The Mossberg 500 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability, affordability, and versatility. The Field/Deer combo model takes this classic design and enhances it with features tailored to both upland bird hunting and deer hunting, making it a popular choice for a wide range of shooters. This review dives deep into the Mossberg 500 Field/Deer combo, examining its strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for various hunting applications.
What Makes the Mossberg 500 Field/Deer Combo Unique?
The "combo" designation highlights the shotgun's adaptability. It typically comes with two barrels: a longer, more traditional field barrel ideal for bird hunting, and a shorter, rifled deer barrel designed for slug shooting. This dual-purpose functionality eliminates the need to own separate shotguns for different hunting styles, offering significant cost savings and convenience.
Key Features to Consider:
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Dual Barrels: The inclusion of both a field barrel (typically 28 inches) and a rifled deer barrel (often 24 inches) is the core selling point. The field barrel, with its longer sight radius, enhances accuracy for bird hunting, while the rifled deer barrel stabilizes slugs for more effective deer hunting.
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Pump-Action Reliability: Mossberg 500s are known for their robust pump action, providing smooth cycling even in adverse conditions. This reliability is crucial in hunting situations where malfunction could have serious consequences.
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Versatility: Beyond hunting, the Mossberg 500 Field/Deer combo can serve as a home-defense shotgun (with appropriate ammunition). Its adaptability makes it a valuable addition to any firearm collection.
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Affordability: Compared to many other shotguns offering similar features, the Mossberg 500 is remarkably affordable, making it accessible to a broader range of hunters.
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Customization Options: The Mossberg 500 platform allows for considerable customization. You can easily add accessories like different stocks, sights, and chokes to tailor the shotgun to your preferences.
Performance Analysis: Field vs. Deer Barrel
Field Barrel (typically 28 inches): This longer barrel contributes to improved accuracy and reduced recoil when shooting birdshot. The longer sight radius aids in precise target acquisition, crucial for hitting moving targets like birds. The ability to change chokes allows optimization for various shot patterns.
Rifled Deer Barrel (typically 24 inches): Designed specifically for shooting slugs, this barrel's rifling imparts spin to the slug, improving accuracy and range significantly compared to a smoothbore barrel. The shorter barrel can make it easier to maneuver in denser woods.
Pros and Cons of the Mossberg 500 Field/Deer Combo
Pros:
- Cost-effective: The combo offers two shotguns in one at a fraction of the cost of buying separately.
- Versatile: Suitable for various hunting scenarios, from upland birds to deer.
- Reliable: Mossberg 500s have a well-earned reputation for reliability.
- Easy to use: The pump-action mechanism is simple and intuitive.
- Customizable: Allows for personalization with various accessories.
Cons:
- Weight: The shotgun can be relatively heavy, especially for extended hunting trips.
- Recoil: While manageable, recoil can be noticeable, particularly with heavier slugs.
- Barrel swapping: While generally straightforward, swapping barrels does add a small amount of time and effort.
Who is the Mossberg 500 Field/Deer Combo for?
This shotgun is ideal for hunters on a budget who need a versatile firearm capable of handling both small game and larger deer. It’s a perfect choice for those who value reliability and ease of use above all else. It's not the lightest or most refined shotgun on the market, but its affordability and functionality make it a compelling option for many.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for the Budget-Conscious Hunter
The Mossberg 500 Field/Deer combo represents excellent value for its price. While it might not possess all the bells and whistles of higher-end shotguns, its reliability, versatility, and affordability make it a strong contender for hunters seeking a practical and effective firearm. If you're looking for a dependable shotgun for a variety of hunting situations without breaking the bank, the Mossberg 500 Field/Deer combo deserves serious consideration.
