The Mossberg 90123 500 12 Gauge 28″ Blued Bead Made a Bold First Impression
The Mossberg 90123 500 12 Gauge 28″ Blued Bead is a quintessential shotgun, a workhorse known for its reliability and versatility. From the seasoned hunter to the new clay shooter, the Mossberg 500 platform enjoys immense popularity. The allure of the Mossberg 500 lies in its simplicity, affordability, and the sheer number of aftermarket accessories available.
For years, I’ve trusted various shotguns for hunting and home defense. I wanted a dependable 12-gauge that wouldn’t break the bank, something I could customize over time. This model seemed to be the perfect blank canvas.
Unboxing the Mossberg 90123, the first thing I noticed was its utilitarian design. The matte blued finish gives it a no-nonsense appearance. The weight felt balanced, and the action was surprisingly smooth right out of the box.
I considered a Remington 870 Express and a Benelli Nova before settling on the Mossberg. The 870 felt a bit rougher, and the Benelli, while impressive, was overkill for my needs. The Mossberg 500 hit the sweet spot of price and performance.
My initial reaction was positive; I felt like I got a solid, dependable shotgun for a very reasonable price. I couldn’t wait to get it to the range and see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mossberg 90123 500 12 Gauge 28″ Blued Bead to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Mossberg 90123 was at a local shooting range. I wanted to pattern it with different loads and get a feel for its handling. The weather was typical for late spring: a bit windy, but otherwise clear.
The Mossberg cycled shells reliably, even with lighter target loads. The recoil was manageable, thanks in part to the 28-inch barrel. I was impressed by how quickly I got used to the action and sight picture.
The only minor issue I encountered was with a slightly stiff action release button. It didn’t affect performance, but it was something I noted.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mossberg 90123 continues to impress. It’s been through several range sessions, a dove hunting trip, and even some informal clay shooting. The finish has held up remarkably well, with only minor scuffs from handling.
Cleaning the Mossberg is straightforward. Disassembly is simple, and the parts are easily accessible. A quick wipe-down and a light coat of oil are all it takes to keep it running smoothly.
Compared to my previous experience with a cheaper pump-action shotgun, the Mossberg is in a different league. It’s smoother, more reliable, and simply feels better made. It has certainly exceeded expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Mossberg 90123 500 12 Gauge 28″ Blued Bead
Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge. This offers the versatility for anything from small game hunting to home defense.
- Barrel Length: 28 inches. The long barrel provides a good sight radius and helps reduce recoil.
- Choke: Accu-Set style. This allows for swapping chokes for different shooting scenarios.
- Sights: Bead sight. A simple, effective sight for quick target acquisition.
- Finish: Matte Blued. The matte finish reduces glare and provides decent corrosion resistance.
These specifications are important because they define the shotgun’s capabilities. The 12-gauge caliber ensures ample power, while the 28-inch barrel offers a good balance between maneuverability and accuracy. The Accu-Set choke adds versatility, and the bead sight keeps things simple and reliable.
Performance & Functionality
The Mossberg 90123 performs admirably in a variety of roles. Its reliability is its strongest asset. It cycles shells consistently, even with different loads.
The shotgun’s accuracy is decent for a bead-sighted firearm. At typical shotgun ranges (25-40 yards), I was able to consistently hit my targets. The pump action is smooth and relatively easy to operate, even under pressure.
One weakness is the lack of included choke tubes; only one is provided. A better selection of chokes would enhance its versatility. Overall, it meets expectations as a solid, dependable shotgun.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mossberg 90123 features a classic shotgun design. The blued steel and wood stock provide a traditional look and feel. The shotgun’s weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to carry and shoot for extended periods.
There is a slight learning curve for new shotgun users. However, the Mossberg‘s simple design makes it easy to master the basics. The safety is easily accessible and intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mossberg 90123 is built to last. The steel receiver and barrel are robust and resistant to wear. Proper care and maintenance should ensure that this shotgun lasts for decades.
Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s required. The shotgun can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mossberg 90123 comes with a single Accu-Set choke tube. The Mossberg 500 platform is famous for its wide range of aftermarket accessories. Options include different stocks, forends, sights, and even barrels.
The Mossberg 500 is compatible with a vast array of accessories from various manufacturers. This makes it easy to customize the shotgun to suit specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Mossberg 90123 500 12 Gauge 28″ Blued Bead
Pros
- Reliable and durable. A proven design that can withstand years of use.
- Affordable. Excellent value for the money.
- Versatile. Suitable for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense.
- Easy to maintain. Simple design makes cleaning and maintenance straightforward.
- Vast aftermarket support. Plenty of accessories and customization options available.
Cons
- Basic sights. The bead sight may not be ideal for all users.
- Limited included accessories. Only one choke tube is included.
Who Should Buy Mossberg 90123 500 12 Gauge 28″ Blued Bead?
The Mossberg 90123 is perfect for entry-level hunters, recreational shooters, and homeowners looking for a reliable defense weapon. It’s also a great option for those who enjoy customizing their firearms.
This product might not be the best choice for experienced competitive shooters. They likely prefer higher-end shotguns with more advanced features and customization.
A must-have accessory is a choke tube set. This will allow users to tailor the shotgun’s pattern to different shooting scenarios.
Conclusion on Mossberg 90123 500 12 Gauge 28″ Blued Bead
The Mossberg 90123 500 12 Gauge 28″ Blued Bead is a solid, dependable shotgun. It offers excellent value for the money. Its reliability, versatility, and vast aftermarket support make it a great choice for a wide range of users.
The price is absolutely justified. You’re getting a quality firearm that will last for years. I highly recommend it.
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense shotgun that you can rely on, the Mossberg 90123 is an excellent choice. Get yours today and experience the legend for yourself!