The Mossberg 500 shotgun is a popular choice for hunters, sport shooters, and home defense enthusiasts alike. Its versatility is further enhanced by the ability to add accessories, and among the most popular additions is a saddle mount. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about Mossberg 500 saddle mounts, helping you choose the right one and understand its benefits and potential drawbacks.
What is a Mossberg 500 Saddle Mount?
A saddle mount is an accessory that attaches to the receiver of your Mossberg 500, providing a platform to mount additional barrels or accessories. This typically allows you to quickly and easily switch between different barrel configurations, such as a rifled slug barrel for hunting and a smoothbore barrel for birdshot. However, they are also used to mount optics and other accessories such as lights or lasers. The term "saddle" refers to the way the mount sits atop the receiver, resembling a saddle on a horse.
Benefits of Using a Mossberg 500 Saddle Mount
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Rapid Barrel Changes: The primary advantage is the ability to swiftly change barrels depending on your needs. This is particularly beneficial for hunters who might need to switch between birdshot for smaller game and slugs for larger animals.
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Increased Versatility: A saddle mount transforms your Mossberg 500 into a more versatile firearm, capable of handling a wider range of shooting scenarios.
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Enhanced Accuracy (with certain configurations): When used with a scope or red dot sight, a saddle mount can improve accuracy, especially for longer-range shooting with rifled slugs.
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Accessory Mounting: Some saddle mounts allow for the addition of other accessories, such as lights or lasers, further expanding the functionality of your shotgun.
Choosing the Right Mossberg 500 Saddle Mount
Several factors should be considered when choosing a saddle mount:
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Material: Most saddle mounts are constructed from durable materials such as steel or aluminum. Steel is typically more robust but heavier, while aluminum offers a lighter weight alternative.
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Compatibility: Ensure the saddle mount is explicitly compatible with your specific Mossberg 500 model. Not all mounts fit all models. Check the manufacturer's specifications carefully.
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Ease of Installation: Look for a mount that's easy to install and remove. A complicated installation process can be frustrating and time-consuming.
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Weight: Consider the added weight of the saddle mount and any additional barrels or accessories. An excessively heavy setup can affect handling and maneuverability.
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Price: Saddle mounts vary in price. Choose a mount that offers the features you need at a price point you're comfortable with. Don't necessarily assume the most expensive is the best.
Potential Drawbacks of Using a Mossberg 500 Saddle Mount
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Added Weight: As mentioned earlier, the extra weight can affect handling, especially for extended periods of use.
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Increased Cost: Adding a saddle mount and additional barrels increases the overall cost of your setup.
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Potential for Point of Impact Shift: Adding a saddle mount might slightly alter the point of impact, requiring re-sighting of your optics.
Conclusion
A Mossberg 500 saddle mount offers significant benefits in terms of versatility and functionality, particularly for hunters and those needing to switch between different barrel configurations quickly. However, potential drawbacks like added weight and cost should be considered. By carefully selecting a compatible, well-made mount, you can significantly enhance the capabilities of your Mossberg 500. Remember to always prioritize safety and practice responsible gun handling.
