Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 Review

Let’s Dive into Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835

The Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 promises a sleek, weather-resistant, and compact solution for Mossberg shotgun owners. This stock replaces the standard stock with a side-folding mechanism, integrating a pistol grip and aiming for rapid deployment. Made by Choate Tool in the USA, this stock aims to enhance maneuverability and storage convenience.

I’ve been lugging around full-length shotguns for over a decade, both professionally and recreationally, and concealing them has always been a challenge. I needed a solution that would make my Mossberg 590 more compact for transport in my truck, especially during search and rescue operations.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the heft of the steel folding mechanism, which gave me confidence in its durability. The wood, while treated, felt a little rough compared to some aftermarket stocks I’ve handled; however, the overall construction felt solid. My initial thought was, “This thing is built like a tank,” which is often what I look for in tactical gear.

Compared to the ATI Top Folding Stock, which I’ve used in the past, the Choate Tool offering feels more robust, although not as comfortable due to the lack of a cheek rest. Also, against a Mesa Tactical Urbino stock, the Choate Tool is less about recoil reduction and more about pure compactness. I picked the Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 because it seemed like the most durable side-folding option, prioritizing ruggedness over comfort.

I was initially excited because the concept of a durable, side-folding stock with a pistol grip for my Mossberg 590 ticked all the right boxes for my needs. However, I also felt a bit apprehensive, wondering if the folding mechanism would hold up under repeated use in harsh conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 at my local outdoor shooting range, focusing on ease of deployment and accuracy at 25 yards. The weather was typical for late fall: damp, with temperatures hovering around 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

The stock performed reasonably well; however, shooting with the stock folded is awkward and should only be considered a last resort. While deployed, the pistol grip provided a solid purchase, but the absence of a cheek weld made consistent aiming challenging, especially during rapid fire.

The initial installation required some tinkering because the included bolt was slightly too long for my specific Mossberg 590 variant. After shortening the bolt, the install was a breeze. The folding mechanism was initially stiff but smoothed out after a few cycles.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use during training exercises, the Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 has held up remarkably well. There are minor scuffs on the wood finish, but the steel folding mechanism remains rock solid with no signs of loosening.

The finish shows minor wear on the high-contact points, and the wood has darkened slightly from exposure to the elements. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a CLP-soaked cloth is all it takes to keep it in good working order. The steel mechanism benefits from occasional lubrication with a dry-film lubricant.

Compared to my previous experiences with polymer stocks that cracked under heavy use, the Choate Tool stock’s robust construction inspires confidence. Although the ergonomics aren’t perfect, the enhanced durability and compactness far outweigh the slight decrease in comfort, and, I would say, meets my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835

Specifications

The Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 is designed to fit Mossberg 500, 600, 590, and 835 shotguns. It features a steel folding mechanism, a wood stock with pistol grip, and weighs in at 2 lbs 8 oz. The country of origin is the USA.

The Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835‘s steel folding mechanism ensures a secure lockup in both the open and folded positions, which is vital for reliability. The pistol grip enhances control and maneuverability, especially in close quarters. The weight adds to the overall stability of the shotgun, mitigating recoil to some degree.

Performance & Functionality

The Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 excels in its primary role: making the shotgun more compact for storage and transport. Its side-folding design allows for easy concealment in vehicles or backpacks.

A major strength is its robust construction; the steel hinge feels indestructible, providing confidence in its long-term reliability. A significant weakness is the lack of a comfortable cheek weld, which impacts accuracy, especially at longer ranges. While usable, the ergonomics with the stock folded are poor, and should only be used in dire situations.

It met my expectations in terms of durability and compactness but exceeded them with ease of installation; this could be due to previous negative experiences and poor quality of the products I have installed prior to using Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835. The product also exceeded my expectations regarding ruggedness because of the initial concerns with the wood material.

Design & Ergonomics

The Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835’s design prioritizes functionality over comfort. The wood stock, while durable, lacks the ergonomic contours found in higher-end polymer stocks, leading to a less comfortable shooting experience.

The build quality is excellent, with the steel folding mechanism being the standout feature. There is a slight learning curve associated with the folding mechanism, but it becomes intuitive with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its steel and wood construction, the Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 is built to last. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the folding mechanism will ensure smooth operation for years to come.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and cleaning supplies. The wood can be treated with a protective sealant to prevent moisture damage, increasing its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 comes with a matching forend that complements the stock’s aesthetic. Beyond that, customization options are limited, primarily focusing on adding a sling for easier carry.

While it doesn’t offer extensive accessory integration, the Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835 is compatible with most standard Mossberg 500/590 accessories, such as shell holders and rail attachments for the forend. Be sure to use the correct bolt.

Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Mossberg Side Folder for 500/600/590/835