Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag Review

The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag Made a Bold First Impression

The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag promises a simple solution: a stable platform for mounting optics on older Mossberg shotguns. These workhorses, the 500AS (pre-1997), 600, and 88, are known for their reliability, but lacked integrated scope mounting options from the factory. This base, manufactured by an undisclosed entity, aims to bridge that gap, offering a low-cost way to modernize these classic shotguns.

My journey to this unassuming poly bag began with a well-worn Mossberg 500AS that my grandfather passed down. It’s a fantastic shotgun, reliable as the day is long, but my aging eyes struggled with the bead sight, especially when turkey hunting in low light. The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag seemed like the perfect, budget-friendly solution to bring a red dot sight into the mix.

The base arrived in, as the name suggests, a simple poly bag. Initial impressions were mixed. The aluminum felt surprisingly lightweight, almost too lightweight, and the black finish was utilitarian, bordering on drab. Holding it in my hand, I wondered if something so inexpensive could truly provide a solid, stable mounting platform.

Compared to some of the more robust, railed receivers I’ve seen on modern shotguns, this felt like a different world. I considered a more involved gunsmithing approach to have a Picatinny rail permanently installed. Ultimately, the low price of the Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag and the promise of a quick, no-gunsmithing install won me over. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the reality would live up to the potential.

Real-World Testing: Putting Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag took place at my local range. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, requiring only a few basic tools. The base attached to the receiver using the existing pin holes, which eliminated the need for any drilling or tapping.

Initially, everything seemed secure. However, after about 25 rounds of 12-gauge target loads, I noticed the base had slightly shifted. I tightened the screws, and continued shooting. This happened one more time during that initial range session, which left me questioning the long-term stability of the mount.

Extended Use & Reliability

After the initial range session, I decided to put the Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag through a more rigorous test. I used it during a weekend-long turkey hunting trip. The conditions were less than ideal, with light rain and mud.

The base held up better than expected. I attribute this to carefully tightening the screws before each day of hunting. There were no further instances of the base shifting during the trip. However, the finish did show some signs of wear, particularly around the edges, indicating that it might not be the most durable coating.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth. Compared to a more permanently installed rail, it’s easier to remove for thorough cleaning of the receiver. Ultimately, while it performed adequately, I still harbor concerns about its long-term durability compared to higher-end, more robust mounting solutions.

Breaking Down the Features of Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag

Specifications

• Compatibility: Designed for Mossberg 500AS (pre-1997), 600, and 88 shotguns. This limits its use to specific, older models.
• Material: Aluminum construction. The aluminum is lightweight, but may sacrifice some durability compared to steel.
• Finish: Black. The black finish is basic and provides minimal corrosion resistance.
• Mounting Style: Top mount. It attaches to the receiver using existing pin holes.
• Rail Type: Weaver-style. This allows for mounting a wide range of optics with Weaver-compatible rings.

These specifications are critical for understanding the base’s limitations and intended use. The aluminum construction keeps the cost down and adds minimal weight, but the basic finish and mounting style reflect its budget-friendly nature.

Performance & Functionality

The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag performs its primary function: providing a mounting platform for optics. However, its performance is somewhat limited by its design and construction. It’s accurate enough for close-range applications like turkey hunting or home defense, but I wouldn’t trust it for precision shooting at longer distances.

The biggest weakness is its tendency to shift under recoil. This requires constant monitoring and tightening of the screws. This detracts from the overall user experience. It meets basic expectations, but it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price. The aluminum is machined adequately, and the edges are relatively smooth. However, the lightweight nature of the material gives it a somewhat flimsy feel.

The base adds minimal bulk to the shotgun. It doesn’t significantly alter the ergonomics. There is virtually no learning curve. Installation is simple and straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag‘s longevity is questionable. The thin aluminum and basic finish suggest that it may not hold up well under heavy use or in harsh conditions. Regular maintenance is required. This involves checking and tightening the screws to prevent shifting.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag is compatible with any Weaver-style scope rings. This allows for a wide range of optics to be mounted, including red dot sights, holographic sights, and low-power scopes. There are no other significant customization options available.

Pros and Cons of Top Mount Base Moss 500AS/600, 88 Black, Poly Bag