Let’s Dive into Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights
The Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights is a dedicated slug barrel designed to enhance the accuracy and range of your Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag shotgun. Offered by Mossberg, this barrel features a fully rifled bore, adjustable sights, and a blued finish, transforming your versatile shotgun into a precision slug-shooting platform. It’s an attractive option for hunters looking for that extra level of accuracy when deer hunting in areas where shotguns are required, or for those who simply want to squeeze every last bit of performance from their trusted 835.
My need for this barrel arose from a desire to extend the effective range of my Mossberg 835 during deer season in my home state. The regulations require shotgun-only hunting in many areas, and I wanted a setup that offered more precision than a smoothbore with bead sights could provide. I unboxed the barrel on a crisp autumn afternoon, and my initial impression was of a robust, well-made piece of equipment. The blued finish was even and deep, and the adjustable sights appeared rugged and functional.
Compared to a smoothbore barrel or even a cantilever scope mount option, I chose the Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights for its simplicity and potential for accuracy. While a scope offers magnification, I preferred the challenge and reliability of iron sights for this particular application. My first impression was a mix of excitement and anticipation; I was eager to see how much this barrel would improve my shotgun’s accuracy with slugs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights took place at my local shooting range. The weather was fair with a slight breeze, providing decent testing conditions. I started at 50 yards, and was immediately impressed with the improvement in accuracy compared to my old smoothbore barrel. It did take a few shots to dial in the adjustable sights, but once zeroed, the slugs were grouping consistently within a 4-inch circle.
I also tested the barrel in slightly wetter conditions a few weeks later, during a sighting-in session just before the deer season opened. The rain didn’t seem to affect the performance of the sights or the barrel, but I made sure to thoroughly clean and dry everything afterwards. The barrel installed easily and securely on my Mossberg 835 receiver. There were no issues with fit or function.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my shotgun. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the blued finish, and the adjustable sights remain secure and accurate. Cleaning the rifled bore is straightforward, although it does require a bit more attention than a smoothbore to remove lead fouling. Compared to past experiences with other aftermarket barrels, the Mossberg barrel delivers significantly better accuracy and consistency with sabot slugs.
Breaking Down the Features of Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights
Specifications
Caliber: 12 Gauge – This is the standard gauge for the Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of slug loads.
Barrel Length: 24″ – The optimal length for maximizing slug velocity and accuracy in a shotgun barrel.
Sights: Adjustable – This allows for precise zeroing and compensation for different slug loads and distances.
Bore Type: Fully Rifled – Crucial for imparting spin to slugs, dramatically improving accuracy and extending range.
Finish: Blued – A traditional finish that provides some corrosion resistance and a classic aesthetic.
Model Compatibility: 835 Ulti-Mag Slug – Specifically designed for the Mossberg 835 platform.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the performance and accuracy of the Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights. The rifled bore is the most significant feature, as it transforms the shotgun from a close-range, area-of-effect weapon to a more precise, longer-range tool. The adjustable sights allow users to fine-tune their zero for specific loads and distances, further enhancing accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights performs its intended job of accurately launching slugs exceptionally well. It provides a noticeable increase in accuracy and effective range compared to a smoothbore barrel. The strength lies in its consistent performance and reliable construction, however, improving the sighting system could make this an even better option. I’m using high-quality sabot slugs, the groups are consistently tight at 100 yards.
The barrel has exceeded my expectations in terms of accuracy and ease of use. It truly unlocks the potential of the Mossberg 835 as a dedicated slug gun.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights is solid and robust. The blued steel is well-finished, and the adjustable sights are securely mounted and easy to manipulate. The weight is balanced well, and I am able to shoulder the firearm without too much additional weight.
The barrel is user-friendly and requires no special tools or modifications for installation. There is a slight learning curve in dialing in the adjustable sights, but once zeroed, they hold their position well.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights appears to be built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning the bore after each use is essential to prevent lead fouling and maintain accuracy.
Standard gun cleaning solvents and brushes are sufficient for maintenance. A dedicated bore brush designed for rifled barrels is recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights is primarily designed to enhance the accuracy of slug shooting and doesn’t offer extensive customization options beyond that. However, different types of slugs can be used to fine-tune performance. Aftermarket sight options, such as fiber optic sights, could potentially be installed, although this might require gunsmithing.
The barrel is compatible with any Mossberg 835 receiver. Most importantly, ensure that you use slugs specifically designed for rifled barrels, such as sabot slugs, to achieve optimal accuracy and performance.
Pros and Cons of Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights
Pros
- Significantly improves accuracy with slugs, extending effective range for hunting.
- Adjustable sights allow for precise zeroing and compensation for different loads.
- Durable blued steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install on any Mossberg 835 receiver.
- Provides a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a dedicated slug gun.
Cons
- May require some initial sight adjustment to achieve optimal zero.
- Rifled bore requires more thorough cleaning than a smoothbore barrel.
Who Should Buy Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights?
The Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights is perfect for hunters who need to use shotguns in their hunting areas and desire increased accuracy with slugs. It’s also ideal for those who already own a Mossberg 835 and want to expand its versatility. Someone looking for a precision slug-shooting platform without the expense of buying a dedicated slug gun will benefit greatly from this barrel.
This product might not be the best choice for hunters who primarily hunt in very close-range environments or who prefer using buckshot. Those who prioritize speed over precision might also find the adjustable sights unnecessary. A must-have accessory is a quality set of bore brushes designed for rifled barrels, as well as a selection of high-quality sabot slugs to test and find the best load for your particular shotgun.
Conclusion on Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights
Overall, the Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights is an excellent addition to any Mossberg 835 owner’s arsenal. It provides a significant boost in accuracy and effective range when shooting slugs, making it a valuable tool for hunters in shotgun-only areas. At $279.99, the price is justified by the improved performance and versatility it offers.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this barrel to anyone looking to enhance the slug-shooting capabilities of their Mossberg 835. If you’re ready to take your shotgun hunting to the next level, the Mossberg 92802 835 12 Gauge 24″ Blue Adj Sights is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your Mossberg 835 today and experience the difference!