Let’s Dive into Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590
The Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 is designed to enhance the functionality of two of the most popular shotgun platforms on the market. Manufactured by TacStar, this accessory combines a top Picatinny rail for optics mounting with a convenient six-shell sidesaddle, all in a lightweight and durable aluminum package. It promises to streamline your Mossberg 500 or 590, but does it deliver on its promises?
I’ve always been a fan of customizing my firearms to suit specific needs, and the Mossberg 500 is a workhorse that deserves some love. I was looking for a way to mount a red dot optic and have readily accessible spare shells without adding excessive bulk to my shotgun. Enter the Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590.
Out of the box, the Tacstar rail mount felt solid. The anodized aluminum construction gives it a robust yet lightweight feel, and the sidesaddle seems well-integrated. Compared to other standalone sidesaddle options I’ve used, this seemed less likely to shift or loosen over time. My initial excitement was tempered only by the knowledge that installation could be tricky.
I had considered a few other options, like adhesive shell carriers and separate rail mounts. Ultimately, I chose the Tacstar because of its all-in-one design and reputation for quality. I was hoping for a seamless integration that would improve both my sighting and reloading capabilities. Let’s see if I was right!
Real-World Testing: Putting Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 was at an outdoor shooting range. I ran several drills, focusing on transitioning between targets and reloading from the sidesaddle. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and a bit chilly.
The sidesaddle functioned flawlessly, holding the shells securely yet allowing for quick access. I did find that the added weight of the shells on the side slightly affected the shotgun’s balance. The top rail provided a stable platform for my red dot sight, though it took a few adjustments to get the optic properly zeroed.
One initial observation was the height of the rail, which partially obstructed the bead sight, as mentioned in user feedback. This didn’t bother me too much since I was using an optic, but it’s a significant consideration for those who prefer iron sights. The installation also did leave some minor scratches on the receiver as the one reviewer mentioned.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a few simulated home defense scenarios, the Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 has proven to be quite durable. There are some minor scratches on the finish from handling and use, but nothing that affects its functionality. The shell retention on the sidesaddle remains strong and consistent.
Cleaning is relatively straightforward. I simply wipe down the aluminum surfaces with a lightly oiled cloth after each use. Periodically, I check the mounting screws to ensure they remain tight. So far, I haven’t experienced any issues with loosening or shifting.
Compared to other shotgun accessories I’ve used, the Tacstar stands out for its integrated design and robust construction. It has definitely improved my efficiency in reloading drills. I feel much more confident in having readily available spare rounds.
Breaking Down the Features of Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590
Specifications
The Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 boasts several key specifications. It is designed specifically for 12-gauge Mossberg 500 and 590 shotguns. The unit is constructed from billet aluminum with a non-glare hard coat anodized finish.
The top Picatinny rail is designed for mounting various accessories, while still allowing (albeit partially) use of the standard bead sight. The sidesaddle holds six 12-gauge shells. It utilizes TacStar’s proprietary material for secure shell retention and durability.
These specifications translate to a lightweight yet strong accessory that enhances the shotgun’s capabilities without adding excessive weight. The aluminum construction ensures corrosion resistance and longevity. The sidesaddle’s secure retention is crucial for reliable reloading.
Performance & Functionality
The Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 performs its primary functions admirably. The top rail provides a stable platform for mounting optics, allowing for improved accuracy and target acquisition. The sidesaddle offers quick and easy access to six additional shells.
The main strength is its integrated design, which combines two essential accessories into a single unit. The one area for improvement is the height of the rail, which slightly obscures the bead sight. The sidesaddle’s reliable shell retention is critical for tactical applications.
Overall, the Tacstar mount meets and generally exceeds expectations. It is a well-designed and functional accessory that enhances the capabilities of the Mossberg 500/590. It does exactly what it should do, albeit with a slightly high rail height.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 features a streamlined and functional design. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, while the anodized finish provides a durable and non-reflective surface. The sidesaddle is integrated seamlessly into the mount, keeping a low profile.
The ergonomics are generally good. The added weight of the shells on the side does require some adjustment in handling. The sidesaddle design ensures easy access to shells without interfering with the shotgun’s operation.
The initial installation can be a bit fiddly, but once installed, the mount feels solid and secure. The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 is built to last. The aluminum construction and anodized finish are resistant to corrosion and wear. With proper care, this accessory should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient to keep it in good condition. Periodically checking the mounting screws will prevent loosening.
The durable construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use. Based on my experience, I expect it to last for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 is primarily an accessory mount itself, but it opens up possibilities for further customization. The top Picatinny rail is compatible with a wide range of optics, including red dot sights, holographic sights, and scopes. The user feedback above seems to also imply that modifications to the front sight may be necessary if a red dot is not used.
The sidesaddle is designed for standard 12-gauge shells, including buckshot, slugs, and birdshot. There are no specific Tacstar accessories designed for use with this mount, but its compatibility with standard Picatinny rail accessories allows for extensive customization.
The ability to mount a variety of optics significantly enhances the shotgun’s versatility. The sidesaddle provides a convenient and reliable way to carry spare ammunition.
Pros and Cons of Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590
Pros
- Durable aluminum construction with a non-glare anodized finish for long-lasting performance.
- Integrated Picatinny rail and six-shell sidesaddle combines two essential accessories into one.
- Secure shell retention ensures quick and reliable access to spare ammunition.
- Relatively easy installation process that most shotgun owners can manage themselves.
- Enhances the versatility of Mossberg 500/590 shotguns for various applications.
Cons
- Rail height slightly obstructs the standard bead sight for those who prefer iron sights.
- Installation can cause minor scratches to the shotgun’s receiver finish.
- Added weight of the shells on the side can slightly affect the shotgun’s balance.
Who Should Buy Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590?
The Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 is perfect for: home defense enthusiasts, tactical shooters, and hunters who want to enhance the versatility and firepower of their Mossberg 500 or 590 shotguns. It’s a great addition for anyone who wants to mount optics and have readily available spare shells.
Those who should skip this product: individuals who primarily rely on iron sights and are unwilling to switch to optics. Also, if you prioritize a super lightweight shotgun setup, the added weight may not be ideal.
Must-have accessories or modifications: a quality red dot sight or holographic sight to take full advantage of the Picatinny rail. Some users might also consider upgrading the front sight to compensate for the rail height.
Conclusion on Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590
Overall, the Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 is a well-designed and functional accessory that enhances the capabilities of the Mossberg 500 and 590 shotguns. Its integrated design, durable construction, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to improve their shotgun’s versatility and firepower.
The price of $86.59 is justified by the quality of construction and the added functionality it provides. It is a reasonable price point for a durable, high-quality accessory that combines two essential features.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their Mossberg 500 or 590 for home defense, tactical applications, or hunting. If you want to improve your shotgun’s effectiveness and have readily available spare ammunition, the Tacstar Shotgun Rail Mount With Sidesaddle for 12 Gauge Mossberg 500/590 is a solid choice. Go ahead and give your shotgun the upgrade it deserves.