First Thoughts on the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga.
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. promises to breathe new life into a classic shotgun. Manufactured for the ubiquitous Mossberg 500, 590, and 835 20-gauge platforms, this stock aims to modernize both the look and feel of your trusty shotgun with a pistol grip design, adjustable length of pull, and a recoil-absorbing butt pad. This immediately caught my attention.
My trusty old Mossberg 500 20-gauge has served me well for years, but its factory stock has always felt a bit…basic. I yearned for a more ergonomic and customizable setup, something that would improve my control and reduce felt recoil during extended shooting sessions. The allure of a more modern, tactical feel also played a part in my decision.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust feel of the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. The glass-filled nylon construction felt incredibly solid and durable. The pistol grip was comfortable in my hand, and the adjustable stock mechanism appeared smooth and reliable.
Compared to other aftermarket stocks I’ve considered, like those from Magpul or ATI, the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. stood out because of its simpler design and included shell carrier. I wanted a practical upgrade, not an overly complicated one, and the direct-mount shell carrier was a definite plus. The price point also played a significant role in my decision.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. could live up to its promises of improved ergonomics, recoil reduction, and enhanced weapon control, but also mindful of potential fitment issues or compromises in build quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. to the Test
First Use Experience
I took my Mossberg 500, now sporting the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga., to my local shooting range for its initial trial. The range offers a variety of shooting scenarios, from static targets to clay pigeon shooting, which provided a good testing ground. The weather was mild and sunny, ideal for a range day.
The immediate improvement I noticed was in weapon control. The pistol grip allowed for a much more secure and confident grip, especially during rapid firing. The adjustable stock allowed me to quickly find the perfect length of pull for comfortable shooting. Recoil felt noticeably reduced, making longer shooting sessions more enjoyable.
I did encounter one minor issue. The included shell carrier, while a nice addition, initially felt a bit stiff, making it slightly difficult to quickly access shells. After a few practice drills, however, the shell carrier loosened up and became much more functional.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. I’ve used it during both target practice and a couple of upland bird hunting trips.
The stock has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear or tear. The glass-filled nylon construction seems incredibly durable. The adjustable stock mechanism continues to operate smoothly and reliably.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. in good condition. Compared to my experience with the factory stock, the tactical stock offers a much more comfortable and controllable shooting experience. It has exceeded my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga.
Specifications
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. is injection molded from premium glass-filled nylon. This material provides exceptional strength, rigidity, and durability, ensuring the stock can withstand the rigors of regular use.
It features a 6-position adjustable stock. This allows for length-of-pull (LOP) adjustments from 10.5″ to 14.75″, accommodating a wide range of shooter sizes and shooting styles.
The stock incorporates a pistol grip design. This enhances weapon control and provides a more secure and ergonomic grip.
A recoil-absorbing butt pad is included. This helps to mitigate felt recoil, reducing fatigue and improving shooting comfort.
A direct-mount shot shell carrier is integrated into the stock. The shell carrier allows for quick and easy access to additional ammunition.
It specifically fits 20 GA Mossberg 500, 590, and 835 shotguns. This ensures a proper and secure fit on these popular shotgun platforms.
These specifications contribute significantly to the performance and user experience. The adjustable LOP ensures a comfortable and customized fit for any shooter. The pistol grip and recoil pad enhance control and reduce fatigue, making for a better overall shooting experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. significantly improves the handling and ergonomics of my Mossberg 500. The pistol grip allows for a more natural and secure grip, making it easier to control the shotgun, especially during rapid firing or when wearing gloves.
The adjustable stock is a game-changer. It allows me to quickly and easily adjust the length of pull to fit my body type and shooting stance, resulting in a more comfortable and consistent shooting experience. Recoil absorption is adequate but not exceptional; still better than the original stock.
One minor weakness is the initial stiffness of the shell carrier. However, this issue resolves itself with use. Overall, the stock meets and, in some aspects, exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. is impressive. The glass-filled nylon feels incredibly strong and durable, inspiring confidence in its longevity. The pistol grip is ergonomically designed and comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.
The adjustable stock mechanism operates smoothly and reliably. The stock is generally user-friendly, although the included shell carrier might require a bit of practice to master.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. seems built to last. The materials are robust, and the construction is solid.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is all that’s needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. comes with a direct-mount shot shell carrier. No other accessories are included.
While the stock itself doesn’t offer direct mounting points for accessories like lights or lasers, the Mossberg 500 shotgun platform has a wide range of aftermarket accessories available, many of which can be mounted on the forend or receiver. The stock is compatible with any 20 gauge Mossberg 500, 590, or 835.
Pros and Cons of Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga.
Pros
- Enhanced Weapon Control: The pistol grip design provides a more secure and ergonomic grip, leading to improved weapon control.
- Adjustable Length of Pull: The 6-position adjustable stock allows for a customized fit, accommodating a wide range of shooters and shooting styles.
- Recoil Absorption: The recoil-absorbing butt pad helps to mitigate felt recoil, reducing fatigue and improving shooting comfort.
- Durable Construction: The glass-filled nylon construction ensures exceptional strength, rigidity, and durability.
- Integrated Shell Carrier: The direct-mount shot shell carrier provides quick and easy access to additional ammunition.
Cons
- The included installation instructions are sparse. An experienced gun owner will likely be able to install it without problems, but the instructions could be more comprehensive.
- The shell carrier can be initially stiff. It takes some use to loosen up and function smoothly.
Who Should Buy Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga.?
This stock is perfect for:
- Home defense enthusiasts seeking improved weapon control and ergonomics.
- Hunters looking for a more comfortable and customizable shooting experience.
- Anyone wanting to modernize the look and feel of their Mossberg 500, 590, or 835 20-gauge shotgun.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who prefer the traditional feel of a standard shotgun stock.
- Individuals unwilling to potentially wrestle with a slightly stiff shell carrier.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A long arm ball end Allen wrench is required for installation.
Conclusion on Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga.
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. is a worthwhile upgrade for anyone looking to enhance the ergonomics, control, and overall shooting experience of their Mossberg 500, 590, or 835 20-gauge shotgun. The adjustable stock, pistol grip, and recoil-absorbing butt pad make a noticeable difference in comfort and performance.
At a price of $71.99, the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. represents excellent value for the money. It offers significant improvements over the factory stock without breaking the bank.
I would definitely recommend the Field Series Tactical Stock – Mossberg 20 ga. to anyone looking for a practical and affordable upgrade for their 20-gauge Mossberg shotgun. It’s a simple yet effective way to modernize your shotgun and improve your shooting experience. Give your trusty old 20 gauge a new lease on life.