Finding the right stock for your Mossberg 500 20 gauge can significantly enhance your shooting experience. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or simply enjoy recreational shooting, the stock plays a crucial role in accuracy, comfort, and overall performance. This in-depth guide explores various aspects of Mossberg 500 20 gauge stocks, helping you choose the perfect fit for your needs.
Understanding Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Stocks
The stock is the portion of the shotgun you shoulder and grip, directly impacting your shooting posture and aim. A poorly fitting stock can lead to discomfort, inaccuracy, and even injury. Mossberg 500 20 gauge shotguns come with a variety of stock options, and aftermarket stocks offer even more customization possibilities.
Types of Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Stocks
Mossberg offers several stock types for its 500 20 gauge models. These include:
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Standard Synthetic Stock: This is the most common stock, made from durable and weather-resistant synthetic material. It's typically affordable and easy to maintain.
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Wood Stocks: These offer a classic look and feel, often providing a slightly more traditional shooting experience. However, wood stocks require more care and are susceptible to damage from moisture.
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Pistol Grip Stocks: These provide a more compact and maneuverable feel, especially beneficial for close-quarters shooting or tactical applications.
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Tactical Stocks: Designed for tactical uses, these stocks often feature adjustable components for enhanced customization and a more stable shooting platform. They frequently include features like pistol grips, cheek rests, and Picatinny rails.
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Thumbhole Stocks: These stocks have a cutout for your thumb, offering improved control and reduced recoil.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stock
Selecting the right stock involves careful consideration of several key factors:
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Length of Pull (LOP): This is the distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock. An improper LOP can lead to poor cheek weld and inconsistent aim. Proper LOP is crucial for accuracy and comfort. Measure your current stock's LOP to find a comfortable replacement.
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Drop at Comb and Heel: These measurements relate to the stock's vertical angle. The drop at comb refers to the vertical distance from the receiver to the comb (the highest point of the stock). The drop at heel refers to the vertical distance from the receiver to the buttplate. These affect how the gun mounts to your shoulder and influence your sight picture.
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Cast: This refers to the sideways offset of the stock. Right-handed shooters often benefit from a right-hand cast, while left-handed shooters need a left-hand cast. The correct cast ensures proper alignment with your eye and the barrel.
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Material: Consider the durability, weather resistance, and feel of different materials (synthetic, wood, polymer).
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Weight: A heavier stock can reduce felt recoil, but might be more tiring for extended shooting sessions. A lighter stock is more maneuverable but may lead to increased recoil.
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Ergonomics: Consider features like pistol grips, cheek rests, and textured surfaces to improve control and comfort.
Aftermarket Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Stocks
Numerous aftermarket manufacturers offer a wide variety of stocks for the Mossberg 500 20 gauge. These options provide even greater customization and allow you to tailor your shotgun to your exact specifications. Popular brands include:
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ATI: Known for durable and affordable synthetic stocks.
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Hogue: Offers high-quality stocks with comfortable grips.
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Magpul: Produces tactical stocks with various features and customization options.
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Choate: Specializes in providing unique and highly customizable stocks, including pistol grip stocks.
Case Study: Upgrading to a Tactical Stock
A competitive shooter using a standard synthetic stock found that felt recoil was causing fatigue and impacting accuracy. After switching to a Magpul MOE stock with an adjustable cheek rest and a recoil pad, they experienced a noticeable improvement in comfort and accuracy, leading to better scores in competitions.
Installation and Considerations
Installing a new stock typically involves removing the existing stock and attaching the new one. While generally straightforward, it's crucial to consult the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damage to your firearm. Incorrect installation can affect the gun's functionality and safety.
Safety First: Always ensure your firearm is unloaded and the action is open before working on it.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Stock
Selecting the right Mossberg 500 20 gauge stock is crucial for optimizing performance and comfort. By carefully considering the factors outlined above and exploring both factory and aftermarket options, you can find a stock that perfectly suits your shooting style and needs. Remember to prioritize safety during installation, and don't hesitate to consult with experienced gunsmiths if needed. Proper stock selection can transform your shooting experience, leading to improved accuracy and enjoyment.