First Shotgun on the way!

[BoomStick82]

I started the paperwork for a new shotgun (It apparently takes a bit more time since I do not have an in-state license yet), and will be the proud owner of a Mossberg 500 with a ported 28" barrel and a 18.5" non-ported barrel as well. I get to pick it up on Friday. I already purchased 100 field loads (#8 birdshot, 3 dram equivalent) and 10 Federal Premium 00 buck (both 2.75"). I'm looking around for the nearest trap/skeet/clays club. I'm in Callaway county Missouri and would like to get involved in the shotgun sports, just looking for someone to help me (and my girlfriend if she is interested) out.

 

[Wannagohunting]

My favorite shotgun. I have 5 of them. If you have questions on 500's
feel free to ask.

 

[BoomStick82]

Will the 18.5" barrel I ordered from Havlin Sales just drop in, or should I take it to a gunsmith? I only ask because Havlin's website says that barrels should be fitted by a gunsmith, but I remember reading around that it is a simple DIY job to swap a barrel out on a 500.

Thanks

 

[danurve]

Swapping a barrel in/out of a 500 is very painless. Takes about 2 minutes if that. You might want to familiarize yourself with chokes and which ones with the correct restrictions to use for clays - slugs etc.

 

[Tiny in Ohio]

The 18.5" barrel is for social work, the 00 buck is best served from that barrel. The 28" barrel will work well for trap and skeet. Get yourself the 24" rifled slug barrel, and one shotgun will do it all. I have one myself, and it is a reliable shotgun, you will get many years of service from it. Let us know how you like it once you get it.

 

[BoomStick82]

That is the plan. I originally wanted to get the dual-comb stock and 24" rifled slug barrel, but my local wally-world was unable to order something that the official wal*mart website said they could, and I really didn't want to make a fuss. If I really need it I can get the dual-comb later. Has anyone used it? Is it helpfull or just a gimmick?

Thanks again.