First Thoughts on the Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount
The Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount promises a simple solution for adding optics to one of the most popular shotgun platforms in the world. As someone who has spent over a decade customizing and using tactical shotguns in various environments, I was particularly interested in evaluating the “no gunsmithing” aspect of this mount. Could Weaver really deliver a stable, reliable platform for optics without the need for professional installation? My curiosity was piqued.
I needed to mount a red dot sight on my Mossberg 500 for quicker target acquisition during home defense drills. I’d explored other options, like traditional saddle mounts that required drilling and tapping, but I wanted to avoid permanent modifications to my shotgun. The Weaver mount seemed like the perfect compromise – a temporary, yet hopefully robust, solution.
Upon unboxing the Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel. The black finish appeared durable and the mount itself felt substantial. It wasn’t lightweight plastic; it had a reassuring heft that suggested a well-made product.
I considered a few other options before settling on the Weaver mount. Some cheaper alternatives were available, but their reviews highlighted issues with loosening under recoil. Others required significant modification to the shotgun, which I wanted to avoid. The Weaver mount offered the best balance of ease of installation and perceived quality.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The mount looked good and felt solid, but the real test would be in its installation and performance. If it could hold zero and withstand the rigors of repeated shotgun blasts, it would be a worthwhile addition to my arsenal.
Real-World Testing: Putting Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount was at my local shooting range. I tested the mount with a variety of 12-gauge loads, ranging from light target loads to heavier buckshot rounds, to assess its stability under different recoil conditions. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, as promised.
The mount held up well initially. After about 25 rounds, I noticed a slight loosening of the screws, but a quick retightening seemed to resolve the issue. Accuracy with my mounted red dot was good, and target acquisition was noticeably faster than with the stock bead sight.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount has proven to be a mixed bag. While the initial installation was easy, maintaining its tightness has been an ongoing concern. I’ve found that I need to check and retighten the screws every 50 rounds or so, especially when using heavier loads.
Despite the need for frequent adjustments, the mount has held up reasonably well in terms of durability. There are no signs of cracking or bending, and the finish remains intact. Cleaning is also relatively simple; a quick wipe-down with a gun cleaning solvent is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous experiences with saddle mounts, this Weaver mount is less cumbersome to install, but requires more frequent maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount
Specifications
The Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount is designed specifically for Mossberg 500 12-gauge shotguns. It features a black anodized aluminum construction for durability. The mount uses existing receiver pins for attachment, eliminating the need for drilling or tapping.
The mount provides a Weaver-style rail for attaching various optics, such as red dot sights or scopes. Its “no gunsmithing” design makes it appealing to users who want a quick and easy way to add optics without permanently altering their firearm. This is key for those who want to maintain the shotgun’s original configuration.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount is to provide a stable platform for mounting optics on a Mossberg 500 shotgun. When properly installed and maintained, it performs adequately, allowing for improved accuracy and faster target acquisition. However, its weakness lies in its tendency to loosen under recoil.
The mount’s strength is undoubtedly its ease of installation. Its main weakness is the need for frequent retightening of screws to maintain a stable zero. The mount meets expectations for ease of installation, but falls short on long-term stability without regular maintenance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount features a simple and functional design. The black anodized aluminum construction gives it a solid feel, and it blends well with the overall aesthetics of the Mossberg 500. Its weight is negligible, adding minimal bulk to the shotgun.
The mount is generally user-friendly, requiring only basic tools for installation. However, the design could benefit from incorporating a locking mechanism or thread locker to prevent screws from loosening. The installation process is beginner-friendly, but ensuring long-term stability requires more advanced knowledge.
Durability & Maintenance
The Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount appears to be reasonably durable, with no signs of significant wear and tear after several weeks of use. However, its long-term lifespan will depend on how well it is maintained. Regular cleaning and tightening of screws are essential to prevent issues.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only basic gun cleaning supplies. However, the need for frequent adjustments is a notable drawback. Proper maintenance will extend the life of the mount, but it demands consistent attention.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount itself doesn’t come with any accessories. Its primary function is to provide a platform for mounting Weaver-style optics. The mount is compatible with a wide range of red dot sights, scopes, and other optical accessories that use the Weaver rail system.
While the mount itself doesn’t offer customization options, the optics you attach to it can significantly alter the shotgun’s performance and capabilities. Choosing the right optic can transform the Mossberg 500 into a versatile and accurate firearm.
Pros and Cons of Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount
Pros
- Easy “no gunsmithing” installation.
- Solid aluminum construction.
- Compatible with a wide range of Weaver-style optics.
- Provides improved accuracy and faster target acquisition.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Requires frequent retightening of screws.
- Not as stable as a professionally installed mount.
- May not be suitable for very heavy recoil loads.
Who Should Buy Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount?
The Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount is perfect for Mossberg 500 owners who want to add optics without permanently modifying their firearm. It’s also a good option for those on a budget or who lack the skills to install a more complex mounting system. This mount is best for home defense or recreational shooting where the shotgun is not subjected to extreme conditions.
Those who should skip this product are shooters who require absolute stability and reliability, such as law enforcement or competitive shooters. A professionally installed saddle mount would be a better choice for them.
A must-have accessory would be a quality thread locker (such as Loctite) to help prevent screws from loosening.
Conclusion on Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount
The Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount offers a convenient and affordable way to add optics to a Mossberg 500 shotgun. While it’s not without its drawbacks, particularly the need for frequent adjustments, it delivers on its promise of easy installation and improved accuracy. The price is justified for those seeking a temporary or non-permanent solution.
I would personally recommend it to casual shooters and home defense enthusiasts who are comfortable with regular maintenance. Just be aware of its limitations and be prepared to check and tighten the screws frequently. If you’re looking for a quick and easy upgrade to your Mossberg 500, the Weaver No Gunsmithing Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotgun Mount is worth considering.