Mossberg 514 Kit w/14 inch Heavy Wall Barrel, Review

Let’s Talk About Mossberg 514 Kit w/14 inch Heavy Wall Barrel,

The Mossberg 514 Kit w/14 inch Heavy Wall Barrel, represents a unique offering in the shotgun world. It’s a chance to build a compact, potent firearm from a trusted manufacturer. The kit includes a 14″ heavy wall barrel, magazine tube, action slide assembly, forearm, action nut, magazine spring retainer, and magazine cap, essentially providing all the core components needed to create a short-barreled 12-gauge shotgun (SBS).

I was looking for a project gun; something I could customize and tailor to my specific needs. The Mossberg 514 Kit immediately caught my attention. I’ve always been fascinated by the versatility of short-barreled shotguns, and this kit offered a relatively affordable entry point.

Upon unboxing, the components felt solid and well-made. The heavy wall barrel exudes quality. The action slide assembly moved smoothly, and the forearm had a reassuring heft.

I considered a few other options before settling on the Mossberg 514 Kit. A complete, factory-built SBS was significantly more expensive. Building from scratch with individually sourced parts seemed like a recipe for headaches. I chose this kit because it offered a balance of affordability, quality components, and the satisfaction of building my own firearm (after proper NFA paperwork, of course).

My initial reaction was excitement tempered with respect. Building an SBS is not something to take lightly, and the Mossberg name carries a certain expectation of quality and reliability. I was eager to see if this kit would live up to that reputation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mossberg 514 Kit w/14 inch Heavy Wall Barrel, to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range trip with the completed Mossberg 514 was…intense. I primarily tested it at an outdoor range on a clear, sunny day. The recoil was significant, as expected with a short-barreled 12-gauge.

I quickly learned to respect the power of this firearm. The shorter barrel made maneuvering in tight spaces easier. But I also realized the importance of a proper stance and grip to control the recoil.

There were no malfunctions during the initial testing. However, the shorter sight radius took some getting used to for accurate aiming. The bead sight was adequate, but I knew I’d eventually want to explore other sighting options.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Mossberg 514 has proven to be surprisingly reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, ranging from birdshot to slugs. I’ve noticed no significant wear and tear beyond normal cosmetic scratches.

Cleaning is relatively straightforward. The Mossberg design is known for its simplicity, which extends to disassembly and maintenance. Regular cleaning and lubrication have kept it running smoothly.

Compared to other shotguns I’ve owned, the Mossberg 514 Kit is in a different category altogether. It’s not a clay shooter or a long-range hunting gun. It’s a compact, powerful tool designed for close-quarters situations. It’s met, and in some ways exceeded, my expectations for that role.

Breaking Down the Features of Mossberg 514 Kit w/14 inch Heavy Wall Barrel,

Specifications

The Mossberg 514 Kit w/14 inch Heavy Wall Barrel, includes the following components:

• 14″ Heavy Wall Barrel with Bead Sight: The heavy wall construction adds strength and helps manage recoil. The bead sight is a simple, effective aiming solution.
• 12 Gauge, 3″ Chamber: This allows for a wide range of ammunition options, from light target loads to heavy magnum rounds. The 3″ chamber provides increased firepower.
• Magazine Tube: Designed to hold multiple 12-gauge shells, capacity will vary based on the receiver used. The tube provides the feeding mechanism for pump action reliability.
• Action Slide Assembly: This critical part facilitates the pump-action cycling of the shotgun. It enables smooth and consistent shell extraction and loading.
• Forearm: Provides a secure grip for cycling the action. Its design affects comfort and control during rapid firing.
• Action Nut: Secures the forearm to the action slide assembly. This part ensures the integrity of the pump action.
• Magazine Spring Retainer & Magazine Cap: These components work together to keep the magazine spring in place and allow for easy disassembly for cleaning and maintenance. They ensure proper magazine function and ease of service.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and performance of the final assembled firearm. The heavy wall barrel contributes to durability and recoil management. The 12-gauge chambering provides significant stopping power.

Performance & Functionality

The Mossberg 514 Kit performs admirably when properly assembled and maintained. The pump action is reliable and smooth. Accuracy is acceptable for its intended close-quarters role.

The primary strength is its compactness and maneuverability. The short barrel makes it ideal for situations where space is limited. The primary weakness is the recoil, which can be challenging to manage for inexperienced shooters.

This kit meets my expectations for a project gun. It provides a solid foundation for building a specialized firearm.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional. The heavy wall barrel adds weight but also contributes to a feeling of robustness. The forearm provides a decent grip.

There is a slight learning curve, especially for those unfamiliar with shotguns or the assembly process. Proper assembly and maintenance are critical.

Durability & Maintenance

The Mossberg 514 Kit components appear to be durable and well-made. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining smooth operation. The simplicity of the design makes it relatively easy to repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The kit itself doesn’t come with many accessories. However, the Mossberg platform is known for its extensive aftermarket support. Numerous customization options exist.

Popular accessories include:

• Sling attachments: Essential for carrying the shotgun. They provide comfortable and secure carry options.
• Optics (red dots, lasers): Enhance aiming capabilities. These offer faster target acquisition in close quarters.
• Aftermarket forearms (with rails): Allow for mounting lights and other accessories. They provide increased modularity and customization.
• Different grips: Improve ergonomics and control. These offer personalized comfort and handling.

The kit is compatible with many standard Mossberg accessories. This allows for a high degree of customization to suit individual needs.

Pros and Cons of Mossberg 514 Kit w/14 inch Heavy Wall Barrel,

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Who Should Buy Mossberg 514 Kit w/14 inch Heavy Wall Barrel,?

This kit is perfect for experienced firearms enthusiasts who are looking for a project gun and understand the NFA regulations. It’s also suitable for those who need a compact and powerful firearm for specific applications. These could include home defense or situations where maneuverability is paramount.

This product should be skipped by those who are new to firearms. Also it is not ideal for individuals who are uncomfortable with the legal requirements of owning an NFA item. This is not a plug-and-play solution.

Must-have accessories include a quality sling, hearing protection, and potentially an upgraded sighting system. Consider a recoil-reducing grip or stock to mitigate the significant recoil.

Conclusion on Mossberg 514 Kit w/14 inch Heavy Wall Barrel,

The Mossberg 514 Kit w/14 inch Heavy Wall Barrel, offers a unique opportunity to build a compact and potent firearm. It requires careful consideration of NFA regulations and a willingness to undertake a project. However, the result is a reliable and customizable short-barreled shotgun.

The price is justified for those who value the combination of affordability, quality components, and the satisfaction of building their own firearm. It is a specialized tool that fills a specific niche.

I would personally recommend it to experienced shooters who are looking for a project and understand the responsibilities of owning an NFA item. Dive into the world of SBS ownership with the Mossberg 514 Kit – but do your homework first!