The Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT Made a Bold First Impression
The Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT represents an opportunity to expand the versatility of one of the most ubiquitous shotguns ever made: the Remington 870. It’s a drop-in replacement barrel designed to convert a general-purpose or home-defense 870 into a capable slug gun. The promise of enhanced accuracy and extended range piqued my interest immediately.
I needed to transform my old 870, primarily used for home defense, into a viable deer hunting option without breaking the bank. After researching alternatives like dedicated slug guns and custom barrel work, the Mossberg barrel seemed like the most practical and cost-effective solution. Other options I considered included a fully rifled cantilever barrel, which offers potentially better accuracy but at a significantly higher price, and having a gunsmith thread the existing barrel for chokes, which still wouldn’t give me the rifle sights I desired for precise slug placement.
The barrel arrived in a simple, functional package. My first impression was that the matte blue finish was surprisingly well-executed, closely mimicking the original Remington finish. The weight felt comparable to the original barrel, and the overall build quality appeared solid; it seemed like a well-made component. I was excited to install it and see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local shooting range, under relatively ideal conditions: clear skies and moderate temperatures. I wanted to zero the rifle sights and get a feel for the barrel’s accuracy potential. The installation was simple and straightforward, taking just a few minutes with no need for gunsmithing or specialized tools. The initial shots revealed a noticeable improvement in accuracy compared to the standard barrel with just a bead sight, even at 50 yards.
The rifle sights were easy to adjust and allowed for precise aiming. However, the recoil with slugs was, as expected, significant. After about 20 rounds, my shoulder was feeling it!
<h3>Extended Use & Reliability</h3>After several months of use, primarily during deer season and occasional range trips, the Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT has proven to be remarkably reliable. The matte blue finish has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear despite being exposed to wet and muddy hunting conditions. Cleaning is no more difficult than cleaning the original barrel; standard shotgun cleaning supplies are sufficient. It has outperformed my expectations in terms of accuracy and has successfully transformed my 870 into a capable hunting tool.
Breaking Down the Features of **Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT**
Specifications
Caliber: 12 Gauge, designed for 2 3/4″ and 3″ shells. The 12-gauge chambering offers versatility for a wide range of slug and buckshot loads.
Barrel Length: 24 inches. This length provides a good balance between maneuverability and accuracy.
Choke: Cylinder Bore. The cylinder bore is ideal for slugs, as it provides no constriction, maximizing accuracy with these projectiles.
Sights: Adjustable Rifle Sights. The rifle sights allow for precise aiming, crucial for accurate slug placement at longer ranges.
Finish: Matte Blue. The matte blue finish reduces glare and provides corrosion resistance.
Performance & Functionality
The Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT performs its intended function – converting a standard 870 into a slug gun – exceptionally well. Accuracy is significantly improved over a standard barrel, especially at distances beyond 50 yards. The adjustable rifle sights are a major contributor to this improved accuracy. Recoil, as with any 12-gauge slug load, is substantial, but manageable. A good recoil pad is highly recommended.
<h3>Design & Ergonomics</h3>The design is straightforward and functional. The matte blue finish is well-applied and blends seamlessly with most Remington 870 receivers. The barrel is well-balanced, adding minimal weight to the front of the shotgun. The rifle sights are robust and easy to adjust, even with gloved hands.
<h3>Durability & Maintenance</h3>The barrel is constructed from durable steel and is designed to withstand the rigors of hunting and regular use. The matte blue finish provides adequate corrosion resistance. Maintenance is simple, requiring only standard shotgun cleaning practices.
<h3>Accessories and Customization Options</h3>The Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT comes as a standalone barrel with the integrated rifle sights. No additional accessories are included. Customization options are limited to aftermarket recoil pads and cheek risers to optimize sight alignment. While it is a Mossberg barrel, it is specifically designed as a drop-in replacement for the Remington 870, meaning that 870-compatible accessories can still be used.
Pros and Cons of **Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT**
Pros
- Significantly improves accuracy with slugs compared to a standard barrel.
- Adjustable rifle sights allow for precise zeroing and aiming.
- Easy drop-in installation – no gunsmithing required.
- Cost-effective way to convert a Remington 870 into a slug gun.
- Durable construction and finish.
Cons
- Recoil with slugs is significant.
- Limited customization options beyond recoil pads and cheek risers.
Who Should Buy **Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT**?
- Perfect for: Hunters looking to use their Remington 870 for deer or other big game where slugs are required. It is also good for individuals seeking a cost-effective and simple way to increase the versatility of their existing 870 for hunting applications.
- Who should skip this product? Shooters primarily interested in bird hunting or those who prefer a fully rifled cantilever barrel for maximum slug accuracy at extended ranges (though at a higher cost).
- Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality recoil pad is essential for comfortable shooting with slugs. A cheek riser may also be beneficial to ensure proper eye alignment with the rifle sights.
Conclusion on **Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT**
The Mossberg 870XBL 12g 24″ RS CB MAT is a well-made, cost-effective solution for transforming a Remington 870 into a capable slug gun. The improved accuracy and adjustable rifle sights make it a significant upgrade over a standard barrel for deer hunting or other applications where precise slug placement is critical. At a price of $158.49, it offers excellent value for the money.
I would absolutely recommend this barrel to anyone looking to expand the functionality of their Remington 870 without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to get more out of your 870 for deer season, this is a great place to start. Go get yours and get out there!
