Let’s Talk About Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500
The Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500 promises to modernize and enhance the classic Mossberg 500 shotgun. Strike Industries is known for its innovative and aggressive designs, and this handguard is no exception. It boasts a lightweight aluminum construction, ample M-Lok slots for accessory attachment, and an ergonomic design for improved handling. As someone who has spent years customizing and optimizing tactical shotguns, I was eager to see if this handguard lived up to the hype and offered a significant upgrade over the factory forend.
My journey to finding the Strike Industries Valor of Action started with a simple desire: to add a weapon light to my trusty Mossberg 500. The factory forend offered limited options, and I wanted a more streamlined and versatile solution. I was particularly drawn to the M-Lok system for its direct attachment capabilities and the promise of a more solid and reliable mounting platform.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the fit and finish of the handguard. The 6061 aluminum felt incredibly solid, and the hard anodized finish gave it a rugged and durable appearance. The semi-matte black finish was clean. The weight felt balanced. Compared to the Magpul MOE forend, which is a polymer offering, the Strike Industries piece feels significantly more substantial and premium. I also considered the Mesa Tactical forend, but its price point was considerably higher, making the Strike Industries a more attractive option given my budget.
Initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive; the Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500 looked and felt like a significant upgrade. I was excited to install it and see how it performed in the field, hoping it would provide the enhanced customization and improved handling I was looking for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Strike Industries Valor of Action equipped Mossberg 500 was at my local shooting range. The weather was fairly typical for the Pacific Northwest – damp and overcast. I wanted to test the handguard’s ergonomics and accessory mounting capabilities during some rapid-fire drills. The improved grip was immediately noticeable, and the added length provided a more comfortable and secure pumping action.
I had attached a Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount 2 weapon light and a Magpul AFG (Angled Fore Grip) to the M-Lok slots. Both accessories mounted securely and felt solid throughout the shooting session. The slightly textured surface provided adequate grip even with damp hands. The front and rear hand stops seemed to work well to prevent my hand from slipping too far forward. I experienced no malfunctions or issues with the handguard during the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard has proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve taken the shotgun on several hunting trips, through dense brush and adverse weather conditions, and it shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The hard anodized finish has held up exceptionally well, resisting scratches and abrasions. Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe down with a CLP-soaked rag after each use is all it takes to keep it looking and functioning like new.
Compared to my previous experiences with the stock polymer forend, the Strike Industries handguard is a significant improvement in terms of durability and functionality. The polymer forend always felt a bit flimsy, especially with accessories mounted. The Strike Industries handguard provides a much more rigid and stable platform. The Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard has exceeded my expectations, providing a noticeable enhancement in handling, customization, and overall reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500
Specifications
The Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500 is specifically designed for the Mossberg 500 12-gauge shotgun. It is constructed from durable 6061 aluminum with a hard anodized finish for enhanced corrosion and abrasion resistance. The handguard features 10 M-Lok slots for maximum accessory customization. It weighs approximately 8 ounces, adding minimal weight to the overall shotgun. Its overall length is 10 inches.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the handguard’s performance and user experience. The aluminum construction provides a rigid and durable platform for mounting accessories. The hard anodized finish ensures long-lasting protection against the elements. The 10 M-Lok slots offer a wide range of customization options, allowing users to configure their shotgun to their specific needs.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard excels in its primary function: providing a stable and versatile platform for accessory mounting and improved handling. The M-Lok slots allow for direct attachment of accessories, eliminating the need for bulky Picatinny rail adapters. The added length of the handguard provides a more comfortable and secure grip, especially for larger hands. The front and rear hand stops help to prevent the hand from slipping too far forward or backward during rapid firing.
One potential weakness is that the aluminum construction can get cold in extremely cold weather, requiring the use of gloves for comfortable handling. Overall, the handguard meets and exceeds my expectations, providing a significant improvement in both functionality and ergonomics.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. The contoured cuts and semi-matte finish give it a sleek and aggressive appearance. The lightweight aluminum construction ensures that it doesn’t add excessive weight to the shotgun. It is comfortable to hold. There is no learning curve. It is easy to grip.
Durability & Maintenance
The Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard is built to last. The 6061 aluminum and hard anodized finish provide excellent resistance to corrosion, abrasion, and impact damage. Regular cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a CLP-soaked rag after each use. The handguard should last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard is highly customizable thanks to its 10 M-Lok slots. Users can attach a wide range of accessories, including weapon lights, foregrips, lasers, and sling mounts. The M-Lok system is compatible with accessories from many different brands, providing a wide range of options. Strike Industries also offers a variety of M-Lok compatible accessories, such as hand stops and rail sections.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500
Pros
- Durable 6061 Aluminum construction with a hard anodized finish.
- 10 M-Lok slots for maximum accessory customization.
- Enhanced length for easier pump action and improved grip.
- Aggressive and modern design that enhances the shotgun’s aesthetics.
- Relatively easy installation process.
Cons
- Aluminum construction can get cold in extremely cold weather.
- Slightly more expensive than some polymer forend options.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500?
The Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500 is perfect for tactical shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and hunters who want to enhance the functionality and customization options of their Mossberg 500 shotgun. It is also a great choice for those who value durability and a modern aesthetic. Anyone looking to modernize their Mossberg 500 will appreciate this handguard.
Those on a very tight budget or who primarily use their shotgun for recreational shooting may find the price point a bit high. If you’re perfectly content with a basic polymer forend, you might not need this upgrade.
A must-have accessory to pair with this handguard is a quality weapon light, such as the Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount series. Also consider a vertical or angled foregrip for improved ergonomics and weapon control.
Conclusion on Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500
The Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Mossberg 500 is a well-designed and highly functional upgrade for the classic Mossberg 500 shotgun. Its durable aluminum construction, ample M-Lok slots, and enhanced ergonomics make it a significant improvement over the factory forend. The price is justified by the enhanced durability, functionality, and customization options it provides.
I would definitely recommend this handguard to anyone looking to modernize and optimize their Mossberg 500. If you’re ready to take your shotgun to the next level, the Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard is an excellent choice. Upgrade your Mossberg 500 today!