The NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88 Made a Bold First Impression
The NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88 promises an ergonomic upgrade to the venerable Mossberg 500, 590, and Maverick 88 shotguns. At a price point hovering around $12.49, it’s an incredibly accessible modification. The promise of improved handling and control immediately piqued my interest.
I was seeking a more compact and maneuverable setup for my trusty Maverick 88 for home defense purposes. The standard stock, while functional, felt cumbersome in tight spaces. I needed something that allowed quicker target acquisition and easier manipulation.
Upon unboxing, the NCStar adapter is surprisingly lightweight. The black polymer feels relatively sturdy, though the finish is basic and utilitarian. The grip itself has a simple texture.
Compared to a fully featured stock from Magpul or Mesa Tactical, the NCStar adapter is a much simpler and more budget-friendly solution. I chose it over these more expensive options because I wanted to test the waters with a pistol grip configuration without making a significant financial investment. I initially felt cautiously optimistic. The low price tempered my expectations, but I was eager to see how it would perform.
Real-World Testing: Putting NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88 at my local shooting range. The weather was dry and mild. I brought along a variety of ammunition, from light target loads to heavier buckshot rounds.
The first few shots were… jarring. The recoil with a pistol grip is significantly different from a traditional stock. The lack of a shoulder weld transfers more force directly to the wrist.
The NCStar adapter itself held up fine. It didn’t break or show any signs of stress during the initial testing. It took some getting used to, but I gradually began to find a comfortable shooting stance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a couple of months, the NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88 has proven surprisingly resilient. There are no visible cracks or signs of structural weakness despite consistent use. The finish has held up well, showing only minor scuffs.
Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed. It’s a marked contrast from the maintenance required on some of my more intricate firearms.
Compared to my previous experiences with traditional stocks, the pistol grip configuration definitely allows for faster target acquisition in close quarters. However, the increased recoil is a significant tradeoff. It’s a change that requires mindful practice and adjustment.
Breaking Down the Features of NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88
Specifications
- Material: Black Polymer. This keeps the weight down and the cost low.
- Compatibility: Mossberg 500, 590, and Maverick 88 shotguns. This provides broad compatibility for budget-conscious shotgun owners.
- Type: Pistol Grip Stock Adapter. Converts a standard stock to a pistol grip configuration.
- Price: Around $12.49. This makes it one of the most affordable ways to modify your shotgun’s ergonomics.
- Note: Some users report needing an additional backing plate to fully secure the grip. The absence of this plate can lead to instability.
These specifications highlight the NCStar adapter’s focus on affordability and accessibility. The polymer construction keeps costs down, but may sacrifice long-term durability compared to more expensive options. The broad compatibility makes it an attractive option for owners of common, budget-friendly shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88 does what it’s designed to do: allow you to mount a pistol grip onto your shotgun. However, the performance is basic and utilitarian. Accuracy at longer ranges can be challenging due to the altered shooting stance and increased felt recoil.
The main strength is its low cost and ease of installation. The biggest weakness is the increased recoil and the potential need for an additional backing plate, as noted in user feedback. It meets the basic expectation of converting to a pistol grip, but falls short in terms of comfort and recoil mitigation.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate for the price. The polymer is solid, but lacks the refined feel of more expensive materials. The weight is negligible, adding very little to the overall firearm.
The ergonomics are… an acquired taste. The pistol grip provides a more compact profile, but the grip angle and texture might not suit everyone. There is a learning curve involved in adapting to the pistol grip configuration, especially with heavier loads.
Durability & Maintenance
The NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88 should last a reasonable amount of time with moderate use. The polymer is resistant to scratches and impacts, but it’s unlikely to withstand extreme abuse. Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down after each use is sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88 itself doesn’t offer any direct customization options. However, it opens the door to using any pistol grip compatible with AR-15 platforms. You can swap out the basic grip for a more ergonomic or textured one.
The adapter is compatible with various sling attachment points that can be mounted on the shotgun receiver. Beyond that, customization is limited. The basic design focuses on functionality over modularity.
Pros and Cons of NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88
Pros
- Extremely affordable, making it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Simple installation, requiring minimal tools or gunsmithing skills.
- Provides a more compact profile, improving maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Compatible with Mossberg 500, 590, and Maverick 88 shotguns.
- Allows for customization with aftermarket AR-15 pistol grips.
Cons
- Increased felt recoil compared to a traditional stock.
- Basic polymer construction may not be as durable as more expensive options.
- Some users report needing an additional backing plate for secure installation.
- May not be comfortable for extended shooting sessions due to recoil.
Who Should Buy NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88?
The NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88 is perfect for:
- Budget-minded shooters who want to experiment with a pistol grip configuration.
- Home defense enthusiasts looking for a more compact and maneuverable shotgun.
- Those who are comfortable with increased recoil and are willing to practice with the new setup.
Who should skip this product?
- Shooters sensitive to recoil.
- Those seeking a high-end, durable, or feature-rich stock upgrade.
- Anyone unwilling to invest time in adapting to the altered shooting dynamics.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A high-quality AR-15 pistol grip that fits your hand comfortably.
- An additional backing plate, if one is not included, to ensure a secure fit.
- Recoil-reducing ammunition or accessories to mitigate the increased felt recoil.
Conclusion on NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88
The NCStar Pistol Grip Stock Adapter Black Polymer for Mossberg 500, 590; Maverick 88 offers a budget-friendly entry point into the world of pistol grip shotguns. It’s a simple and straightforward modification that can improve maneuverability in close quarters. However, the increased recoil and basic construction are significant trade-offs.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. It’s a very inexpensive way to test the waters with a pistol grip configuration. I would recommend it with reservations. Be prepared for increased recoil and consider investing in a better grip and a backing plate.
If you’re on a tight budget and curious about pistol grip shotguns, the NCStar adapter is worth a try. Just go in with realistic expectations and be prepared to adapt your shooting technique. Give it a shot; you might find it’s the perfect, inexpensive upgrade you’ve been looking for.