Let’s Dive into Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights
The Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights offers a versatile solution for shotgun owners looking to expand the capabilities of their Mossberg 500 platform. This 24-inch, 12-gauge barrel is specifically designed for slug shooting, featuring adjustable rifle sights for improved accuracy and a cylinder bore for optimal slug performance. Its affordability, ease of installation, and focus on close-range accuracy make it a compelling option for hunters and recreational shooters alike.
My journey to this barrel began with a growing interest in hog hunting in dense brush. I needed a reliable and maneuverable setup that could deliver accurate shots at relatively close range. I considered a fully rifled barrel with a cantilever scope mount but decided against it due to the increased cost and the fact that I wanted to maintain the option of using my Mossberg 500 for other purposes as well.
The unboxing experience was straightforward, with the barrel arriving well-protected. The blued finish looked clean and professional, and the adjustable rifle sights appeared robust and easy to manipulate. My initial assessment was that the build quality seemed solid for the price.
I also considered the Remington 870 20-inch rifled slug barrel with iron sights and the Carlson’s 18.5″ Breacher barrel. The Remington option was significantly more expensive, while the Carlson’s barrel was too short for my intended hunting application. The Mossberg 90055 struck a balance between cost, barrel length, and intended use.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to try it out, but also slightly concerned about the durability of the blued finish in harsh weather conditions, a common issue I’ve experienced with blued firearms in the past.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights was at my local shooting range, specifically designed for sighting in rifles and shotguns. I wanted to establish a baseline for accuracy and get a feel for the adjustable sights. The weather was slightly damp, with a light drizzle falling intermittently.
The barrel performed admirably, delivering consistent groupings at 50 yards after some minor sight adjustments. The adjustable sights were easy to use, even with wet hands, and the improved sight picture was immediately noticeable compared to a standard bead sight. There were no malfunctions or issues with installation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including two hog hunts and numerous range sessions, the Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights has proven to be a reliable and accurate addition to my Mossberg 500. The blued finish, while not as durable as a Cerakote or Parkerized finish, has held up reasonably well with proper cleaning and oiling after each use. I have noticed some minor wear on the high-friction areas, but nothing that affects performance.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a standard shotgun cleaning kit and some solvent and oil. Compared to my previous experience with a bead-sighted shotgun, this barrel offers significantly improved accuracy and confidence when shooting slugs. It definitely outperforms in controlled hunting environments.
Breaking Down the Features of Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights
Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge. This is a standard shotgun caliber, offering a wide range of slug options for various hunting and target shooting applications.
- Length: 24 inches. This barrel length provides a good balance between maneuverability in tight spaces and optimal velocity for slugs.
- Model: 500. Designed specifically as a drop-in replacement barrel for the popular Mossberg 500 shotgun.
- Sights: Adjustable Rifle Sights. These sights offer a significant improvement in accuracy over traditional bead sights, allowing for precise aiming at longer ranges.
- Bore Type: Cylinder Bore. This bore type is ideal for shooting slugs, as it does not impart any spin on the projectile.
- Finish: Blued. A traditional firearm finish that provides some corrosion resistance, but requires regular maintenance to prevent rust.
- Type: Slug. Specifically designed and optimized for firing shotgun slugs.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the accuracy, range, and overall effectiveness of the Mossberg 500 in a slug-shooting configuration. The adjustable sights, in particular, allow the shooter to dial in their preferred load for optimal accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights performs its intended job exceptionally well. Accuracy is significantly improved compared to a standard barrel, allowing for consistent hits on targets out to 75 yards. Reliability has been flawless, with no issues experienced during testing or hunting.
Its strengths lie in its affordability, ease of installation, and improved accuracy. A potential weakness is the blued finish, which may require more frequent maintenance in harsh environments. Overall, it exceeds expectations for a budget-friendly slug barrel.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with the barrel feeling well-made and durable. The blued finish is aesthetically pleasing, although not as rugged as some other options. The adjustable rifle sights are well-designed and easy to use, even with gloves.
Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing knowledge. The barrel attaches easily to the Mossberg 500 receiver, and the sights are simple to adjust for windage and elevation. There is no steep learning curve associated with its use.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, the Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights should last for many years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and oiling after each use are essential to prevent rust and corrosion, especially in wet or humid environments. Minor scratches and wear marks are to be expected over time, but they should not affect the barrel’s performance.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a standard shotgun cleaning kit and some solvent and oil. The barrel is also relatively easy to repair, with replacement parts readily available if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The barrel comes with the adjustable rifle sights already installed. No other accessories are included. Customization options are somewhat limited, but it can be paired with different types of shotgun slugs to achieve optimal accuracy and performance.
It is compatible with any Mossberg 500 receiver, allowing for a wide range of stock and forend options. Aftermarket sling attachments can also be added to the barrel or receiver for improved carrying comfort.
Pros and Cons of Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights
Pros
- Significantly improved accuracy compared to bead sights.
- Easy to install and adjust.
- Affordable upgrade for Mossberg 500 owners.
- Cylinder bore optimized for slug performance.
- Durable construction for reliable performance.
Cons
- Blued finish requires regular maintenance to prevent rust.
- Not designed for long-range accuracy.
Who Should Buy Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights?
The Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights is perfect for:
- Hunters who need to shoot slugs accurately at close to medium range (out to 75 yards).
- Hog hunters operating in dense brush where maneuverability is important.
- Recreational shooters who want to expand the capabilities of their Mossberg 500.
Those who should skip this product:
- Shooters who require long-range accuracy (beyond 75 yards).
- Individuals who prioritize a more durable, weather-resistant finish like Cerakote or Parkerizing.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- High-quality shotgun slugs specifically designed for smooth-bore barrels.
- Sling for easier carrying in the field.
Conclusion on Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights
The Mossberg 90055 500 Barrel 12 Gauge 24″ Adjustable Rifle Sights is an excellent value for the money. It provides a significant upgrade in accuracy and versatility for Mossberg 500 owners at an affordable price. While the blued finish requires regular maintenance, the barrel’s performance and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment.
The price is definitely justified, considering the improved accuracy and expanded capabilities it provides. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and accurate slug barrel for their Mossberg 500. So, upgrade your Mossberg 500 today and experience the difference!