First Thoughts on the Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag
The Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag from Mossberg is a seemingly simple, yet crucial component for any shooter looking to mount optics on their beloved shotgun. It promises a secure and stable platform, converting your shotgun into a versatile setup for various applications. The product aims to offer a straightforward solution, enhancing accuracy and expanding the functionality of compatible Mossberg shotguns.
I was recently working on customizing a Mossberg 500 for a multi-gun competition where both slugs and buckshot would be used. The factory bead sight just wasn’t going to cut it for accurate slug placement at longer distances. I needed a reliable, low-profile base to mount a red dot optic for faster target acquisition and improved precision.
The Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag arrived in, well, a poly bag. Initial inspection revealed a clean, black finish and a solid, one-piece design. The base feels surprisingly sturdy for its size, suggesting that it can withstand the recoil of a 12-gauge shotgun.
Compared to other options like saddle mounts, which can sometimes add bulk and affect the shotgun’s balance, this top mount base seemed like a more streamlined and less intrusive solution. I also considered a Picatinny rail, but the Weaver style of this base suited the red dot I intended to use, and seemed like it would offer a lower profile. My initial thought was that the Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag would be a great fit.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity of the design and the promise of a solid mounting platform were appealing. If it delivered on its promise of a secure and stable optic mount, it would be well worth the modest investment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag came during a practice session at my local shooting range. I mounted the base on my Mossberg 500, attached a red dot optic, and proceeded to zero it at 50 yards. The weather was slightly damp, but visibility was good.
Installation was simple and took only a few minutes using the existing receiver mounting holes. Once tightened, the base felt rock solid, and the optic sat securely in place. During the first few rounds, the base maintained its zero consistently, even with the heavy recoil of 12-gauge slugs. However, after about 20 rounds, I noticed that the screws had started to loosen slightly.
The initial experience was positive, but the loosening screws raised concerns about long-term reliability. I used some thread locker to secure the screws. After applying the thread locker and re-tightening the screws, the base remained secure for the rest of the session.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the next few months, I used the Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag extensively during practice sessions and a local 3-gun match. I put approximately 200 rounds of various loads through the shotgun. The base has proven to be much more reliable after applying thread locker.
After ensuring the screws were properly secured, the base has shown no further signs of loosening or shifting. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the base itself. Cleaning is simple: I wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use.
Compared to my previous experiences with other mounting systems, the Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag, once properly secured, has outperformed my expectations. It provides a stable and reliable platform for optics without adding unnecessary bulk or weight to the shotgun. The use of thread locker is absolutely essential for ensuring it stays in place during extended use.
Breaking Down the Features of Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag
Specifications
The Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag is a one-piece base designed specifically for compatible Mossberg shotguns (models 472, 479, 679, and 80). It utilizes a Weaver style rail, which is compatible with a wide variety of optics. The finish is black, providing a sleek and understated look that blends well with most shotgun finishes.
The fact that it’s a one-piece base is important because it minimizes the potential for movement or flex compared to multi-piece designs. The Weaver style rail provides ample space for mounting optics, and it’s a widely supported standard. The black finish is durable and helps to protect the base from corrosion.
Performance & Functionality
When properly installed and secured with thread locker, the Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag performs its job admirably. It provides a stable and secure platform for mounting optics, allowing for improved accuracy and faster target acquisition. It offers a low-profile mounting solution, keeping the optic close to the bore axis for optimal performance.
The only weakness I found was the initial tendency of the mounting screws to loosen under recoil. This can be easily addressed with the application of thread locker. Once that issue is resolved, the base meets and even exceeds expectations for its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag is surprisingly good, considering its price. The materials feel durable, and the finish is clean and consistent. The base is lightweight and doesn’t add significant weight to the shotgun.
It is very user-friendly, with a simple installation process that requires no specialized tools. However, you must have thread locker available. No learning curve is involved, and the base is ready to use as soon as it’s installed and the optic is mounted.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag should last for many years. The durable black finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, and the one-piece design minimizes the potential for mechanical failure. Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down after each use.
The base is not intended to be repaired; in the unlikely event of damage, it would likely need to be replaced. However, given its robust construction and affordable price, replacement would not be a significant expense.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag itself doesn’t come with any accessories. However, it opens up a wide range of customization options by allowing the user to mount various optics, such as red dot sights, holographic sights, or scopes. The Weaver rail is compatible with a vast array of mounting rings and bases from different manufacturers.
While it is not directly compatible with Picatinny rails without an adapter, the Weaver rail is close enough that some Picatinny-style accessories may still fit securely. The ability to easily mount different optics transforms the shotgun from a close-range weapon to a more versatile platform suitable for a wider range of applications.
Pros and Cons of Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: Offers excellent value for money, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
- Solid One-Piece Design: Provides a stable and secure platform for mounting optics, minimizing movement and flex.
- Weaver Rail Compatibility: Compatible with a wide variety of optics and mounting rings, offering versatility in customization.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward installation process, requiring no specialized tools (aside from thread locker).
- Low-Profile Design: Keeps the optic close to the bore axis, optimizing performance and maintaining a sleek profile.
Cons
- Screws May Loosen: The mounting screws have a tendency to loosen under recoil, requiring the use of thread locker for secure installation.
- Poly Bag Packaging: The packaging is very basic; it would be nice to see more robust packaging.
Who Should Buy Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag?
The Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag is perfect for hunters looking to improve the accuracy of their slug shots, 3-gun competitors needing a versatile shotgun platform, and home defense enthusiasts seeking to enhance their shotgun’s target acquisition capabilities. It’s also suitable for casual shooters who want to experiment with different optics on their Mossberg shotgun without breaking the bank.
Those who should skip this product are shooters who require a Picatinny rail system without the use of adapters. Also, those unwilling to use thread locker may find the base unreliable.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality thread locker to ensure the mounting screws remain secure under recoil. Other useful modifications include an improved trigger and aftermarket stock for better ergonomics.
Conclusion on Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag
Overall, the Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag is a solid and affordable option for anyone looking to mount optics on their compatible Mossberg shotgun. While the initial issue with loosening screws is a concern, it can be easily addressed with the application of thread locker.
The price is definitely justified, given the stability and versatility it provides. It is a simple upgrade that significantly enhances the functionality of the shotgun.
I would personally recommend the Top Mount Base Moss 472/479/ 679, 80 Black, Poly Bag to anyone seeking a cost-effective and reliable optic mounting solution for their Mossberg shotgun. Just remember to grab some thread locker! Upgrade your Mossberg today!