Let’s Dive into Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip For 6-Position Stock
The Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip For 6-Position Stock aims to provide improved control and handling for one of the most popular shotgun platforms. Marketed as an easy-to-install upgrade, this grip promises to enhance the user’s experience with their Mossberg or Maverick shotgun by allowing the attachment of a 6-position adjustable stock. I’ve spent a decade fine-tuning shotguns for law enforcement entry teams and home defense; a reliable and ergonomic grip is paramount.
My primary goal was to improve the versatility of my Maverick 88 for various shooting scenarios. The factory stock is serviceable, but lacks adjustability for different body types and shooting stances. I chose the Tacfire grip based on its affordable price point and seemingly straightforward installation, hoping to add a level of customization without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing, my first impression was…underwhelming. The polymer felt lightweight, almost too lightweight, and the finish wasn’t as refined as I’d hoped. It felt functional but lacked the robust quality I’ve come to expect from aftermarket shotgun components. I’ve used similar pistol grip adapters from Magpul and Mesa Tactical in the past; the Tacfire felt noticeably cheaper in comparison, though significantly less expensive.
Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic rather than excited. The low price made me wary, but I was hoping for a solid, functional upgrade that could justify the cost. I was eager to see how it would perform under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip For 6-Position Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip on my Maverick 88 and headed to my local shooting range. I tested it during a series of drills involving rapid target acquisition and transitions. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions for testing the grip’s ergonomics and handling.
Right away, I noticed the forend release was significantly tighter than before. Just as the user review stated, it required noticeably more force to manipulate. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was certainly an annoyance that slowed down my reloads.
The pistol grip itself felt decent in hand, providing a more aggressive angle compared to the factory stock. However, recoil management felt slightly less effective with the pistol grip alone compared to a traditional stock, something common with most pistol grip configurations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and about 200 rounds of various loads, the Tacfire grip has held up okay. There are some minor scuff marks on the polymer, but nothing significant. The forend release issue persists; it hasn’t improved with use.
I’ve cleaned the grip several times, and it’s a simple process – just wiping it down with a CLP-soaked rag. Compared to my experiences with higher-end grips, the Tacfire feels less confidence-inspiring, but for light to moderate use, it seems adequate. It hasn’t broken or cracked, but I question its long-term durability under heavy use or extreme conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip For 6-Position Stock
Specifications
The Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip boasts the following specifications:
- Manufacturer: Tacfire
- Color: Black
- Gun Make: Mossberg/Maverick
- Gun Model: Mossberg 500, 535, 590, Maverick 88
- Condition: New
These specifications matter because they determine compatibility and influence the overall feel of the shotgun. The grip is designed to fit a wide range of Mossberg/Maverick shotguns, offering versatility to users.
Performance & Functionality
The Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip performs adequately in terms of providing a platform for attaching a 6-position stock. However, the tight forend release and the absence of a rear plug are significant drawbacks. While it allows for the use of an adjustable stock, enhancing customization, the overall experience is somewhat compromised by these issues.
The strengths are its affordability and basic functionality. The weaknesses include the aforementioned forend release issue and the open rear, which detracts from the overall aesthetics and could potentially allow debris to enter the receiver. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly option, but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The polymer feels durable enough for light use. It is lightweight, which can be both an advantage and disadvantage, depending on user preference.
The grip is relatively user-friendly, with a straightforward installation process. However, the tight forend release and the unfinished rear detract from the overall ergonomic experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The grip appears reasonably durable for the price, but I have concerns about its long-term resistance to wear and tear. It’s easy to maintain; a simple wipe-down is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip primarily facilitates the attachment of a 6-position adjustable stock, allowing for length-of-pull customization. It doesn’t come with any additional accessories.
Compatibility with other aftermarket accessories is limited, as it mainly serves as an adapter for the stock. It should be compatible with any standard AR-15 style buffer tube and stock.
Pros and Cons of Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip For 6-Position Stock
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious users.
- Enables the use of a 6-position adjustable stock for improved customization.
- Relatively easy to install, requiring minimal tools.
- Provides a pistol grip configuration, which some users may prefer for maneuverability.
- Lightweight polymer construction.
Cons
- Forend release may become excessively tight after installation.
- Lacks a rear plug, leaving an open hole in the grip.
- The polymer quality is noticeably lower compared to higher-end options.
Who Should Buy Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip For 6-Position Stock?
This grip is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking to experiment with a pistol grip configuration and adjustable stock on their Mossberg 500/590/535 or Maverick 88. It’s also suitable for casual shooters who don’t subject their firearms to heavy use.
Those who should skip this product include individuals prioritizing premium build quality and flawless functionality. Also, tactical users or those relying on their shotgun for home defense may find the Tacfire grip’s shortcomings unacceptable.
A must-have modification would be finding a suitable plug for the rear opening. Also, be prepared to potentially modify or replace the forend if the release becomes too problematic.
Conclusion on Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip For 6-Position Stock
Overall, the Tacfire Mossberg 500/590/535 & Maverick 88 Shotgun Pistol Grip offers a budget-friendly entry point into the world of shotgun customization. However, potential buyers should be aware of its limitations. The value proposition is debatable; while the price is attractive, the compromises in quality and functionality may not be worth it for all users.
Personally, I would recommend it with reservations. If you’re on a tight budget and willing to accept some minor inconveniences, it can serve its purpose. However, if you can afford to spend more, I’d strongly suggest investing in a higher-quality alternative. Consider this a “get what you pay for” product.