The Mossberg 500 is a legendary shotgun, known for its reliability, versatility, and affordability. But even a classic can benefit from upgrades, and one of the most popular is swapping out the standard stock for a Hogue OverMolded stock. This upgrade significantly enhances the shooting experience, making the Mossberg 500 even more comfortable and controllable. This in-depth review will explore the benefits and drawbacks of the Mossberg 500 Hogue stock, helping you decide if it's the right upgrade for your shotgun.
Why Upgrade Your Mossberg 500 Stock?
The factory stock on a Mossberg 500, while functional, often leaves something to be desired in terms of comfort and ergonomics. Many shooters find the hard plastic uncomfortable during extended shooting sessions. This discomfort can lead to fatigue, flinching, and ultimately, less accurate shots. Upgrading to an aftermarket stock like the Hogue addresses these issues.
The Advantages of a Hogue Stock
The Hogue OverMolded stock offers several key advantages:
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Improved Ergonomics: The Hogue stock features a more contoured design, providing a better grip and reducing fatigue. The pistol grip is particularly well-designed for a secure hold.
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Enhanced Comfort: The overmolded rubber coating provides significant improvements to comfort and reduces recoil felt by the shooter. This is especially beneficial during rapid firing or extended use.
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Increased Control: The improved ergonomics and comfortable grip translate directly into better control of the shotgun, especially important in dynamic shooting situations.
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Weather Resistance: The rubber coating offers better resistance to the elements than the standard plastic stock, making it ideal for hunting or outdoor use in varied conditions.
Hogue Stock Variations for the Mossberg 500
Hogue offers several variations of their overmolded stocks for the Mossberg 500, including:
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Standard pistol grip: This is the most common configuration and a great all-around choice.
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Stocks with a raised comb: Some versions offer a higher comb to improve cheek weld, benefiting shooters who use optics.
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Different colors: Hogue offers various color options to match personal preferences or camouflage needs.
Detailed Comparison: Factory Stock vs. Hogue Stock
| Feature | Factory Stock | Hogue OverMolded Stock |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Hard Plastic | Overmolded Rubber & Polymer |
| Comfort | Low | High |
| Ergonomics | Basic | Superior |
| Recoil Reduction | Minimal | Noticeable |
| Weather Resistance | Low | High |
| Price | Significantly cheaper | More expensive |
Installation of the Hogue Stock
Installing a Hogue stock on a Mossberg 500 is generally straightforward. Most models come with detailed instructions. However, if you are not comfortable with firearm disassembly and assembly, it's best to seek the help of a qualified gunsmith.
User Reviews and Feedback
Online forums and review sites are filled with overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Hogue OverMolded stock for the Mossberg 500. Many users report a significant improvement in shooting comfort, control, and accuracy. The most common criticisms are the higher price compared to the factory stock and the potential for the rubber coating to wear down over time with heavy use.
Conclusion: Is the Hogue Stock Worth It?
For most Mossberg 500 owners, upgrading to a Hogue OverMolded stock is a worthwhile investment. The improvement in comfort, ergonomics, and control justify the added cost. If you regularly shoot your Mossberg 500, especially in various conditions or for extended periods, the enhanced comfort and durability of the Hogue stock will significantly improve your shooting experience. The Mossberg 500 Hogue stock represents a considerable upgrade for both recreational shooters and serious hunters alike. Consider your budget and shooting style to determine if this upgrade is perfect for you.