The Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny Made a Bold First Impression
The Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny promises to modernize a classic shotgun. It boasts a polymer body coupled with aluminum Picatinny rails, instantly appealing to shooters looking to accessorize their Mossberg 500. I’ve spent years customizing firearms, and the promise of adding lights, lasers, or foregrips to my trusty 12-gauge was definitely intriguing.
My old Mossberg 500 is a workhorse, reliable but undeniably dated. It lacked the modularity I’ve come to appreciate in other platforms, making accessory attachment a chore. I considered other forends, but the Aim Sports model seemed to offer a good balance of affordability and functionality. The Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny appeared to be the quickest and easiest solution to modernizing it.
Out of the box, the forend felt surprisingly robust. The polymer felt denser than expected, and the aluminum rails were securely mounted. Compared to the basic polymer forend it replaced, the Aim Sports offering felt like a significant upgrade. It definitely sparked excitement knowing I could finally attach a weapon light without clumsy adapters.
Real-World Testing: Putting Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny was at an outdoor range on a sunny, slightly breezy day. I primarily tested it with a tactical light and a vertical foregrip attached to the rails. Recoil management was noticeably improved with the added grip options.
The grip felt secure even after repeated shots. I encountered no issues related to heat or slippage. One initial concern was how the polymer would hold up to extended use, but that was quickly put to rest.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny has proven to be remarkably durable. The polymer body shows no signs of cracking or warping. The aluminum rails remain firmly attached even after numerous accessory changes.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most residue. I haven’t needed any specialized cleaning products. It certainly outpaces my expectations and enhances the functionality of my shotgun without adding excessive weight.
Breaking Down the Features of Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny
Specifications
The Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny features a durable polymer body designed for easy installation. The black anodized aircraft-grade aluminum side rails offer ample space for attaching Picatinny/Weaver compatible accessories. It’s specifically designed for the Mossberg 500 12-gauge shotgun, ensuring a snug and secure fit. The forend weighs approximately 8 ounces, adding minimal weight to the firearm.
These specifications matter because they directly affect the shotgun’s functionality and handling. The aluminum rails provide a stable platform for accessories, and the polymer body ensures durability without unnecessary weight. The easy installation means no gunsmithing is required, allowing anyone to quickly upgrade their shotgun.
Performance & Functionality
The Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny performs its primary job exceptionally well: providing a stable platform for accessories. The added rails allow for the attachment of lights, lasers, foregrips, and other tactical equipment. The forend itself feels solid and contributes to improved recoil control when used with a vertical grip.
One minor weakness is the potential for the polymer to become slippery when wet, but this is easily mitigated with textured grip panels. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations, transforming a basic shotgun into a versatile tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is impressive for its price point. The polymer feels sturdy and the aluminum rails are precisely machined. The Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny feels comfortable in hand.
There’s virtually no learning curve involved. The installation is straightforward, and the added rails immediately enhance the shotgun’s usability.
Durability & Maintenance
The Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny is built to last. The polymer body and aluminum rails are resistant to wear and tear under normal usage conditions. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny is compatible with any standard Weaver/Picatinny 1913 accessories. This includes a wide range of tactical lights, lasers, vertical foregrips, and even small red dot sights. The versatility of this customization is a major selling point.
Pros and Cons of Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny
Pros
- Provides a stable and secure platform for attaching accessories.
- Easy to install with no gunsmithing required.
- Durable polymer body and aircraft-grade aluminum rails.
- Significantly improves recoil control when used with a vertical grip.
- Affordable upgrade that dramatically enhances the shotgun’s functionality.
Cons
- Polymer can become slightly slippery when wet.
- The rails might add some bulk to the forend, which some users might dislike.
Who Should Buy Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny?
The Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny is perfect for home defense enthusiasts and tactical shooters. Those seeking to add lights, lasers, or foregrips to their Mossberg 500 will greatly benefit. It’s also ideal for anyone wanting to modernize their shotgun without breaking the bank.
Those prioritizing a sleek, minimalist design should skip this product. If you prefer a more traditional shotgun setup without accessories, this forend isn’t for you. Must-have accessories include a quality weapon light and a comfortable vertical foregrip to maximize its potential.
Conclusion on Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny
The Aim Sports Mossberg 500 Forend Polymer w/Aluminum Side Rails Picatinny is a solid and affordable upgrade that significantly enhances the functionality of the Mossberg 500. The price is definitely justified considering the added versatility and improved handling. I would personally recommend this forend to anyone looking to modernize their shotgun without spending a fortune.
It is a simple, effective way to bring your Mossberg 500 into the 21st century. Go ahead and give your old shotgun a new lease on life; you won’t regret it.