Let’s Dive into Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge promises a simple and effective way to add optics to your trusty shotgun. Aimtech claims a user-friendly, no gunsmithing installation, allowing shooters to quickly expand their shotgun’s capabilities. This mount caters specifically to the popular Mossberg 500, 590, and Maverick 88 series in 20 gauge, offering a dedicated solution instead of a universal fit.
I recently picked up a used Maverick 88 in 20 gauge for turkey hunting, and the factory bead sight just wasn’t cutting it for longer shots in low light. My aging eyes needed some help acquiring targets quickly and accurately, so I started looking for a way to mount a red dot without permanently altering the shotgun. That’s how I stumbled upon the Aimtech mount.
Out of the box, the Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge feels solid, if a bit utilitarian. The aluminum construction is lightweight, yet seems sturdy enough to handle the recoil of a 20 gauge. It’s a simple, no-frills design, finished in a matte black that blends reasonably well with the shotgun’s receiver.
I considered a few other options, including saddle-style mounts that replace the trigger pins and some universal rail systems that require more modification. The Aimtech stood out because of its promise of easy installation and no permanent alterations to the firearm. I also liked that the iron sights remain usable with the mount installed.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The simple design and claimed ease of installation were appealing, but I was a little skeptical about how securely it would attach and how well it would hold zero. The protruding screw mentioned in some user reviews also gave me pause.
Real-World Testing: Putting Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge on my Maverick 88 in my garage, using the included tool. True to Aimtech’s claim, the installation took only a few minutes – less than five, even with my fumbling fingers. The mount slipped easily into place, and the screws tightened securely.
I took the shotgun to my local range for initial zeroing and testing. It was a crisp autumn day, perfect for shooting. I sighted in a red dot optic at 50 yards, and the mount held steady through about 50 rounds of birdshot and a few slugs.
The initial zero held surprisingly well, although I did notice a slight shift after the first few rounds of slugs. The ease of installation was definitely a plus, but the protruding screw was indeed a bit of an eyesore and did slightly interfere with my grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including a few turkey hunting trips and more range sessions, the Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge has held up reasonably well. The finish shows a few minor scratches from brushing against branches in the field, but the mount itself remains solid.
I haven’t had to re-tighten the screws, and the zero has remained consistent, with only minor adjustments needed after extended periods. Cleaning is simple – just wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use.
Compared to other mounts I’ve used on other firearms, the Aimtech is definitely on the simpler side. It doesn’t offer the rock-solid stability of a professionally installed rail, but for a no-gunsmithing option, it’s surprisingly robust. The protruding screw remains the biggest annoyance.
Breaking Down the Features of Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge
Specifications
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge is designed specifically for the Mossberg 500, 590, and Maverick 88 series shotguns chambered in 20 gauge. It’s finished in a matte black. It is constructed from extruded and machined high-strength aluminum alloy.
The mount features a Weaver-style base for attaching scopes, electronic sights, and lasers. It weighs approximately four ounces, minimizing added bulk. Installation requires no gunsmithing or sight removal, and the iron sights remain functional.
These specifications are crucial because they ensure a proper fit and reliable performance. The dedicated design for the 20 gauge Mossberg/Maverick series eliminates guesswork and potential compatibility issues. The Weaver-style base provides a wide range of optic options. The lightweight aluminum construction doesn’t significantly alter the shotgun’s balance or handling.
Performance & Functionality
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge performs its primary function – providing a stable platform for mounting optics – adequately. The mount allows for quick and easy attachment of red dot sights, scopes, or lasers.
Its strengths lie in its ease of installation and the fact that it doesn’t require any permanent modifications to the shotgun. The weakness is the slight instability compared to more permanent mounting solutions, and the protrusion of the extractor screw nut. It does meet expectations for a budget-friendly, no-gunsmithing optic mount, but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge has a simple, functional design. It is constructed from aluminum, keeping the weight low. The black finish blends reasonably well with the shotgun’s aesthetics.
The design is generally user-friendly, with minimal learning curve. The exception is the aforementioned protruding extractor screw nut, which can be slightly uncomfortable during operation and definitely detracts from the aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction of the Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge should provide reasonable durability for typical use. I expect it to last for many years with proper care. However, it’s not likely to withstand extreme abuse.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply wipe it down with a clean cloth and apply a light coat of oil to prevent corrosion. No special tools or procedures are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the installation tool. The Weaver-style base allows for the use of a wide variety of aftermarket optics, including red dot sights, scopes, and lasers.
Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is excellent, limited only by the Weaver-style base. The mount itself doesn’t offer any further customization options.
Pros and Cons of Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge
Pros
- Easy installation: Can be installed in minutes with the included tool, no gunsmithing required.
- Affordable: Provides a budget-friendly way to add optics to your shotgun.
- Lightweight: Aluminum construction minimizes added weight.
- Maintains iron sight functionality: Allows you to use your iron sights as a backup.
- Dedicated fit: Designed specifically for Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 20 gauge shotguns, ensuring proper fitment.
Cons
- Unsightly protruding screw: The extractor screw nut protrudes noticeably from the side of the receiver.
- Less stable than permanent mounts: May not provide the same level of stability as professionally installed rails.
- Finish can scratch easily: The matte black finish is prone to scratching.
Who Should Buy Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge?
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge is perfect for hunters on a budget who want to add a red dot or scope to their Mossberg 500, 590, or Maverick 88 20 gauge without permanently modifying their firearm. It’s also a good option for recreational shooters who want to experiment with optics without investing in expensive gunsmithing.
Those seeking the absolute most stable and rugged mounting solution should skip this product and consider a professionally installed rail. Also, individuals extremely concerned with aesthetics may find the protruding screw unacceptable.
A must-have accessory is a quality red dot sight or scope to take advantage of the mount. Some may also want to consider replacing the factory extractor screw with a shorter or countersunk screw to address the protrusion issue, though this may require some gunsmithing knowledge.
Conclusion on Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge offers a decent, affordable solution for mounting optics on your 20-gauge shotgun. Its ease of installation is a major selling point, and it does provide a functional platform for red dots, scopes, or lasers.
At a price of $51.99, the value proposition is reasonable. It’s not the most elegant or robust solution, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank or requiring a trip to the gunsmith.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a quick and easy way to add optics to their Mossberg 500, 590, or Maverick 88 20 gauge, keeping in mind its limitations. If you value simplicity and affordability over ultimate stability and aesthetics, this mount is worth considering. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the benefits of enhanced optics with the Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 Series Series 20 Gauge!