[gglass]

I just finished my latest project... This is my completed Mossberg 500A Tactical 12 gauge. I even did the smithing to add the Mossberg Ghost Ring sights... Yea me! :)

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/7097/mytac500a.jpg

Here are the specs:

Base Mossberg 500A Cruiser Persuader 12 Gauge
20 Inch Barrel Blue Finish
8-Shot Capacity 12 Gauge (7+1) Up to 3” Magnum
Mossberg Ghost Ring Sights
ATI Shotforce Tactical 6-Position Pistol Grip Buttstock
ATI Adjustable Cheek Rest
TacStar Side Saddle 6-Shot Carrier
Of course 12 Gauge Winchester Military Issue 2 ¾” Shells

[gglass]

This is how Mossberg Ghost Sights look from POV. I shot it yesterday and was quite happy that POA and POI were one and the same. :D

http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/1081/500tacpov1.jpg
http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/479/500tacpov2.jpg

[1KPerDay]

cool!

[litework]

Nice! But you forgot to mention the heat shield. I don't think that was part of the base Mossberg 500A.

[fattboyzz]

hello little friend ;] ...lookin good mossy.!

nice job on the tacticool 500 !

[gearchecker]

:banghead::banghead::banghead:

G...

A couple of questions from an old man that can't figure it out.

Why would anybody want to possess a "Tactical Shotgun" - it's still just a shotgun!

(Serious questions now) If you aren't a LEO what's the purpose of having such a ridiculous weapon?
A short barreled 18.5" Mossberg that only costs $250 will kill an intruder just as easily.
That is if you really have the nerve to shoot it at another human being.
Why waste the money on making a "cool" weapon when you could be buying and shooting a .40 cal pistol or something similar... or even buy and shoot off one hell of a lot of ammo thru the shotgun you started with and wasted all the money modifying.

You can only hit a target once at 25 yards consistantly. You can only get 1, maybe 2 shots off with any level of accuracy to begin with, even at 10 yards. You only have 5 rounds max if you are legal.
What ammo do you intend to shoot-- 00 Buck/Slug/00 Buck/Slug?
Good luck explaining that to the LEO's.

(Smart A$$ question now) Where are you ever going to use it?
When you are stalking around the garage late at night, looking to shoot the neighbors cat that won't stop Yowling and driving you crazy?

You probably could have bought an old AK and really had some fun restoring it for the money you put into this one.

(Really serious statement/question here) I can't figure it out. Please explain? Just because you can is a lousy excuse. That's what everybody else does.

Signed,
The old man with lots and lots of factory stock handguns that have awesome POA/POI at 50 yards with 6-14 rounds in rapid fire succession (depending on the weapons capacity) and won't hesitate a moment to use them, if necessary.

[bigalexe]

In response to the OP and GearChecker.

This is probably one of the best tactical shotguns ive seen posted. I dont see anything on the gun that doesnt have an obvious purpose (aside from the heat shield). Also it doesnt have any accessory that looks like its ready to fail at the most inconvenient of times in a manner that would render the weapon inoperable. Your minimalistic approach also keeps the weight down I'm assuming. Awesome gun.

[Schofield3]

I disagree with you gearchecker; The OP's done just fine by this mossy. The upgrades do have a purpose and you don't have to be a LEO to enjoy/appreciate them.

[PT1911]

the only "upgrade" I dont see the point in is the adjustable stock.. that said, that is a nice one. I like everything else that has been done. The sights are pretty awesome.. seem like they would be very fast. I like the shell saddle and hell, I even like the heat shield. The pistol grip should make the gun faster to point and more controlled (theoretically.)

as to Gearchecker.... what are you talking about? if you had to use a shotgun to defend yourself are you going to use birdshot? what is wrong with buck, 00buck, 000buck, or a slug.... or a combination of all for that matter?

I guess we should use rock salt and flower petals instead.

[Warhawk83]

I like the ghost sights,how hard were they to put on?
I have the cheapo version of a 500, the Mossberg Maverick 88 18.5'' 12 gauge
Loaded with 00buck.....gearchecker :P

[gglass]

gearchecker,

You may want to have your med interactions checked.

To your questions...

Why build a tactical shotgun? - I'll use the proper college answer. Why not?

Why spend the money? - Who the hell are you to tell me how to spend my money? I would never presume to tell you how to spend yours. This is one of the cornerstones of American liberty. Would you also tell me that I should not spend the extra money on one of my $2000 1911's?

Could I draw down and even use deadly force on another human being? - Hell yes! If my wife or kids are threatened, I would have no hesitation to use deadly force. I don't know the laws in North Idaho, but my state recognizes Castle Doctrine laws, which completely protect a homeowner from prosecution in home invasion cases. A homeowner does not even have a duty to attempt retreat.

Where will I use it? - At home for a primary defense weapon and the range for target practice with slugs. I waste a lot of money at the range. Just ask my wife. I don't suppose that I would use it behind the garage for yowling cats... I like cats.

Why not spend the money on ammo or refurbishing firearms? - I have plenty of ammo and replenish more often than I really need. Just ask my wife. I also work on my AK's, AR's, Mosin's, Remington's, Springfield's, S&W's, Ruger's and so on, and so on.

Serious statement - With four kids and two grandkids, I am old enough and experienced enough to be able to say that I have done this project, "Just because".

Signed,
Middle-aged dude who knows the meaning of freedom and liberty.

[Nematocyst]

I haven't spent much time in Shotguns since I sold my 870P.

But I'm signing up for this thread because it could get interesting.

Wonder what Dave McC will say other than BA/UU/R.

[kkairplane]

Why would anybody want to possess a "Tactical Shotgun" - it's still just a shotgun!

Zombies of course!

I like it. Nice build.

[Lee Lapin]

Have you shot it yet?

lpl

[PandaBearBG]

I really like it, nice job!

[jn1965]

It just looks so cool!
You are making me want another shotty!

I also want to know how hard it was to put the ghost ring sights on the gun.


Let's see, if I dedicate the ones I have now to skeet and pick up another m500...

[Sam1911]

You can only hit a target once at 25 yards consistantly.

What? Who? Wha...?

You can only get 1, maybe 2 shots off with any level of accuracy to begin with, even at 10 yards.

What? Say again? Does not compute...

You only have 5 rounds max if you are legal.

If he's waterfowling with it...he's still 2 over! :rolleyes: Otherwise...what? Huh? Where?

What ammo do you intend to shoot-- 00 Buck/Slug/00 Buck/Slug?
Good luck explaining that to the LEO's.

What planet are you from?

...


More seriously, I do like those sights! Please post where you got them and what it took to install them!

-Sam

[RSVP2RIP]

How does on maintain a firing grip and take the saftey off? Seems like the pistol grip leaves something to be desired.

[natman]

More seriously, I do like those sights! Please post where you got them and what it took to install them!


Mossberg sells them as an accessory (http://www.mossberg.com/cgi-bin/commerce.exe?preadd=action&key=95300&reference=/cgi-bin/commerce.exe%3Fsearch%3Daction%26keywords%3D%26searchstart%3D0%26template%3DPDGCommTemplates\MossPdgNav\SearchResult.html%26category%3DSIGH). The rear bolts right on to current Mossbergs that are D&Ted from the factory. The front has to be soldered on, which involves refinishing the barrel. :(

I have the same gun but with the standard stock, which I find points better and allows easy access to the safety. I also skipped the heat shield.

The only thing I plan to add is some sort of light.

[natman]

A couple of questions from an old man that can't figure it out.

Why would anybody want to possess a "Tactical Shotgun" - it's still just a shotgun!

(Serious questions now) If you aren't a LEO what's the purpose of having such a ridiculous weapon?
A short barreled 18.5" Mossberg that only costs $250 will kill an intruder just as easily.

That is if you really have the nerve to shoot it at another human being.
Why waste the money on making a "cool" weapon when you could be buying and shooting a .40 cal pistol or something similar... or even buy and shoot off one hell of a lot of ammo thru the shotgun you started with and wasted all the money modifying.


I have the same basic gun. I bought it new at Big 5 for $259. The sights added $50 on sale. I have a total of less than $350 in it. Given the increased accuracy and shot capacity I consider it money very well spent.


You can only hit a target once at 25 yards consistantly. You can only get 1, maybe 2 shots off with any level of accuracy to begin with, even at 10 yards. You only have 5 rounds max if you are legal.
What ammo do you intend to shoot-- 00 Buck/Slug/00 Buck/Slug?
Good luck explaining that to the LEO's.

Wow, what a lot of nonsense in one small paragraph. Maybe YOU can only hit a target once at 25 yards (which is about 3 times farther than any reasonable HD scenario), but I have no problem. Nor do shotguns lose accuracy after the first shot.

There is no legal max capacity for pump shotguns. Nor is 00 Buck illegal.

There's nothing wrong asking questions, but you might want to soft pedal your tone when addressing a subject you know nothing about.

[lads.308]

I have a 500 persuader with the same stock pictured and have no trouble reaching the safety. All it is, is a thumb move away unless you have extremely short thumbs I guess. With the pistol grip it offers much more ease of secure tight shouldering, and wielding the weapon in any way or situation regardless. Not saying a conventional stock wouldn't do the trick just fine, but if I can make things easier, more comfortable or tactically applicable for myself even in just the smallest amount. I feel I've just put myself that much closer to being prepared for any situation necessary for the use of that scatter gun.

[RSVP2RIP]

It seems that you still must let got of the pistol grip and place you hand in an unnatural position, one you couldn't shoot from. Can you take the saftey off with just using you right hand to hold the gun and still hold onto the gun? It seems that it would not be the ideal answer, for me at least. If the saftey was on the left side of the gun like the AR rifle, then the AR rifle grip might make sense. But if it is a comfortable setup for you then go right ahead and I'll shut up.

[Yo Mama]

You can only hit a target once at 25 yards consistantly. You can only get 1, maybe 2 shots off with any level of accuracy to begin with, even at 10 yards. You only have 5 rounds max if you are legal.
What ammo do you intend to shoot-- 00 Buck/Slug/00 Buck/Slug?
Good luck explaining that to the LEO's.


Actually Sam1911 gave the answer I would have given you gear.

[lads.308]

I would agree the AR safety placement is probably the most ideal and easily accessible. But unfortunately we don't live in an ideal world. Even the safety set up on say the 1300 would be closer with the pistol grip, but then again you would have to remove your finger from the trigger well to engage and disengage it. We're talking only fractions of a second of thumb release and movement here on the 500 grip while still maintaining your grip and trigger cover not forfeiting any target aquisition or firing capability in the meantime.

[Yo Mama]

The only thing I plan to add is some sort of light.

Surefire G2 with mounts and pressure pad=100$, and I love mine!

[proud2deviate]

From a fan of minimalist walnut-stocked shotguns, that actually looks pretty good. Not too much "tactical".

I must say that I disagree whole-heartedly with gearchecker. There's way too much mis-information and grump in that post for this early in the morning. . .

[Kindrox]

I like the shotgun but I don't get what makes it "tactical"? Also for how you are using it, is the sling useful to you?

[gearchecker]

2nd response to GGLASS
I apologize if I lit your fuse.

You have given sound reasons to all of my questions and answered them kindly.
You didn't need to respond but you did so and I do appreciate that.

It is one hell of a nice looking shotgun. I meant no disrespect to you and I hope you will at least consider my questions as just that - questions that I don't have answers to.

I still don't understand "Tactical" or it's purpose, and that's what I'm really looking for an answer to.
Idaho accepts the Castle doctrine and I do too.
Forums are for dialog and opinions. I was just giving mine and obviously you all don't like differing opinions much. Just my 2 cents worth, no problems.

[1KPerDay]

You must be new to the intarweb. :)

[gglass]

gearchecker,

Thanks for the apology, but it is not really necessary, as my feelings were never really hurt. I hope that I did not come across as too heavy handed in my response. I am always up for a good debate.

The meaning of a tactical shotgun to my understanding is as follows:

Any upgrades to a weapon system that can offer its user a tactical advantage. Such as:


Forward or rear pistol grips for better control and maneuverability
Improved sight systems like ghost rings, red dots or scopes for better target acquisition. (Ghost rings allow long range target capability and still allows for point and shoot firing)
Ammunition carriers for easier access to additional ammunition for the unlikely but possible extended firefight
Laser sights for faster and more accurate target acquisition.
Gun mounted light systems for target illumination and potential blinding of a foe.


Any of these upgrades to an otherwise stock weapon can be a tactical advantage and thus generally given the name "tactical', or sometimes the Gen "Y" vernacular term of "tacticool".

_____________________________

Kindrox,

The uses for my tactical 500 would be range shooting with slugs and home defense with 00 buck.

The sling is only useful to me for carry purposes. This Mossy is pretty heavy when fully loaded. If I were to go to the next tactical step, I could install a single point sling, but I don't plan on dual wielding the Mossy and a sidearm simultaneously.

[RSVP2RIP]

The meaning of a tactical shotgun to my understanding is as follows:

Any upgrades to a weapon system that can offer its user a tactical advantage. Such as:


You cannot define a word with itself. Tactical is "a use of" not a "thing". A tactical use of a shot gun would be, but not limited to, breaching, room clearing, supressing fire...etc. A tactical shotgun is any shotgun used in those circumstances. A fighting shotgun may have certain addons that enhance its ability to preform a given role. I think that less is more though, and about the only thing you need to put on a social shotgun is a light. Or maybe replacing the lockout saftey on a Remington, so that it never gets locked...see Murphy. P.S. The only reason that Military shotguns have a heat sheild is so that when using a bayonet, and the barrel is grasped for its use, the hand is not burned. There is no reason to grasp the barrel when using a shot gun without a bayonet lug. Look at the current military shotguns and you will find that the ones without bayonet lugs have no heatshields.

[gglass]

I suppose that I could just stop using the word tactical to better conform to the acceptable nomenclature of this forum.

Maybe I should spread the word to others that we should all stop using tactical to describe a thing like a shotgun. Like all these guys:

http://www.tacticalshotgunaccessories.com/
http://www.tacticalshotguns.com/
http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&source=hp&q=tactical+shotgun&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=ALG7Spr2K86BtgfeqoGrDQ&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ct=title&resnum=4
http://www.shotgunworld.com/bbs/viewforum.php?f=7
http://www.frontsight.com/courses/tactical-shotgun-training.asp

Spread the word.
____________________
RSVP2RIP

FYI - I did not add the heat shield. This just happens to be the way Mossberg ships some of the Cruiser Persuader guns. I did not find it offensive enough to remove, so I suppose that I will keep it in place until enough people ridicule me for my social shotgun faux paux.

[snooperman]

I do not have one but I can see why someone would want it . There are some advantages with the ghost ring sights etc. Most law enforcement and paramilitary officers use them quite effectively. Also our Navy , Coast guard, Army and Marines have them; Hence , there is a need for these type of shotguns.

[TheBill]

That turned out great.

I made some changes to my Big 5 500A also

Since it was the Big 5 model, I had to order a new slide action tube, so I could put a Hogue forend on it (Big 5 models come with a Maverick forend where the forend IS the slide action tube)

I got the Butler Creek folding stock. Works well when extended surprisingly, I leave it folded most of the time since I did this for my HD weapon. I like it because the stock can be pulled off and capped, so it can be a pistol grip (1), pistol grip while stock is folded (2), or extended stock w/ pistol grip in one.

I put the heat shield on it (just to add to the looks)

Like i had mentioned, I got the Hogue forend, which feels much nicer than the plastic Maverick.

I'd like to get it parkerized, and maybe put some of those sites or a muzzle break or breach on it eventually. I know this is primarily for looks, but that's what I like...and these additions are fun and relatively inexpensive

[PA4476]

I know this is primarily for looks, but that's what I like...and these additions are fun and relatively inexpensive

And thats the number 1 reason all these folks are putting all that tacti-cool stuff on. For the looks. I have built a couple of those tactiCOOL jobs just for a $$$ money sake. Turns out there are a lot of mall ninjas out there who have to have a full blown "tactical" shotgun to protect themselfs from zombies. And I'm cool with that, afterall they don't mind giving way more than the thing is worth. And thats money in my pocket.

What scares me is they are using slugs and 00 or 000 buckshot inside their apartments. And if and when a zombie does come it to get them, they may kill 2 or 3 kids 2 doors down by blowing holes through the walls.

And gglass, you do have a "cool" looking gun there.

[tribbles]

If it's part of your home defense strategy, then you should call it a 'strategic' shotgun. :neener:

Nice gun, btw - like Goldilocks, not too little, not too much, just right.

[1KPerDay]

What scares me is they are using slugs and 00 or 000 buckshot inside their apartments.
Yeah, they should be restricted to rubber bullets or bean bags. Gol-dang apartment dwellers.

[Justin]

Personally, I don't see a need to for the sling, stock, or heat shield on a home defense shotgun.

That said, assuming you put the trigger time in to learn how to use it, that shotgun is perfectly capable in a defensive role.

[chas08]

I've personally never cared for side saddles. Too much mass in view for me. But it looks good if your into the Tacticool look. If it pleases you then that is all that matters.

[PJR]

An 18.5" plain-stock, bead sighted, pump shotgun will get the job done. It's what I started with. I have modified the gun so-called "tactical" accessories but each addition to my 870P addresses a specific shortcoming in the factory gun.

Bead sights were replaced with rifle sights. Cylinder choke replaced with modified. The small factory safety was replaced by a larger Vang safety. Also added were a side saddle, an easily removable light mount and a sling.

Things that were tried and rejected were magazine extensions, pistol grip stock, pistol grip only and a laser. Items never considered were bayonet lugs, heat shields, large accessory rails and collapsing stocks.

My 870 isn't a gun for show although it looks pretty good to me. It has accounted for many four-legged nuisances on the farm and deployed twice in response to two-legged threats but not fired.

Would I be just as well off with the original factory gun? Perhaps. But it is a significantly more effective gun with the improvements.

[cleardiddion]

I have to admit, that's a pretty good looking 500 you got there!
I'd probably would have put on a fixed stock, but that's a matter of personal taste

[Bob2222]

I have a 590A1 that has the heavier barrel, with GRS and a Speedfeed stock (which I didn't order).

I was thinking of building something like the 590A for my wife because of the lighter barrel and heat shield. To the OP -- I like it! And it doesn't look particularly ninjified to me.

As much as I might like to buy an AK and restore it, in my state we can't buy AKs but can do pretty much anything we want with a pump shotgun just so long as it has an 18" barrel.

[gearchecker]

GGlass,
Thanks for the explainations, I got it now - that is the tactical definition. I have a Mooberg 500 myself and it's a bear of a gun and weighs a ton. I guess here is the last question from me on this. How much weight did you take off of it. I really like the sight ring you put on it too.

TheBill - The company I work for molds the shell holder stock on your shotgun.
We make all of the steel folding stocks and Ruger 10-22 10 & 25 shot magazines for Uncle Mike's too.
I almost got one of the "rejects" a couple of weeks ago, but it ended up in the material regrinder before I could get my hands on it. I was going to try it on my Mossy and see if I wanted to buy one for myself. I'm ready to try just about anything to take some of the weight off my shotgun and the shell holder is a great idea

[litework]

I personally believe the OP's gun is practical. The changes made appear to me to be more than cosmetic and may add value to the user. An adjustable stock isn't something I use on my shotguns, but I don't have a problem reaching the controls or topping off the tube. If I did or had to share the gun with someone who did, I'd have an adjustable stock. The side saddle is a fairly common addition and it is useful. It not only gives you more ammunition, it gives you more ammunition choices. I think having different ammo types readily available is a much better option than the alternating of OO buck and slugs in the tube that seems to be common practice among shotgun users. I understand why many don't like having ammo strapped to the side of the receiver, but I think there are some benefits. I think the ghost ring sight is an improvement over the standard bead sight and the addition of a sling is useful too. I like it.

[Dave McCracken]

My $0.02....

A shotgun is simply a device that directs pellets to targets, effectively and in comfort to the shooter.

Any hardware change that causes an improvement in accuracy, effect and/or comfort can be considered a good thing.

However, quite often folks think that sticking things on a shotgun can make up for lack of practice,

Nope.

A box stock shotgun that you've put a few thousand rounds through, some recently, will do a better job in trained hands than the best custom gun in the hands of a novice can when if really does come down to life and death..

The artist is more crucial than the brush.

Go shoot your shotgun until the empty hulls rise around your shins. At that point you have a "Tactical" shotgun.

And you're a tactical shotgunner.

See how easy this is.....

[Isher]

Gearchecker -

Right on!

I have no dog in the gun bling fight,

Because I don't bling my guns.

Got an old Winnie 1200 12 ga.;

Has worked fine for me since 1982.

Those who want to bling their guns, fine.

I use my money for other stuff.


isher

[THE DARK KNIGHT]

You need a pair of special forces tactical gloves, a must for any home defense extended firefight IMO.

http://www.specopstactical.com

[bigalexe]

2 things

-Someone mentioned earlier about the safety. This has come up various places and honestly in my opinion I like it better than any crossbolt I have ever used. If you slip your thumb up over to it while maintaining a grip on the pistol handle it feels very natural, moreso than it looks like.

-Secondly if you are bored visit that tacticalshotgunaccessories site, I was hopeful of finding useful stuff but died laughing at the level of terrible on some of their setups.

[Lee Lapin]

jmho-

Any shotgun in the hands of a shooter who knows how to handle it properly in a gunfight is a tactical shotgun. But the 'tactical' is in the mind and the muscles of the SHOOTER- not in the gun. The gun is only hardware.

Louis Awerbuck carries a cut-down double barrel as a defensive shotgun while travelling the USA on his instructional circuit. Anyone who would define ANY shotgun in the hands of a Louis Awerbuck, or a Clint Smith, or a Randy Cain as anything other than 'tactical' knows not whereof they speak.

So, gglass- once again, have you shot it yet? How many rounds so far? Had any formal training with a fighting shotgun yet? Planning on getting any?

lpl

[SgtGunner]

That is a hella nice build. Also have a question, I bought an off the shelf Mossberg 500 SPX or STX or some such, can't remember right now, that has virtually all your mods, less the heat shield and cheek piece, and it has a factory ported barrel. What was the advantage of rollin your own (other than the fun aspect) rather than just buying it already built?

[Spirit 1]

Sad & pathetic if ya ask me, and even if you didn't! What is the personal problem?

A fella posts pics of a great looking gun, fully effective for it's intended purpose, very well executed, with a lot of time and some considerable amount of cold hard cash invested. It is a PERSONAL weapon, built for a particular purpose.

Next thing folks roll out from under the woodwork to not just state an opinion of a differing overall view of functionality of certain iterations of shotguns, no, but in your face scathing insults to a man's intelligence! To me that's unacceptable and entirely uncalled for!

I was attacked elsewhere for simply inquiring about an extended magazine for a shotgun, with much the same level of direct insult. The whole point of the dissenter's views focused around how lame brained it is to think somebody needs more than 3-4 rounds of shot to take out any bad guy.

Well, a 4-shot gun is going to feel pretty puny when faced with a 400 lbs sow blackbear and 2 nearly full grown cubs who all want to have an evening snack at your expense. No matter which one you take down in an ultra-high stress extremely fast action low-light event you still may need quite a few more rounds for the other two! "Hold on, boys, let me open this spare box of shells and reload, just take a minute here, thanks..."

And where is there a Geneva Convention covering rules of engagement for home invasions, that states that only 1 perpetrator is allowed per event and must first knock on the door during regular daylight hours? How about 3 speed freaks spun out to crazed maniac on crank and God knows what else, desperate to do anything necessary to steal what they want, how they want, and kill in the process, with maybe just a little rape & torture for the 'fun' of it? Oh, and they're well armed, and may be wearing tactical armor.

To assume that everyone that builds a special purpose shotgun, for special purposes, is a 'mall ninja' or other insulting derogatory name reveals a very narrow mind, far too little imagination and a distinct possibility of getting your butt shot off or being a Happy Meal for bears in the middle of the night.

That's my 2....

[RSVP2RIP]

Bears arent' a real concean where I live :)

Seriously though, it was not attacks personally it just that some here may feel the the add-ons may have been a misguided solution to a problem that never existed. The OP seemed that they would be a genuine improvement to the overall practicality of the firearm. To at least me, they are not, but I don't have years of experience one way or the other on a profesional level with a firearm, just about 25 years spent dove hunting, deer huntting and other outdoor activities. I can only go off the experiences of other professionals and their publications and tutorials. I think that anyone who wants to keep a firearm for self defence needs to seek the advice of someone who makes a living with a gun, not making parts for guns.

[RandKL]

Nice gun, Glass!

r

[sanerkeki]

That looks really nice, now I want one too.

[Spirit 1]

"Bears arent' a real concean where I live

Seriously though, it was not attacks personally it just that some here may feel the the add-ons may have been a misguided solution to a problem that never existed. The OP seemed that they would be a genuine improvement to the overall practicality of the firearm. To at least me, they are not, but I don't have years of experience one way or the other on a profesional level with a firearm, just about 25 years spent dove hunting, deer huntting and other outdoor activities. I can only go off the experiences of other professionals and their publications and tutorials. I think that anyone who wants to keep a firearm for self defence needs to seek the advice of someone who makes a living with a gun, not making parts for guns."

As you say, none of the activities you engage in would call for a gun like this, and that would be a good answer, without sarcasm or insult.

As for the need of advice from a professional hunter or armorer I can't see that. Some math that can be done on the fingers of the hand will quickly indicate a shortage of firepower in 2 very realistic and possible scenarios I described. That rates right up there with 2 broken hands in a fist fight: little chance of success.

I know my own needs for a high capacity shotgun are valid so it's not a stretch to think that they might apply to someone else. Then too, we don't see too many 4 shot pistols or revolvers enjoying an avalanche of popularity, never have. The reasons are simple and obvious and may apply directly to other firearm platforms.

We all know that about the worst thing you can do in a gun fight is not bring enough gun, one way or another.

My Ithaca 37 as a trench gun [similar to the above Mossy] is adequate to the situation up to at least 100 yds in a variety of events, including hunting, sometimes much more so than many other shotguns, rifles or handguns. To each his own, and his own perceived needs.

[Rshooter]

Nice gun. Really like your tag line.

[seanie!]

That looks awesome! Out of curiosity, is it a stretch to reach the safety on top of the receiver when you're holding the pistol grip?

[FFMedic]

Nice looking Mossberg. I have 7 Mossberg shotguns, including one of those unwieldly Knoxx Sidewinder versions, can't wait to get yelled at for wasting my money. I will say that I had a 500 with that ATI stock like yours and I was happy to replace it, a little too flimsy feeling for as tough a weapon as a Mossberg 500. I replaced it with a Knoxx NRS stock but a factory, SpeedFeed or Hogue would do well too.

Just be sure your side saddle screws stay tight but no so tight they bind the action.

Also, I hear the Mossberg safety/pistol grip thing again and again and again. Does not seem like an issue to me. If I pick up my shotgun to use in a defense situation the safety is off and staying that way till it's "all clear". I'm guessig you will not be hunting with this gun so I see no reason why having to take the safety off before you assume a firing grip is an issue.

Again, good looking scattergun.

FFMedic

[JShirley]

I have a 500 that came with the Mossberg GR sights, too.

Love 'em. :D

The only change I've made is substituting a shorter stock for the over-long factory, and adding a sling.

And, yes, Justin, I hunt with it, too. :neener: Since I'm a slug guy, cylinder bore works just fine.

The old man with lots and lots of factory stock handguns that have awesome POA/POI

That's great, but if you have lots and lots of handguns, and no appropriate longarms for home defense- barring physical limitation- you are wrong. Longarms are quicker for repeat shots, are more accurate (even unsighted) due to the stock, and usually considerably more powerful but less likely to overpenetrate a threat than a handgun (poorly understood by many is that higher velocity and expanding bullets usually equals less penetration, not more). And, as far as being concerned about appearance, which could look worse: a dead home invader that's been shot twice with a shotgun, or 5 or 6 times with a handgun? Personally, I tend to shoot fast and often by habit (and it's good training in general), but with most shoulder arms you really shouldn't have to. With handguns, you almost certainly need that second shot from the controlled pair, and even that may not be enough.

John

[dueyferg]

Nice Gun. I just bought a used 500A. Plan to use the knoxx stock, but I was wondering do these guns usually have play in the barrel? The barrel will move slightly if I try to twist it with my hand. Is this normal? The bolt on the barrel is tight, and the barrel butts up against the receiver all the way. Thanks.

[RevolvingGarbage]

Why do so many people seem to like to dismiss heat shields as novelty or "just for looks" items?

Am I the only one who's ever burned a hand on a hot barrel after cooking through a 100 round walmart value pack?

[Youngster]

Why do so many people seem to like to dismiss heat shields as novelty or "just for looks" items?

Am I the only one who's ever burned a hand on a hot barrel after cooking through a 100 round walmart value pack?

There's no real reason to be grabbing the barrel though unless your're using a bayonette.

[gym]

That came out great, I was looking at some similar models on Buds for a couple of hours last night. Some of us married guys spend Sat night looking at stuff we need or think we need. The guns I looked at were very similar, other than the Stock, which I like a lot. so it helped me decide on what stock I want. Also I use ghost ring sights on my Glock 30, I found a front night sight and a ghost rear works great in most lighting conditions. Had them on that pistol for a decade now, and I need to replace the front one, but it's a great combo.

[RandKL]

There's no real reason to be grabbing the barrel though unless your're using a bayonette.

Funny, I touch the barrel every time I flip it over and reload it....and I like heat shields.

r

[JShirley]

Why would you flip to load? :confused: That's not only not necessary, you're teaching yourself to do the wrong thing in an emergency.

J

[Bad Hammer]

Why do so many people seem to like to dismiss heat shields as novelty or "just for looks" items?
Good question.
I've read numerous threads here and elsewhere where far too many people almost ridicule someone for having a heat shield on a shotgun.
[WARNING--RANT ON]
It seems that every fancy stock, or flashlight, or the various shell holders, or lasers, or red dot sight, or seven-point-sling, or ported barrel, or this, or that, etc. is okey-dokey, but somehow a heat shield just seems "silly".
It would seem that no one needs to justify the side saddle.
Or the $200 light.
Or the $300 fore end to attach the light.
But the heat shield....whoah there cowboy....what the heck were ya thinkin"?
Sorry, but I just don't understand.
I bought a Mossberg 500 in '92 (my first of three) that came with the shield.
I left the dang thing on there.
And it has never been a hindrance. Ever.
All these years later, and many thousands of rounds later and it's still there.
I have trained with that gun several times.
I've had that old barrel hot many times.
Several of those times I was glad to have the shield.
That particular gun is still my go-to defense shotgun.
It has never failed me in any way. Ever.
Other than replacing the original plastic trigger group for an aluminum one recently (for no other reason than the "feel good" factor, and to have a spare group on hand for any of the three 12ga 500's), it sports no other enhancements.
No fancy stocks.
No fancy pistol grips (front or rear.)
No fancy sights, just the brass bead.
No fancy shell holder. (OK, it has a 5 round butt cuff.)
No fancy sling.
No fancy light, laser, or holographic-light-up-the-bad-guy-in-the-dark-around-corners sights.
Just the heat shield. And i really, really think it'll be OK.
Sooooo........if you have a shotgun with a heat shield, don't be ashamed. Say it with me now....it's OK.
[FINALLY-THANKFULLY--RANT OFF]
Thanks for listening, and yes I DO feel better.
And as the flaming begins, I'll be hiding behind the filing cabinet. (With said M500)

[RSVP2RIP]

I don't think that it is nessasary to have one on a gun without a bayonet lug. If you have one on there now, why bother taking it off. If you want the military look, then get it now...thats how capitalism works. If you think it is a mandatory item on a defensive gun, I think you are mistaken. Thats all.

[Bad Hammer]

If you think it is a mandatory item on a defensive gun, I think you are mistaken.
Nope. Not mandatory.
But OK to have.
Side saddle....not mandatory (I have never found them to be necessary). But OK to have.
Tactical light....not mandatory(Again....I've never needed one). But OK to have.
Pistol grip stock....not mandatory(I tried one, still have it on my 870, but as soon as I find a factory stock it's gone!). But OK to have.
Laser, red dot. etc.
You see, whatever floats one's boat should be OK.
But don't hang every imaginable piece of tactical crap on a weapon and then criticize another person's choice of accessory.
Absolutely NONE of the above are MANDATORY, but I'd bet that most people browsing this particular forum have at least one (probably several) of them attached to their weapon as I'm typing this.
But still an accessory that doesn't meet their criteria is "foolish".
Go figure.
It reminds me of all the Mossberg "Road Blocker" and "Rolling Thunder" threads.
Some folks will actually spend several hundred dollars for a plastic fore end to mount a very expensive flashlight on their shotgun, then laugh at another 's choice of weapon.
Again, go figure.
I believe that if you like it and it doesn't hinder your use of the weapon then more power to you.
If you like gadgets then by all means buy gadgets.

[RSVP2RIP]

The only thing on my gun is a sling, otherwise it's stock.

[RevolvingGarbage]

There's no real reason to be grabbing the barrel though unless your're using a bayonette.
Its not so much that I had an issue being burned from grabbing the barrel, its that having a hot barrel in close proximity to your fingers, hands, and arms, there are lots of ways that barrel can brush up against you and give you a nasty burn. $20 and 10 minutes of fitting later, I now have a shotgun I would really have to try to burn myself on, and hey, it looks pretty slick too, don't you think?
http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/1792/1001418r.jpg (http://img33.imageshack.us/i/1001418r.jpg/)

[JShirley]

Does it take 10 extra minutes every time you clean it?

John

[RevolvingGarbage]

Why would it? My specific gun is coated in 500 degree engine enamel to keep rust off permanently, so i have no use for cleaning/applying oil to the outside.It breaks down the same as when new, the heat shield is fixed (not permanently mind you, but solidly) to the barrel. Even if I had to for some reason take the heat shield off to clean it its a simple matter of unscrewing a pair of hex nuts, maybe 2 extra minutes if i took my time?

[Bad Hammer]

Does it take 10 extra minutes every time you clean it?
One of my complaints with the side saddles: replacing the take-down pin with a bolt and nut.
I like easy dis-assembly and reassembly.

[RSVP2RIP]

Really, how many shot does it take to end a home invasion? Someone said they burned them selves on a barrel with a 100 round pack. If you are shooting that much, you don't need a heatshield, you need a fire mission.

[RandKL]

Why would you flip to load? That's not only not necessary, you're teaching yourself to do the wrong thing in an emergency.

I don't have any misguided fantasies about fighting off armed gangs of crack heads, John. Most folks on these forums do....I don't. I don't use "side saddles", or extended magazines, or recoil reducing collapsible super duper stocks, either. I've never had a "shotgun class" training me in something I don't need. I collect single shot break barrels and still suggest them as great home defense weapons. I have no doubt that I'll be just fine in an emergency. ;)

richard

[RandKL]

Really, how many shot does it take to end a home invasion? Someone said they burned them selves on a barrel with a 100 round pack. If you are shooting that much, you don't need a heatshield, you need a fire mission.

You see no other uses for a shotgun besides home invasions? Think that one through a bit lol

rich

[JShirley]

Well, Richard, if you were shooting enough rounds to burn yourself if you hadn't been using a heat shield, I thought you must be preparing for some high-round scenario...in which case, keeping your weapon ready must surely be important, too.

I reckon knowing how to "run what you brung" is important. Hell, my father took multiple running shots on small game with a single-barrel, in front of witnesses. But I reckon he was efficient when he did it.

Carry on. :D

J

[Youngster]

Funny, I touch the barrel every time I flip it over and reload it....and I like heat shields.

You should be able to load it while its still mounted, while at least keeping your target area in your field of view. I've fire hundreds of rounds in a single afternoon and never managed to burn myself.

[Bad Hammer]

Guys, PLEASE...........it's not about the NEED for the shield.
No more than it's the need for the side saddle.
Or the pistol grip recoil-reducing stock with the cup holder and cigarette lighter/collapsing ash tray.
Or the Aimpoint.
Or the flashlight.
Or the multi-point sling.
If everyone would just agree to strip their freakin' shotgun of all the other gee-gaws they have drippin' off them, then the totally silly un-necessary heat shields will go into the dumpster. OK?
Then the shotgun world will regain balance and the mojo will once again be in harmony.
Geez. This "I will attach everything under the sun I wish to my do-all be-all uber-tactical zombie killing machine but if you put one item I don't approve of on your gun then you must lack something major in the masculinity or mentality department" is gettin' to be just a bit much, dont'cha think?:banghead:
Ok, I just caught my breath.
-Now, back behind the filing cabinet for me -:evil:

[RandKL]

I thought you must be preparing for some high-round scenario

Nope. Just shooting pumpkins, over-ripe watermelons, hand-thrown fruits and veggies, the assorted million or so clay pigeons etc. Never had to fire one at a person and I don't train for it.

richard

[RandKL]

You should be able to load it while its still mounted, while at least keeping your target area in your field of view

I can load mine telepathically while it's still in the truck and snap shoot any pumpkin as it charges me. I don't wet my underoos when them vicious bastages show their fangs and growl.

Seriously? A few of you folks need to lay off the video games and the zombie movies.

rich

[stevereno1]

why make fun of someone working on a shotgun? I like the riot shotguns, and i like a pain jane version. heat sheilds look cool and they keep from burning your skin if the barrel gets really hot. Personally, I don't like collapsable stocks on a shotgun, but Im glad that you custom built a shotgun to your personal preference. Good Shooting!

[Big Bill]

Spirit 1 - thanks for the great posts. I agree with you 100%. I don't have any misguided fantasies about fighting off armed gangs of crack heads, John. Most folks on these forums do....I don't. I don't use "side saddles", or extended magazines, or recoil reducing collapsible super duper stocks, either. I've never had a "shotgun class" training me in something I don't need. I collect single shot break barrels and still suggest them as great home defense weapons. I have no doubt that I'll be just fine in an emergency.

richard And, you probably don't live in a dense population center, where things could get totally out of hand - just like they did in NO. I hope, for your sake my misguided friend, that you never have to put your silly opinion to a real test.

[rallyhound]

I like adjustable pistol grip stocks. They work well when wearing 4 inch think clothes in the winter.


Heat shields are great too.. May have saved the plastic bumper on my truck on several occasions when I leaned the hot gun on it.


Extended mags work great also.. I can go for a woods hike without extra shells in my pocket.
Also had a pack of 4 stray dogs in the yard one night.. No shots were fired but I sure felt alot better with 8 shots in the tube.

lights are great when the dog has a racoon cornered at midnight by the wood shed.

[GMHAYESUSN]

Im not even a mossy fan and this is a nice looking shotgun! We need a range report to prove gearchecker is a little "misguided" about his opinion on uses and range for this fine weapon

[amd6547]

Nice shotgun...Gearcheckers post is troubling on many levels, but I will sum up my opinion of him by calling "zumbo-ism".
My Mossberg also wears a heat shield...mainly because I got it very cheap off ebay, and I grew up wanting a Model 97 trench gun...In any case, it does add a purpose built appearance to the weapon.
I also am not a fan of pistol grip shoulder stocks on Mossbergs, due in large part to the safety issue...tried one and didnt like it. Plus, I find I am quicker and the shotgun points better with a sporting profile traditional stock.
But the OP's tactical shotgun is his, not mine...if it fulfills his needs and he is happy, cool.