Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P Review

First Thoughts on the Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P

For over a decade, I’ve fine-tuned my shotgun skills, chasing waterfowl from flooded timber to open fields. My journey led me to constantly tweak my setup for optimal performance, and the Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P promised an edge that piqued my interest. This choke tube claims to blend precision with ported design for tighter patterns, which every turkey and waterfowl hunter dreams of.

I’ve long been searching for an affordable choke tube that wouldn’t compromise on performance. The promise of improved patterns with both turkey and waterfowl loads was particularly attractive. Upon unboxing, the XFACTOR immediately felt solid and well-made.

Compared to my existing flush-mounted chokes and a previous aftermarket extended choke from a different brand, the Mossberg XFACTOR seemed to offer a more refined design. I chose it over a similar Carlson’s choke primarily due to its porting and the brand reputation of Mossberg. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic, eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P was during the spring turkey season on a friend’s heavily wooded property. I patterned the choke with several lead turkey loads at 30 and 40 yards to assess its effectiveness. The conditions were damp with a light drizzle, typical for early spring.

The XFACTOR proved easy to install and remove. Initial patterns were surprisingly tight, noticeably denser than those achieved with my factory full choke. There were no hiccups in feeding or ejection, even with heavy magnum loads.

Extended Use & Reliability

After using the Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P throughout a complete turkey and waterfowl season, I’ve gained significant insight into its long-term performance. The choke tube has held up remarkably well, showing only minimal signs of wear. Routine cleaning after each hunt has been sufficient to keep it in excellent condition.

The durable black finish has resisted scratches and corrosion. Compared to my previous choke, the XFACTOR provides noticeably tighter and more consistent patterns at extended ranges. It has certainly exceeded my initial expectations and proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my shotgun.

Breaking Down the Features of Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P

Specifications

The Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P is an extended choke tube designed for 12-gauge Mossberg 500, 535, and 930 series shotguns. It’s classified as an XX-Full Turkey choke, intended exclusively for use with lead shot. The tube features two rows of specially angled ports designed to reduce recoil and improve pattern density.

These specifications are crucial for achieving tight, consistent patterns, particularly at longer ranges, making it ideal for turkey hunting. The extended design also allows for easier removal and installation. The “lead only” designation is extremely important and non-negotiable; using steel shot would damage the choke.

Performance & Functionality

The Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P excels at delivering extremely tight patterns, vital for ethical and effective turkey hunting. Its performance is enhanced by the ported design, which aids in recoil reduction, although the effect is somewhat subtle. The primary strength lies in its ability to consistently produce dense patterns out to 40 yards.

The choke tube’s functionality is limited to lead shot only, which might be seen as a weakness for those who primarily use steel shot for waterfowl. However, for dedicated turkey hunters using lead loads, it performs flawlessly. It meets and even exceeds expectations for pattern density.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P boasts a robust construction and a sleek black finish. The extended design makes it easy to grip and change in the field, even with gloved hands. Its weight is negligible and doesn’t noticeably alter the shotgun’s balance.

The design is functional and straightforward. There’s no learning curve involved, as it installs just like any other Accu-Choke tube.

Durability & Maintenance

The Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P is constructed from high-quality steel. This ensures its longevity and resistance to wear from repeated use and cleaning. Maintenance is simple: a quick scrub with a choke tube brush and solvent after each use keeps it in top condition.

With proper care, this choke tube should last for many seasons. There are no proprietary parts that require special tools for repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it’s a standalone product. However, it’s compatible with any standard Accu-Choke wrench for easy installation and removal. While there are no specific customization options for the choke itself, its performance can be optimized by experimenting with different lead turkey loads.

It’s important to note that this choke is not compatible with steel shot or other non-lead alternatives. Using incorrect ammunition can damage the choke and potentially the firearm.

Pros and Cons of Mossberg XFACTOR TUBE 500/535 XXF-P