What Makes Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued Stand Out?
The Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued is an aftermarket barrel designed to enhance the versatility of the already popular Mossberg 500 shotgun. Manufactured by Mossberg, this barrel offers a shorter length and a cylinder bore, making it ideal for home defense and close-quarters situations. Its simplicity and compatibility with existing Mossberg 500 platforms immediately caught my eye.
I was looking for a way to improve the maneuverability of my Mossberg 500 within the tight confines of my home. The original 28-inch barrel made navigating hallways and doorways a challenge. This security barrel promised to solve that problem.
Unboxing the Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued, I was immediately struck by its solid construction. The matte blued finish gave it a clean, professional look. The weight felt balanced, suggesting a well-engineered product.
I considered the Remington 870 Express Tactical and the Benelli M4, but ultimately, the Mossberg 500 offered the best balance of cost and reliability. Plus, swapping barrels is significantly more affordable than purchasing a completely new shotgun. This made the Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued an economical and practical choice.
My initial impression was one of excitement. The barrel appeared to be exactly what I needed to optimize my shotgun for home defense. I couldn’t wait to get it installed and test it out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued was at my local shooting range. I wanted to evaluate its accuracy and handling at various distances. The range provided a controlled environment to safely assess the barrel’s performance.
The weather was slightly damp, but this didn’t seem to affect the barrel’s functionality. The matte blued finish provided a good grip even with slightly wet hands. The shorter barrel length made maneuvering in the shooting bay much easier.
Installation was incredibly simple, requiring only basic tools and taking just a few minutes. The bead sight was easy to acquire, even for quick target acquisition. Recoil was noticeably increased due to the shorter barrel, but manageable.
I initially struggled slightly with the wider shot pattern of the cylinder bore. It required adjusting my aiming point, especially at longer distances. However, with practice, I quickly adapted.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued continues to perform reliably. I’ve used it in several training sessions and practice drills. It has become an integral part of my home defense setup.
The barrel shows no signs of significant wear and tear. The matte blued finish has held up well to repeated handling and cleaning. I periodically inspect the barrel for any signs of damage or corrosion.
Cleaning the barrel is straightforward, using standard shotgun cleaning tools and solvents. I typically clean it after each range session to maintain its performance. A quick wipe-down with an oiled cloth after cleaning helps prevent rust.
Compared to the original 28-inch barrel, the Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued is a significant improvement for close-quarters situations. It offers better maneuverability and quicker target acquisition. However, it does sacrifice some accuracy at longer ranges.
Breaking Down the Features of Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued
Specifications
Caliber: 12 Gauge. This is a standard and widely available shotgun caliber.
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches. This shorter length improves maneuverability in tight spaces.
Bore: Cylinder Bore. This provides a wide shot pattern ideal for close-range engagements.
Finish: Matte Blued. This finish helps to protect against corrosion and reduces glare.
Sight: Bead Sight. This simple sight allows for quick target acquisition.
These specifications translate directly into the barrel’s performance characteristics. The 18.5-inch length makes it easier to handle in confined spaces. The cylinder bore ensures a wide spread, increasing the chances of hitting the target at close range.
Performance & Functionality
The Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued excels at its intended purpose: close-quarters defense. Its shorter length makes it easier to swing and aim quickly. The cylinder bore provides a forgiving shot pattern for fast-moving targets.
The barrel’s strengths lie in its maneuverability and ease of use. Its weakness is the reduced accuracy at longer ranges, exceeding 25 yards. It effectively meets expectations for a security-focused barrel.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued is excellent. The materials used feel robust and durable. The barrel is lightweight, which helps maintain the overall balance of the shotgun.
The barrel is incredibly user-friendly. Installation is simple, and the bead sight is intuitive to use. There is virtually no learning curve required.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued is built to last. The robust construction and matte blued finish contribute to its durability. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and lubrication, will ensure years of reliable service.
Maintaining the barrel is easy. Standard shotgun cleaning procedures are sufficient. This contributes to the long-term value of the product.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued itself doesn’t come with additional accessories. However, it is compatible with various aftermarket sights, shell holders, and tactical lights. Compatibility with Mossberg 500 accessories from brands like Magpul and Mesa Tactical enhance its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued
Pros
- Enhanced Maneuverability: The 18.5-inch barrel significantly improves handling in tight spaces, making it ideal for home defense.
- Quick Target Acquisition: The bead sight is simple and effective for fast aiming.
- Easy Installation: Swapping barrels is a straightforward process, requiring minimal tools and effort.
- Improved Home Defense Capabilities: The cylinder bore creates a wide shot pattern, increasing hit probability at close range.
- Durable Construction: The matte blued finish and robust materials ensure longevity.
Cons
- Reduced Accuracy at Longer Ranges: The cylinder bore is not ideal for targets beyond 25 yards.
- Increased Recoil: The shorter barrel length results in a noticeable increase in felt recoil.
Who Should Buy Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued?
The Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued is perfect for homeowners, apartment dwellers, and anyone prioritizing home defense. Those seeking a more maneuverable and close-quarters-oriented shotgun will greatly benefit. It’s also a great option for those who want to enhance an existing Mossberg 500 without purchasing a new firearm.
Those prioritizing long-range accuracy or hunting in open areas should skip this product. A longer barrel with a tighter choke would be more suitable for those applications. Also, those very sensitive to recoil may want to consider other options or practice extensively to master recoil control.
A must-have accessory for this barrel is a quality tactical light. This will significantly improve target identification in low-light conditions. Also, a sling can improve control and retention of the shotgun.
Conclusion on Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued
The Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued is a practical and effective upgrade for any Mossberg 500 owner seeking enhanced home defense capabilities. Its improved maneuverability and quick target acquisition make it a valuable asset in close-quarters situations.
The price of $145.99 is well justified, considering the improved functionality and durability it offers. It’s a cost-effective way to transform your Mossberg 500 into a specialized security tool.
I would absolutely recommend the Mossberg 500 12 Gauge Security Barrel 18.5in Blued to anyone looking to optimize their shotgun for home defense. Upgrade your Mossberg 500 today and experience the confidence that comes with enhanced maneuverability and close-quarters effectiveness.