First Thoughts on the Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral
The Mossberg 500 is a workhorse. For decades, it has been the shotgun of choice for millions of Americans, from hunters pursuing game to law enforcement officers protecting our streets. As a seasoned outdoorsman and tactical gear specialist, I’ve put countless shotguns through their paces, and the Mossberg 500 consistently proves its reliability. I needed a rifled barrel for my Mossberg 500 to extend its effective range for deer hunting in areas where rifles are restricted.
After years of using smoothbore barrels with slugs and buckshot, the Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral promised increased accuracy and tighter groupings at longer distances. Opening the box, I was immediately impressed with the barrel’s solid construction. The parkerized finish provides a durable, non-reflective surface. The integrated scope base was a welcome feature, promising a stable platform for mounting optics.
Compared to aftermarket rifled barrels from other manufacturers, the Mossberg OEM barrel offered a compelling balance of quality and price. Some competitors boasted fancier coatings or more aggressive rifling, but for my needs, the Mossberg barrel seemed like the perfect fit. It was also more affordable than some of the higher-end options. I picked it over others, because Mossberg has known reliability. My initial excitement was tempered by the user feedback mentioning a potentially thin finish.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral came during deer season. I zeroed it in at a local range, using a quality 2-7x scope and a variety of sabot slugs. The 24-inch barrel provided a good balance of maneuverability in the woods and sufficient length for optimal slug velocity. The cantilever scope mount provided a stable platform for my optic.
Even in slightly damp conditions, the Parkerized Finish provided a secure grip. The fully rifled bore demonstrably improved accuracy compared to my experience with smoothbore barrels. After a box of shells, I was consistently hitting a 6-inch target at 100 yards, which was a significant improvement. I noticed no immediate issues after my first range trip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use and cleaning, the Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral held up well. The exterior Parkerized Finish showed minimal signs of wear from handling and transport. Cleaning was straightforward, and the rifling remained crisp and well-defined after repeated use. I used a bore snake after each range trip and followed up with a proper cleaning every few outings.
Although one user reported issues with the ejector bevel, I experienced no such problems with my barrel. It consistently ejected spent shells without issue. It outperformed my expectations, especially considering the barrel’s relatively affordable price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral
Specifications
The Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral is designed as an accessory barrel for Mossberg 500 series shotguns. It is chambered in 12 gauge and features a 24-inch barrel length. The barrel has a fully rifled bore for improved slug accuracy, and a matte blue/parkerized finish for durability and reduced glare.
The integral cantilever scope mount allows for easy and secure attachment of optics. The “OEM” designation signifies that it is an original equipment Mossberg part. This is especially helpful for ensuring compatibility and function.
Performance & Functionality
The Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral performed admirably during testing. Accuracy was significantly improved compared to smoothbore barrels. I found that specific sabot slugs provided the best results, producing tight groupings at 100 yards. The integral scope mount ensured stable optics.
The barrel’s primary weakness appears to be the thinness of the parkerized finish as noted by other users. However, with careful cleaning and maintenance, I have avoided any major issues. I recommend using CLP sparingly. It definitely meets my expectations as a reliable and accurate rifled barrel.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral is well-built. The parkerized finish provides a durable, non-reflective surface, which is ideal for hunting. The 24-inch length strikes a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. The barrel is easy to install and remove on a Mossberg 500 shotgun.
While the design is functional, some users may find the matte blue finish less aesthetically appealing than other options. However, the primary concern is performance, and in this regard, the barrel excels. There is no learning curve for installation.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral should provide years of reliable service. The parkerized finish protects against corrosion and wear. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain optimal performance and prevent rust. The ease of cleaning enhances overall durability.
The thinness of the finish does necessitate extra caution. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning methods.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral comes with an integral cantilever scope mount for attaching optics. There are no other included accessories. The cantilever scope base is compatible with most Weaver-style scope rings. The barrel can also be used with aftermarket chokes designed for rifled barrels.
The Mossberg 500 platform offers a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including different stocks, forends, and sights. This barrel is meant to be used with Sabot Slugs.
Pros and Cons of Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral
Pros
- Improved Accuracy: The fully rifled bore significantly enhances slug accuracy at longer ranges compared to smoothbore barrels.
- Integral Scope Mount: The cantilever scope mount provides a stable platform for mounting optics, ensuring consistent zero.
- Durable Finish: The parkerized finish offers good protection against corrosion and wear, ideal for harsh hunting conditions.
- Easy Installation: The barrel is designed as a direct replacement for standard Mossberg 500 barrels, making installation simple.
- Affordable Price: It offers a great balance between performance and cost, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
Cons
- Thin Finish: As mentioned by some users, the parkerized finish can be somewhat thin and prone to scratching if not properly cared for.
- No Sling Swivel: Unlike the product photo, the barrel does not include a sling swivel.
Who Should Buy Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral?
The Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral is perfect for hunters seeking to extend the effective range of their Mossberg 500 shotgun for deer hunting in areas with shotgun-only restrictions. It is also suitable for recreational shooters looking for improved accuracy with slugs. It is great for those who want to use a red dot to increase the speed of target acquisition.
This product may not be the best choice for shooters who prioritize aesthetics over function or those seeking a high-end, custom barrel with advanced features. Those who are very rough with their equipment may also want to consider a barrel with a more robust finish.
A must-have accessory for this barrel is a quality optic, such as a 2-7x or 3-9x scope, specifically designed for shotguns. Proper cleaning supplies, including a bore snake and gun oil, are also essential for maintaining the barrel’s condition.
Conclusion on Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral
The Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral offers a significant upgrade in accuracy and performance for Mossberg 500 shotgun owners. While the finish may be somewhat delicate, the barrel’s overall construction, integral scope mount, and improved accuracy make it a worthwhile investment. The barrel transforms the Mossberg 500 into a capable and accurate slug gun for deer hunting and other applications.
At a price of $204.99, the Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral is a justified value. It provides a noticeable improvement in performance compared to standard smoothbore barrels at a reasonable cost.
I would definitely recommend this barrel to anyone looking to enhance the accuracy and versatility of their Mossberg 500 shotgun. If you’re looking to extend your effective range and improve your shot placement, the Mossberg Fully Rifled Barrel w/Parkerized Finish & Integral is an excellent choice. Add it to your cart today and experience the difference!