The Mossberg 500 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, appreciated for its reliability and versatility. Turning it into a tactical shotgun enhances its capabilities for home defense, sporting clays, or even competition. This guide will walk you through the process of building a truly customized Mossberg 500 tactical shotgun, covering everything from choosing the right base gun to adding advanced accessories. Remember, always follow all applicable local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm ownership and modification.
Choosing Your Mossberg 500 Base Gun
The first step in creating your tactical Mossberg 500 is selecting the right foundation. Mossberg 500s come in various configurations, and choosing wisely will save you time and money down the line.
Key Considerations:
- Barrel Length: Consider your intended use. A shorter barrel (18.5 inches or less) is ideal for home defense, offering maneuverability in tight spaces. Longer barrels (20-28 inches) provide greater accuracy and less recoil for longer-range shooting or sporting clays.
- Stock Type: Tactical shotguns often feature pistol grips, adjustable stocks, or collapsible stocks for better ergonomics and control. Consider your shooting style and comfort preferences.
- Finish: Many Mossberg 500s are available in matte black, but other finishes like camo or Cerakote are available for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
- Capacity: Internal tube capacity varies. Consider your local regulations and intended use when choosing your capacity.
Example: For a home defense build, an 18.5-inch barrel with a pistol grip and a matte black finish might be the perfect starting point. For competition shooting, a longer barrel and an adjustable stock would be preferable.
Essential Tactical Upgrades for Your Mossberg 500
Once you have your base gun, it's time to add the tactical upgrades that will transform it into a highly effective tool.
1. Sights:
- Ghost Ring Sights: These offer fast target acquisition, crucial in close-quarters situations. They're a popular choice for tactical shotguns due to their simplicity and effectiveness.
- Red Dot Sights: Red dot sights provide a clear, illuminated aiming point, ideal for low-light conditions and rapid target engagement. Mounting a red dot on a shotgun requires a rail system (see below).
- Laser Sights: Laser sights can assist with aiming, especially in close-quarters combat scenarios. However, remember that laser's visibility can be reduced by dust, rain, etc.
2. Rail Systems:
A Picatinny rail system is essential for mounting accessories like red dot sights, lasers, and lights. These are commonly added to the receiver or forend.
3. Forend and Grip:
- Tactical Forends: These often feature Picatinny rails for accessories and a more ergonomic grip. They can improve handling and control, especially during rapid firing.
- Pistol Grips: Replacing the standard stock with a pistol grip improves maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Adjustable Stocks: Adjustable stocks allow you to customize the length of pull to fit your body size and shooting style. This improves comfort and accuracy.
4. Lighting:
A weapon light is vital for low-light operations. Choose a durable, high-lumen light that can withstand recoil. Consider features like strobe modes for disorienting threats.
5. Sling:
A good sling allows for hands-free carrying and quick transitions to a firing position. Choose a durable, adjustable sling that fits your needs. A two-point sling is generally recommended for tactical use.
Advanced Tactical Upgrades (Optional)
Once you've built your core tactical configuration, you can add these upgrades to further refine your Mossberg 500.
- Extended Magazine Tubes: These increase your ammunition capacity. Be mindful of your local laws regarding magazine capacity.
- Shell Carriers: These help you quickly reload your shotgun.
- Side Saddles: These attach to the receiver and allow you to carry extra shells.
- Different Chokes: Chokes can change your shotgun's shot pattern, affecting range and accuracy. Experiment to find what best suits your needs.
Safety First: A Critical Note
Modifying your firearm requires caution and proper tools. Improper modifications can render your firearm unsafe or even cause it to malfunction. If you're unsure about any step, seek professional help from a qualified gunsmith. Always practice safe gun handling procedures.
Conclusion: Your Custom Tactical Mossberg 500
Building your custom Mossberg 500 tactical shotgun is a rewarding experience. By carefully selecting your base gun and thoughtfully adding upgrades, you can create a highly effective and personalized tool tailored to your specific needs. Remember to prioritize safety throughout the entire process and always comply with all applicable laws and regulations.