What Makes Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front Stand Out?
The Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front is a workhorse shotgun designed for serious performance. Known for its versatility and ruggedness, the Mossberg 835 series has always been a top contender for hunters and sport shooters alike. This particular model, with its 28-inch barrel and durable parkerized finish, promises a blend of power and reliability at a surprisingly accessible price of $277.99.
I needed a dependable shotgun for waterfowl hunting that wouldn’t break the bank. I was looking for something that could handle the punishing conditions of the marsh and still deliver consistent performance. The reputation of Mossberg shotguns for being both affordable and reliable drew me to the 835.
Upon unboxing, the Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front immediately impressed me with its solid feel. The parkerized finish gives it a no-nonsense, ready-for-anything aesthetic. It felt substantial without being overly heavy, suggesting a good balance for comfortable shouldering and swing.
I was considering the Remington 870 Express and the Benelli Nova, both popular shotguns in the same category. However, the Mossberg 835 offered a slightly longer barrel than the 870 at this price point and a more traditional feel compared to the Nova’s polymer-heavy construction. Ultimately, the Mossberg’s combination of price, barrel length, and reputation for reliability won me over.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It felt like a solid, well-built tool. I was excited to get it out in the field and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front was a waterfowl hunt in the flooded timber of Arkansas. The conditions were far from ideal: cold, drizzly, and muddy underfoot. I wanted to see how the shotgun performed under real-world hunting stress.
The Mossberg 835 cycled shells flawlessly, even with the cheaper loads I was using for practice. The 28-inch barrel provided a good balance between maneuverability in the tight timber and sufficient swing for longer shots across the flooded fields. I found the shotgun easy to operate, and the controls were intuitive even with gloved hands.
After firing about 50 rounds, the only issue I noticed was a slight stiffness in the action. This was easily remedied with a quick field cleaning and lubrication. Overall, I was impressed with its initial performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front has proven to be a reliable and durable shotgun. It has accompanied me on numerous hunting trips, from dove fields to turkey woods, and has performed admirably in each setting. There are no signs of significant wear and tear despite the heavy use.
The parkerized finish has held up well against scratches and corrosion, even after exposure to saltwater during a coastal fishing trip. Cleaning the Mossberg 835 is straightforward, and the simple design makes it easy to disassemble and reassemble. Regular cleaning and lubrication have kept the action smooth and reliable.
Compared to my previous shotgun, a vintage Remington Wingmaster, the Mossberg 835 offers a more modern and versatile platform. While the Wingmaster had a certain classic charm, the Mossberg’s ability to handle 3.5-inch shells and its more robust construction make it a clear winner in terms of performance and reliability. The Mossberg has definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front
Specifications
The Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front is a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun known for its overbored barrel. It has a 28-inch barrel length, providing a good compromise between maneuverability and range. It also features a parkerized finish for enhanced corrosion resistance.
- Caliber: 12 Gauge, offering versatility for various hunting and sport shooting applications. The 12-gauge is a popular choice due to its wide range of available loads.
- Barrel Length: 28 inches, a common length for shotguns, balancing maneuverability and range. The 28-inch barrel is suitable for both upland bird hunting and waterfowl hunting.
- Finish: Parkerized, which provides excellent corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface. The parkerized finish is ideal for harsh outdoor conditions.
- Action: Pump-action, a reliable and simple design known for its durability. The pump-action design allows the user to manually cycle the action, ensuring reliable operation.
- Capacity: 5+1, offering a good balance for hunting regulations and firepower. This capacity is common for hunting shotguns and can be limited further by magazine plugs if required by law.
- Chamber: 3.5-inch, allowing it to handle a wide range of shell sizes, including magnum loads. The ability to chamber 3.5-inch shells provides greater versatility and power.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the shotgun’s performance, durability, and versatility. The 12-gauge caliber is powerful and versatile, while the 28-inch barrel provides a good balance for various hunting scenarios. The parkerized finish ensures long-lasting protection against the elements, and the pump-action design offers reliable operation in demanding conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front excels at delivering consistent and reliable performance in the field. Its pump-action design ensures smooth cycling of shells, and the overbored barrel helps improve pattern density and reduce recoil. The overbored barrel is a standout feature.
The shotgun’s strengths lie in its ruggedness, reliability, and versatility. However, the pump-action design requires more manual effort than semi-automatic shotguns, and the recoil can be significant, especially with magnum loads. Overall, the Mossberg 835 meets and exceeds expectations for a workhorse shotgun in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front features a simple, functional design with a focus on durability and ease of use. The materials used are rugged and well-suited for outdoor conditions, and the overall build quality is solid. The weight is manageable, and the shotgun feels comfortable in hand.
The controls are easy to access and operate, even with gloved hands. The pump action is smooth and reliable. There is a slight learning curve for those unfamiliar with pump-action shotguns, but the operation is generally intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front is built to last, with its durable parkerized finish and robust pump-action design. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The parkerized finish is key to its durability.
The shotgun is easy to disassemble and clean, and replacement parts are readily available. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining smooth operation and preventing corrosion. With minimal effort, the Mossberg 835 can be kept in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front comes with a standard choke tube set and a basic owner’s manual. There are numerous customization options available, including aftermarket chokes, sights, slings, and recoil pads. Aftermarket chokes can significantly improve performance.
The Mossberg 835 is compatible with a wide range of accessories from other brands, making it easy to personalize and adapt to specific needs. Popular accessories include extended choke tubes for improved pattern density, fiber optic sights for enhanced visibility, and recoil pads for reduced recoil.
Pros and Cons of Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front
Pros
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for the money.
- Reliable Pump Action: Simple, durable, and dependable.
- Versatile 12 Gauge: Suitable for various hunting and sport shooting applications.
- Durable Parkerized Finish: Provides excellent corrosion resistance.
- 3.5-inch Chamber: Handles a wide range of shell sizes.
Cons
- Recoil can be significant, especially with magnum loads.
- Pump-action requires more manual effort than semi-automatic designs.
Who Should Buy Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front?
The Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front is perfect for hunters, especially waterfowl and turkey hunters, who need a reliable and affordable shotgun that can handle a variety of loads and conditions. It’s also a good choice for sport shooters who appreciate the simplicity and durability of a pump-action design. This shotgun is an excellent choice for the budget-conscious.
This product may not be ideal for those who prioritize recoil reduction or require the speed of a semi-automatic action for competitive shooting. Those sensitive to recoil might want to consider a semi-automatic.
Must-have accessories include a good quality choke tube set, a comfortable sling, and a recoil pad if you plan to shoot heavy magnum loads. A quality choke set is a must.
Conclusion on Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front
The Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front is a fantastic shotgun that offers exceptional value for the price. Its reliability, durability, and versatility make it a top contender in the pump-action category. It’s a true workhorse that’s ready to tackle any challenge.
The price of $277.99 is more than justified considering the shotgun’s performance and features. It’s an investment in a reliable tool.
I would absolutely recommend the Mossberg 90831 835 12 Gauge 28 Parkerized Front to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable shotgun. Go out there and experience the power and reliability of the Mossberg 835 for yourself!