Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm, Black AW12000 – 1 out of 2 models Review

What Makes Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm, Black AW12000 – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?

The Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm, Black AW12000 – 1 out of 2 models, manufactured by Barska, promises to enhance the versatility of the Mossberg 500A shotgun. It’s a lower accessory forearm rail system designed to allow users to easily attach accessories like bipods, flashlights, and foregrips. This simple upgrade aims to modernize a classic shotgun and increase its tactical potential.

For years, I’ve relied on my Mossberg 500A for everything from home defense to sporting clays. However, I’ve always felt limited by the lack of accessory mounting options. I needed a way to reliably mount a weapon light for nighttime pest control and a vertical foregrip to improve handling during rapid firing drills, without permanently modifying the shotgun’s original furniture. I was searching for a product that added utility without sacrificing the shotgun’s reliability.

Upon unboxing the Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm, I immediately noticed the solid feel of the aluminum construction. The black matte finish appeared durable and well-applied. The accessory rails looked precisely machined, and the overall weight felt appropriate—substantial enough to suggest quality but not so heavy as to make the shotgun unwieldy.

I considered a few other options, including some polymer-based forearms and even a complete replacement stock with integrated rails. I opted for the Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm due to its all-aluminum construction, relatively low price point, and promise of easy installation without needing to replace the entire stock. It appeared to offer the best balance of durability, functionality, and affordability. Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. I’ve had mixed experiences with aftermarket shotgun accessories in the past, but the promise of Picatinny rail versatility was definitely appealing.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm, Black AW12000 – 1 out of 2 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm at my local shooting range during a practical shotgun session. I attached a weapon light to the lower rail and a vertical foregrip to one of the side rails. The range session included a variety of drills, from static target shooting to more dynamic movement exercises.

The Barska forearm performed admirably, even under rapid fire conditions. The weapon light stayed securely mounted, and the foregrip provided a noticeable improvement in recoil control and muzzle stability. I encountered no issues with the mounting hardware loosening or shifting during the session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and multiple range trips, the Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the aluminum body, and the black matte finish has proven to be scratch-resistant. The rails have remained firmly attached, even after repeated mounting and dismounting of accessories.

Maintaining the forearm is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each range session is all that’s needed to remove powder residue and grime. I previously used a standard polymer forend and this product is far superior in terms of stability and accessory mounting options. It has definitely exceeded my initial expectations and improved the functionality of my Mossberg 500A.

Breaking Down the Features of Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm, Black AW12000 – 1 out of 2 models

Specifications

• Rail Type: Picatinny Style and Weaver Style rails offer versatile mounting options. This allows the user to attach a wide variety of accessories.
• Rail Length: The 4.5-inch rail length provides adequate space for mounting multiple accessories. Longer rails can be unwieldy, so the length strikes a good balance.
• Body Material: Constructed from aluminum, the Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm offers durability and resistance to wear and tear. Aluminum is a robust material that won’t easily break.
• Finish: The black matte finish provides a non-reflective surface. The matte finish prevents glare and reduces visibility.
• Applicable Firearm: Designed to fit the Mossberg 500A shotgun (and potentially the 500C 20 gauge and similar models). Compatibility is key, ensuring proper fit and function.

Performance & Functionality

The Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm excels at providing a stable and secure mounting platform for accessories. The Picatinny and Weaver style rails offer ample space and compatibility with a wide range of lights, lasers, and grips. The forearm itself is comfortable to grip, and the added weight doesn’t negatively impact the shotgun’s handling.

One potential area for improvement would be the inclusion of some sort of heat shield. During extended shooting sessions, the aluminum can get quite warm. However, for most users, this is a minor issue. The product meets and exceeds my expectations for enhancing the versatility of my Mossberg 500A.

Design & Ergonomics

The Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm features a simple and functional design. The aluminum construction feels solid and well-made, and the black matte finish gives it a tactical aesthetic. The forearm is comfortable to grip, even with gloves.

There’s a slight learning curve when installing the forearm, but the process is relatively straightforward. The instructions are clear, and most users should be able to complete the installation in under 15 minutes.

Durability & Maintenance

The aluminum construction ensures that the Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm is built to last. It can withstand the rigors of regular use and is resistant to scratches and dents. Minimal maintenance is required. Simply wiping the forearm down after use is usually sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary function of the Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm is to provide a platform for mounting accessories. It’s compatible with any accessory that uses Picatinny or Weaver style mounts. This includes weapon lights, lasers, foregrips, bipods, and sling mounts.

The Barska forearm doesn’t come with any included accessories, but it’s compatible with a wide variety of aftermarket options. This allows users to customize their shotgun to meet their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm, Black AW12000 – 1 out of 2 models

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm, Black AW12000 – 1 out of 2 models?

The Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm is perfect for hunters, home defenders, and tactical shooters who want to add versatility to their Mossberg 500A shotgun. Anyone who wants to mount lights, lasers, or grips will benefit from this product. It’s also a good option for those who want to modernize the look and feel of their shotgun without making permanent modifications.

This product may not be ideal for shooters who prioritize lightweight configurations. The aluminum forearm does add some weight to the front of the shotgun. Those who are strictly concerned with maintaining the original, classic look of their Mossberg 500A might also want to skip this product. A weapon light is a must-have accessory to immediately take advantage of the rail system.

Conclusion on Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm, Black AW12000 – 1 out of 2 models

The Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm, Black AW12000 – 1 out of 2 models is a well-made and functional accessory that significantly enhances the versatility of the Mossberg 500A shotgun. At $60.80, the price is justified given the durable construction and improved functionality. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking to add accessories to their Mossberg 500A.

If you’re ready to modernize your shotgun and unlock its full potential, the Barska Mossberg 500A Forearm is a solid investment. Upgrade your Mossberg 500A today and experience the difference!