultimately, the better choice depends on which features are more important to you, such as weight, safety placement, and price. It’s advisable to handle both models, if possible, to determine which feels more comfortable and suitable for your intended use.

Can you shoot slugs in a Mossberg 500?

Yes, you can shoot slugs in a Mossberg 500 shotgun. For best results and accuracy, it’s recommended to use a rifled barrel designed for slugs if you’re planning on using slug ammunition frequently. However, you can also use a smoothbore barrel, but you might not achieve the same level of accuracy as with a rifled barrel. Always make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and safety instructions when using different types of ammunition.

Do police use Mossberg 500?

Yes, police departments often use the Mossberg 500 shotgun. It is a popular choice for law enforcement due to its reliability, affordability, and versatility. The Mossberg 500 is used in a variety of situations, including riot control and breaching operations.

What is the effective range of the Mossberg 500?

The effective range of a Mossberg 500 shotgun typically falls between 25 to 40 yards (approximately 23 to 37 meters) for shooting with shotgun slugs. When using buckshot, the effective range is generally shorter, around 20 to 30 yards (about 18 to 27 meters). The exact range can vary based on factors like the type of ammunition, choke used, and shooting conditions.